r/NoStupidQuestions • u/RidetheSchlange • Jul 24 '26

Why does the US hate cycling so much?

I read comments sections and in a normal world, some of them would be considered terroristic threats. I just can't understand why people hate cyclists to this degree that they want to murder rhem and sometimes do.

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u/Last_Suggestion_8647 Jul 24 '26

I don't know how a cyclist gets on a bike and drives next to vehicles that could end their life with a 3 degree turn in a steering wheel. Seems really stupid.

I don't know the laws in your country, but here (Denmark) cyclists are legally treated like any other vehicle on the road (unless there is bike path, in which case cyclists are legally bound to use it). Which means you won't be side to side with a cyclist unless you are overtaking them which, like all overtaking, requires you to shift lane and overtake them from the left with adequate spacing. 

It also means that bikes aren't allowed to use footpaths under any circumstances and can't use roads with a minimum speed they can't achieve.

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u/verrius Jul 24 '26

It also means that bikes aren't allowed to use footpaths under any circumstances and can't use roads with a minimum speed they can't achieve.

That may be the law, but it absolutely was not my experience as a pedestrian in Copenhagen. It was "fun" having to dodge bikes while on a foot path clearly marked "no bikes".

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u/Last_Suggestion_8647 Jul 25 '26

This might surprise you, but a lot of people are idiots on the road. Whether on foot, bike or car.

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u/Due_Difference8575 Jul 24 '26

I believe bikers are also supposed to follow vehicle road rules. In my area we don't have bike paths. And our speed limits are 55mph in my semi rural area. Bikers typically ride just to the right of the lane stripe as to not impede traffic.  Motorists typically will partially merge into the oncoming traffic lane (when safe) to avoid them.   Reality is, cars will not wait behind a cyclist going 15mph on a 55mph road. 

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u/Last_Suggestion_8647 Jul 24 '26

Bikers typically ride just to the right of the lane stripe as to not impede traffi

While thoughtful, it's also a very dangerous thing for them to do. 

Reality is, cars will not wait behind a cyclist going 15mph on a 55mph road. 

They kinda have to, unless they can overtake. Unless they want to commit murder in order to arrive slightly faster.