Safety of Bicyclists Is Two-Way Street

It was interesting to read Richard Beene’s column requesting motorists to be mindful of the safety and well-being of cyclists. The story also asks that cyclists ride safely and responsibly. All very applaudable, indeed.

Now let’s talk about cyclists’ use of multiple-use pathways in Huntington Beach. An alarmingly large number of cyclists daily ignore posted speed limits (10 m.p.h. maximum, 5 m.p.h. when pedestrians are present). These offending cyclists ride at speeds of up to 20 m.p.h. and more, weaving between pedestrians and other cyclists.

Last week I was struck from behind by a cyclist going 15 to 18 m.p.h., according to him. He wasn’t watching where he was going. It still hurts.

If cyclists want to go fast, then get out on the highway and take your chances with cars--your 20 m.p.h. versus the car at 55 m.p.h. Don’t be such cowards as to ride down a path of people on foot with your 20-m.p.h. dangerous speed, however.

STEVEN D. ANDERSON

Huntington Beach