Will they slow down?

SO BRITISH Waterways  is mounting a series of canal events to get bikers to slow down on towpaths. That should do it, or is it like holding firework events in Afghanistan and expecting the Taliban to attend and be converted to the peaceful use of explosives, writes Chip Smith.

Leisure cyclists are not a problem, whole families on bikes with the kids at the front being instructed by following parents, couples pedaling along in no hurry stopping at a pub for lunch.

Not safe

On weekdays from 0700 to 0900 and 1630 to 1800 near towns the towpath is not safe for walkers. Lycra clad racers flash by on their way to work or working-out, telling you not to obstruct the towpath and to keep your dog on a lead, and those few who do give two tings while doing 20mph expect the path to be cleared before the get there.

Apart from family groups I have never seen a cyclist dismount at a bridge hole or even where there are 'Cyclists Dismount' signs. At least one bike club (In Worcester) regularly route club time trial events along the towpath.

A clue?

At weekends despite more feet on towpaths speeding bike problems are far less, is that a clue?

The growing number of problem bikers are the self same riders who jump traffic lights and use zebra crossings as valid bike lanes and even if you could get them to attend an event they are not going to be impressed by learning how to double the time it takes for them to get to work or how the work-out artists can reduce their calorie usage.

No rules

I have not seen signs dedicated to cycling rules for the towpath—at most there are little notes added to information signs. Giving leaflets that boaters (who do after all pay for their use of towpaths ) can hand out might be useful and speed limit signs, but regular checks at the above times on town sections is the real answer. Offences would be: Speeding; Not having a bell; Not using a bell; Not dismounting at bridge holes or where directed to.

Penalties could be having the offender's bike clamped for half an hour and prosecution for repeat offenders.