RACV backs calls for new bike lanes

Alex de Vos
The state’s motoring giant has backed a call for cycling lanes on the region’s most dangerous roads.
RACV chief engineer Peter Daly said improving cycling conditions around the region amid growing safety concerns was “important”.
Last year Geelong sporting identity Rex Sizeland died after a collision with a car while cycling at Breamlea. In October Torquay cyclist Ron Thompson was also killed after colliding with a truck on Anglesea Road.
This week Geelong Cycle Club identified 10 local roads as the biggest threats to riders.
The hotspots included Torquay’s Horseshoe Bend Road, Barwon Heads’ 13th Beach Road, Paraparap’s Hendy Main Road and Mt Duneed Road.
Mr Daly urged riders to “keep the pressure” on City of Greater Geelong, Surf Coast Shire and State Government to build bike paths along the region’s popular cycling routes.
“If it’s a legitimate cycling need then I’d certainly encourage local cyclists to advocate for improved conditions,” he said.
“No doubt it’s important (to provide safe cycling facilities) but it’s up to Vicroads and council as to which roads get upgrades.”
Geelong Cycle Club’s Jonathan Meadows welcomed the push for bike lanes.
“Ultimately, it would be great to have a good cycling lane on main roads,” Mr Meadows said.
But he believed cyclists should use their common sense when tackling the dangerous roads.
“Those spots mentioned are popular spots for bunch rides and are heavily used and have been for years and years,” he said.
“But riders have to use their common sense.”
Last month the Independent revealed about 400 people had signed a petition to build a bike path on Torquay’s Horseshoe Bend Road.
The push reignited a community drive for cycling lanes on the road after Surf Coast Shire failed two years ago to convince Vicroads to carry out the upgrade.