Cyclists fear motorists driving 'too close'

The poll by Pedalite was conducted at the UK’s National Cycle Show, Cycle 2007, at Earls Court last month. It found 61% of respondents complained that cars and lorries came too near, causing them to wobble, or throwing them off balance completely.

Over half of respondents were worried they would not be seen in the winter evenings by motorists (51%) and 21% felt that there was a lack of cycle lanes to ensure their safety, despite the fact that many more cycle lanes had been created over the past few years in major UK towns and cities.

Former track cyclist, Tony Doyle MBE, said: "Cycling has never been more popular, with thousands of people ditching cars and public transport for the financial, environmental and health benefits that cycling affords.

"However, our research clearly shows that many motorists are driving too close to cyclists making them feel insecure and in some cases, causing them to lose their balance. Whilst cyclists need to ensure they are as visible as possible on the roads, motorists need to look out for them and when they do spot them, ensure they give them as wide a berth as possible."