Cyclox - Local Cycling Campaign

Cyclox is a local cycling campaign for Oxford, probably similar to many local cycling campaigns.
As a general rule I don’t join any political parties or pressure groups, but, decided to join Cyclox for a few reasons. There leaflet has many good common sense ways to improve cycling in Oxford - better facilities, safer roads, lobbying for better standards of driving, and also trying to improve the image of cyclists by promoting safe cycling techniques. You feel that their goals are quite achievable and taking part might make a real improvement to cycling in Oxford - something I enjoy a lot. (see pics of Oxford cycling)

Main Aspects of Cyclox

• Cycle Parking - It is hard to get suitable places to lock a bike in Oxford. It is estimated nearly 3 times as many bikes try to park in the city centre as their are racks. In the past few years I have noticed an increase in the number of bike racks - hopefully this will continue to increase
• Cycle Network - There are some good local networks of cycle paths, hopefully more will come.
• Bikes and Buses - As the leaflet suggest, many including myself have been overtaken aggressively by buses. Sometimes they pass so close, they almost touch you. Cyclox tries to work with bus companies to change driving perceptions.

• 20mph Speed Limit. As a motorist and cyclist, I think on balance a 20mph speed limit on residential roads is a good idea
• Accident blackspots. Some areas are notorious accident blackspots for cyclists. Often poor road design is at fault.

Advice for Cyclists

from Cyclix

• Practise looking over right shoulder
• Be careful passing near trucks and buses. Don’t pass HGVs on the inside
• Cycle safe distance from kerb.
• Always use lights at night
• Don’t ride on pavements (cycling on pavements)
• Don’t jump red lights. (cycling through traffic lights)
• Don’t let them steal your bike.

Links

• Cyclox
• Cycling in Oxford - 50 pictures