A ten-point agreement between me, a cyclist, and you, someone who needs four wheels to get around (trucks, buses, micros and motorcyclists – your time too will come):
One: Despite any pretension to the contrary, on the road we are equals.
Two: When in doubt, remember: yes, I am riding my cycle because I choose to do so.
Three: I will leave as much space in the roadway as possible, but I will not get off of my cycle to let you pass.
Four: Horns are no substitute for a) prudence, b) civility or c) brakes.
Five: Keep in mind the fact that, in most heavy-traffic situations, I’m actually faster than you. Allowing me to go first is thus just good flow management – and I’ll reciprocate when the roles are reversed.
Six: Based on number four, if you cut me off unnecessarily I will do everything in my power to return the favour immediately. If you’re planning on turning quickly, just wait the additional few seconds behind me.
Seven: If you are in the wrong lane, that means that you are in the WRONG LANE – neither high speed, nor loud sounds, nor flashing lights nor generally acting like a jerk make for right of way when you’re in the wrong lane.
Eight: Oh, you’ve noticed that I am fitter and more energetic than you are, not to mention less of a blowhard? So have I. Oh, you’ve noticed that people can stand behind my cycle and not cough and wipe their eyes? So have I.
Nine: Take note of the fact that I am not enclosed in steel and plastic as you are – rather, I am open to the elements, and highly damageable.
Ten: Not being enclosed in steel and plastic, I can hear you coming from a very long ways away – no reason to blast me with your horn, unless you’re horny.
Bonus: We will both continue to respect the egg-delivery bicyclists as the saints of the roadway.
A necessary lesson in manners and common sense for all drivers – love the article. Well done!
Eleven: I may pull over for chai, puri or cane juice sold from another cycle, but will indicate my intention to do so by slowing down and — when prudent — using hand signals.