Cyclists were observed for their usual behaviour in managing typical roadside obstacles. Thirty cyclists rode a predetermined route on a marked cycleway to encounter utility access covers, a pedestrian island, a parked truck, a bridge that narrows the cycleway, drainage grates, rough and smooth sections of pavement, roadside debris and gravel. Trained observers assessed video footage for relative lane position, object avoidance, change of position into conflict with motor vehicle traffic, and whether or not the cyclists took extra caution and signalled intended changes when avoiding objects. Ten per cent of cyclists rode in conflict with motor vehicle traffic in the baseline conditions, suggesting a tendency for cyclists to occupy road space, even when an adequate space is provided. Particular objects in the cycle path prompt significant avoidance behaviour, such as loose gravel and raised round utility access covers. As the available cycle space decreased, the likelihood of cyclists riding in the motor vehicle traffic space increased. When confronted with a discontinuation of their path, cyclists moved purposefully into the traffic stream, typically without turning to look behind for motor vehicles. The factors influencing cycle lane use, avoidance and looking behaviour are discussed. (a).
Abstract