Editor, The News:

Re: End the free ride for cyclists (Commentary, July 31).

As I watch a bewhiskered individual riding down the road on a bicycle that allows his knees to hit him in the chest as he balances another undersized bike beside him, I, too, wonder why the local council is considering tagging felines when the obvious place for licencing, as the above, pops up day after day.

As I watch and listen to spokespeople seek more riding lanes for bikes, privileges, etc., I wonder why they feel they are entitled with no financial obligation.

As I listen to the government beating about for more monies, I wonder why they aren’t thinking about going back to the old practice of bicycle licencing. Now you have the cash, the police have assistance in identifying property, and the owners stand a chance of recovering their stolen transport.

I have to agree with my friend Sandy Macdougall, leaders can go in odd directions. The ferries are gone, here is a new project that makes much more sense.

Lorne Riding

Maple Ridge

Get insured

Editor, The News:

Re: End the free ride for cyclists (Commentary, July 31).

Paula Carlson is right on.

As a pedestrian who has, for medical reasons, given up my driver’s licence and am dependent on TransLink or walking to get around, I have a lot of problems with bicycles on sidewalks. They are a law unto themselves.

I have been sworn at and forced off the sidewalk by cyclists flying up behind me, and with those coming towards me I am forced to stand off the sidewalk to let them pass. One cyclist wears full bicycle gear, but most do not even have a helmet.

On the road, cyclists have no consideration for the laws. One weaved in and out of the cars that were stopped for a red light and sailed right through. Another goes the wrong way on a one-way street. Even on the road many do not wear helmets.

I would like to thank Ms. Carlson for her articulate column. I have many times wanted to write my concerns but have not found the words to do so.

I believe cyclists must now be required to have a licence and insurance and be tested for their worthiness to be on the road.

I have witnessed inconsiderate and dangerous behaviour by cyclists and I think it is time they are required to be on the road and to follow all the rules of the road.

Insurance would cause cyclists to be more responsible for their actions.

Bobbi Clarke

Burnaby