IN THE wake of the pilot project in Tampines to allow cyclists to cycle on pavements, there have been calls to add bicycle lanes to the road network.
However, taking into consideration the scarcity of land here, this is not a good policy to pursue.
The poor design of the extreme-left lanes of roads is a deterrent for cyclists.
There is enough room in this lane for cyclists and other vehicles, but the following are issues which make cycling difficult:
The material double-yellow lines are made of differs from tarmac, which is used for roads.
It is more slippery than tarmac when wet, and the fact that it is slightly raised makes it dangerous for cyclists.
Open drain holes are a hazard. Cyclists with thinner tyres will also find that their tyres can easily get trapped in the rectangular grating used to cover drain openings.
Tarmac that is not level with concrete kerbs pose a danger.
With the above in mind, cyclists would be safer if they kept to the middle of extreme- left lanes.
The space between the double- yellow lines and the kerb intended for cyclists cannot be used.
Could the authorities consider looking into the design of Singapore's roads to make them more conducive for cycling?
