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Gday SilentC. If as a cyclist i`m riding recklessly i expect to cop the consequences. Nudging 64 i have no need or want to act in that manner. I actually leave about 15 minutes earlier to ride to work (rain,hail or shine) not because it takes longer to ride but because i enjoy just peddaling along. As it happens i work 15 mins from my workplace so in any effect speeding isnt a need.And the majority of motorists aren`t a worry for me as most give a toot as they pass by.Oddly enough apart from the officer on the day no others have ever been remotely interested in calling me aside given the number who cruise that stretch. Now to those that enjoy cycling i thoroughly recommend the cycle i ride.And you dont need a tool kit if you get a puncture! Just a bottle of Slime,a liquid puncture preventitive/repair that instantly seals holes/splits up to 5mm & suitable for any bicycle.Good for two years you first deflate your tyres,squeeze in 50% of volume to each tube.Spin the tyres around,inflate & you`re on your way.Its that simple & quick. The fluid remains liquid but once you get a puncture the fluid zeros in on the puncture & instantly seals it. And in my case i need it as 60psi/ 32" tubes/tyres aren`t readily available.
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Absolutely. I'm not justifying the cop's actions, just giving you a possible explanation for why he chose not to turn a blind eye. I don't know if you've noticed but there has been a lot of argy-bargy in the media recently over cyclists and the perception that they are out there breaking the road rules all day, so the police have been conducting 'blitzes' on cycling offences and the whole profile has generally been raised.
To the letter of the law, you are required to wear a helmet and you are required to have a bell. Simple as that. It usually goes under the radar but the above is why I believe attention is being directed towards such petty things.
I don't necessarily support either law but they are what they are. Complain all you like but it will fall on deaf ears. Having your day in court is the only alternative you have and hopefully you will have a patient magistrate.
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Fronted court yesterday w/o counsel armed to the teeth with pages of info.Pled guilty with explanation & discuss."No need to discuss. You have current medical report?" Magistrate read through (verified) medical certificate. "Case dismissed.No costs.No record.Keep medical certificate on board cycle".