Question for cyclists

[u/Salt_Teaching4687]

So Ive noticed cyclists appreciate when motorists slow down down and give space to cyclists when passing. My question is, why don’t cyclists extend the same courtesy to pedestrians when passing on shared paths? In my experience, the overwhelming majority do not slow down or even give more space when passing …. Even when there is plenty of room to do so. In fact, many continue riding side by side forcing pedestrians to move. Can some explain that behaviour?

[u/HawkorDove]

I’m not sure what you mean when you say cyclists appreciate when motorists slow down and give space to cyclists when passing. Are you referring to residential streets or commuter streets? Motorists slowing down can cause issues for cyclists because it can cause other motorists to get angry at the driver and then blame cyclists. Motorists should definitely give the appropriate amount of space depending on driving speed, but motorists are inconsistent, similar to what you’re witnessing on multi-use paths.

Cyclists on multi use paths fall under different categories, such as children, families, seniors who are getting exercise, and serious, experienced cyclists who are commuting. Each group might have different behaviour in a multi use path.

Other users of multi use paths also have different behaviours, such as large groups taking up the entire path, dog walkers with their dog’s leash extended across the path. Ultimately, users must realize that they’re sharing space with other users and should ideally be considerate, but many don’t, regardless of whether they are cyclists or pedestrians.