Cycling in Secondary v Primary position

I've seen some comments on YouTube about how cyclists "shouldn't be in the middle of the road" (when actually they are in the middle of the lane, or riding perfectly legally in the primary position). This is a short film comparing riding in the secondary position (close to the kerb) as opposed to taking the lane. In my experience taking the lane (or riding in the primary position where appropriate) is safer for all concerned.
Filming was done on the same day at the same time on the same stretch of road.

Category:

Education

Tags:

• cycle
• bicycle
• primary
• secondary
• car
• zappa

[thirteenfingers]

Good video - a brilliant illustration of just how much difference a stronger road position can make.

Now you just need to sort out that censored soundtrack and it'll be great.

[thirteenfingers]

Putting your life on the line to further the education and betterment of the drones in their steel coffins. Well done that man!

Years ago I got sick of being bullied into the gutter and onto the pavement by inconsiderate cars I decided to ride somewhat aggressively. I'd never heard of primary and secondary position, but always rode between strong secondary and primary. That combined with expecting every car to kill me led to FAR fewer scary moments and left room to escape the few I did get!

[leoncbs]

I don't think Wichita, Ks likes me. Because I try to be a vehicular cyclist not a pedestrian cyclist. It is my legal right to be in the lane not near the curb.

[leoncbs]

this is what I do in my city of Wichita. I ride my bicycle in the primary position which is safer. Thanks.

[cromcruaich]

Cycle in to work everyday on more urban roads and was wondering on this primary position stuff. You've captured it there in a nutshell. Many thanks

[Dershnof]

I dont have much of that..more dangerous passes than yelling and stopping.

[gffWillie]

Excellent video (and long time since heard zappa!). Today had serious road rage from driver who didn't like my primary position driving. he overtook, stopped car, got out and started shouting abuse ready for a physical encounter. i just overtook again. he then followed slowly behind me driving straddling the cycle lane which was now there. Eventually he gave up and drove past in main stream of traffic but attitudes to cyclists seem to have a long way to go!

[downfader2]

Boy have I had experience of dangerous overtakes today. Good video!