Bayside Leader: Cyclists’ code of conduct wheeled out

The code, co-ordinated by CycleSport Victoria, Triathlon Victoria, the Cycling Promotion Fund and CycloSportif Victoria, features guidelines on how to ride safely in bunches.

It was devised in response to the death of elderly Mentone pedestrian James Gould in a “Hell Ride” incident in 2006.

The state bicycle co-ordination unit’s Sgt Arty Lavos said the code had been developed to ensure that cyclists rode “not only in an enjoyable and challenging manner, but a responsible one”.

“In the past few years, the popularity of competitive cycling among more competent riders on roadways such as Beach Rd has increased significantly,” he said. “Many risks can easily be avoided with common sense and care and this code of conduct is a behavioural blueprint for cyclists to show how they can ride safely.”

CycleSport Victoria general manager Steve Peterson said regular riders had to set an example.

“It is hoped that by instilling a sense of responsibility among the higher-end riders, they will set the standard for the greater majority,” he said.

Police will use their air wing and plain and marked vehicles to monitor riders along Beach Rd at weekends.

Obtain the code from http://www.vic.cycling.org.au