Let’s talk about something that every cyclist has experienced: those “helpful” comments from drivers that make us want to pedal faster just to escape the conversation.
While most drivers are perfectly reasonable people (many cyclists drive cars too), there’s still a persistent stream of misconceptions that just won’t go away 😡
Here are nine things cyclists are tired of hearing, along with why these arguments hold about as much water as a punctured water bottle.
1. “You Don’t Pay Any Road Taxes!”
Ah, the classic “road tax” argument… it’s like claiming you own the ocean because you bought a boat. Here’s the thing: road maintenance is funded through general taxation, which means everyone contributes, regardless of their chosen mode of transportation.
Besides, if we’re really going to talk about road damage, a bicycle causes about as much wear and tear as a determined squirrel.
2. “Why Aren’t You Wearing Hi-Viz Everything?”
Because sometimes we’d like to arrive at our destination looking like a normal human being rather than a walking traffic cone. While visibility is important, the suggestion that cyclists should look like a mobile disco to be “safe” is a bit much.
Good lights and reasonable reflective gear are plenty; we don’t need to dress like we’re directing aircraft on an aircraft carrier.
3. “Get Off the Road… Use the Sidewalk!”
This suggestion usually comes from the same people who would complain if they saw a cyclist on the sidewalk. In most places, it’s actually illegal to ride on the sidewalk, and for good reason: sidewalks are for pedestrians.
The road is where bikes belong, and yes, that means sometimes drivers might need to practice their patience for a few seconds.
4. “You’re Making Me Late!”
Because those 15 seconds spent safely passing a cyclist are definitely what’s making you late… not the 10 minutes you spent in the drive-through getting coffee. Studies show that cyclists typically add minimal delay to journey times in urban areas.
In fact, in many cities, cyclists often reach their destinations faster than drivers during peak hours.
5. “Real Adults Drive Cars”
This one’s particularly amusing, especially when you consider that many high-end bikes cost more than a used car. Choosing to cycle isn’t about being unable to “adult”; it’s often a conscious decision based on health, environmental, or practical reasons.
Plus, there’s something wonderfully liberating about bypassing traffic jams while getting a workout.
6. “You’re Taking Up The Whole Lane!”
Sometimes taking the lane is the safest option, especially when the road is narrow or there are hazards to avoid. It’s not about being difficult… it’s about staying alive.
Think of it this way: would you rather spend a few extra seconds behind a cyclist, or risk being responsible for an accident?
7. “All Cyclists Break The Rules”
Yes, some cyclists run red lights or ignore stop signs. Some drivers also text while driving, speed, and park in bike lanes. Bad behavior isn’t exclusive to any one group.
The difference is that a cyclist breaking rules usually puts themselves at risk, while a driver doing the same can endanger everyone around them.
8. “It’s Too Dangerous to Cycle Here”
The irony of this statement being shouted from inside a vehicle that’s contributing to said danger is apparently lost on some people. If cycling seems dangerous, perhaps we should focus on making roads safer for everyone rather than discouraging cycling altogether.
Better infrastructure and more cyclists on the road actually make cycling safer for everyone.
9. “You Must Be Poor to Ride a Bike”
This might be the most out-of-touch comment of all. Many cyclists choose to ride despite owning cars, and some bikes cost more than a decent used car. Plus, when you factor in car payments, insurance, maintenance, and gas, cycling starts looking pretty smart financially.
Not to mention the free gym membership that comes with commuting by bike.
Final Thoughts
While these comments can be frustrating, they often come from a place of misunderstanding rather than malice. The best response is usually education… or sometimes just a friendly wave as you zip past them in traffic.
Remember, every person who switches to cycling, even occasionally, is one less car on the road. And that’s something every driver should appreciate.
