Pedal power rukes OK

By Jason Moore IF Majorca seriously wants to become a mecca for cyclists it must start building the necessary cycle lanes because the mixture of pedal power and cars on island roads is a recipe for disaster. Obviously, this is a type of tourism which can help the island economy but really plenty of work needs to be done to ensure the safety of cyclists and drivers. I must also point out that cyclists must also obey the rules of the road, probably more than even motorists. I have watched in horror at our pedal powered tourists trying to enjoy a cycle ride along main island roads which are already overcrowded. The cycle track along the Paseo Maritimo is suited for your weekend rider but not for the more ambitious would-be Tour de France racer. With pedestrians milling around also I think you can safely that it is dangerous to say the least. It would be a sensible idea in the new road building programme to earmark an area solely for cyclists. A couple of metres either side would make things alot safer. This obviously makes sence and probably would also remove some of the controversy over the programme. The local authorities could also spend time and energy on drawing up cycle routes away from the main roads. WITH Majorca's roads already over-burden cyclists should not be allowed to use main roads especially at rush-hour periods. Legislation is needed which must be enforced by the police. I get the impression that there is little or no planning for cyclists. They simply arrive and then take off almost at their own peril. I must self like nothing better than a Sunday morning cycle ride but I have come to the conclusion that the island is simply not equipped.