Image: European Transport Safety Council (ETSC).
Let’s spread the joy of bikes by sharing with care on our shared paths.
Imagine the joy of a cycle, the wind in your hair, the freedom of movement. Now, picture sharing that space with others – a parent pushing a stroller, someone navigating in a wheelchair, a child on a scooter, or a leisurely walker. Our actions can profoundly impact their experience.
Think about the feeling of being startled by a fast-approaching bike, the anxiety of limited mobility in a crowded space. By choosing to slow down, we’re not just following rules; we’re showing empathy and respect. A gentle ring of your bell, a friendly “Hello,” or a patient wait can transform an interaction. It’s about acknowledging each other’s presence and valuing everyone’s right to enjoy these shared spaces safely.
Just like drivers learning to give space to us on the road, slowing down if they need to, as bike riders we can make people feel comfortable or tense depending on how we cycle around them. A key part of bike lane courtesy is giving people lots of space when we pass. Although we may know that we’re in control as we pass close by someone, they don’t, and it can be scary for them. We need to give extra space so the person we’re passing feels safe.
Here’s a comment Bike Auckland received recently, shared anonymously with permission.
“I’m writing to check if the Northwestern Path is for bikes only? I was walking near St Lukes Road when I had a cyclist yell. It’s not the first time. Some people are really aggro with their bells too.”
The writer continued:
“I see people on bikes behave aggressively towards pedestrians on the shared path on Queen Street too. Some people just think they own the path and don’t slow down when there’s a pedestrian ahead. It gives cyclists a bad rep.”
Note: the Northwestern is a shared path for most of its length. With the large volumes of people riding bikes along it (especially at peak times) it can feel daunting, unwelcoming, and unsafe for people who would like to walk or run along it – and for some riders too! After advocacy from a walking school bus, Bike Auckland, and other locals, a section of the Northwestern from Bond street to Bright street (near Kingsland) was split into two separate parts: one for walking, and one for cycling. The renewed safety of the separated pathway allowed for the walking school bus to start up once again.
The pyramid of road safety priority
Remember the principle of the inverse pyramid of road safety priority. Those most vulnerable deserve the most protection and should be given priority. This is enshrined in law in some countries, though not yet in Aotearoa New Zealand. The principle here is – if you are going faster and will do more damage if you hit someone, it’s your responsibility to be safe around them. Pay extra attention and try to make them feel safe and comfortable using the space.
The most vulnerable such as pedestrians top the pyramid, then people on non-powered bikes and scooters, then e-bikes and e-scooters. (In my view, you could add children and those using mobility aids like walkers and sticks to the most vulnerable path users.)
To expand on this model, let me offer a reminder that vulnerability isn’t always visible, just like disability isn’t always visible.
The most obvious example is people who are just starting to cycle around Auckland. They aren’t familiar with the route, nor the customs, and they may need more reaction time to control their bike. (Let me take a moment to apologise to others for the near misses I had as a newbie biker!)
Another example which is more common than people realise is post-traumatic stress disorder or PTSD. Those with PTSD often startle easily – especially by a sudden noise like a bike bell right behind them. If possible, use your bell earlier to avoid mishap.
So many of us want to see a culture of active transport expand. Let’s cultivate a culture of kindness on our paths. Every time we choose to slow down, every time we offer a smile or a word of greeting, we contribute to a more welcoming and secure environment for our entire community. It’s about moving beyond simply sharing the path to connecting as fellow human beings enjoying our public spaces.
