Madam,

Whilst endorsing the sentiments expressed by Reuben Hayward in his letter of 5 May (Drivers are impatient, rude and aggressive to cyclists’), I worry that reports of encounters with a few aggressive drivers could deter budding cyclists from taking to the road.

I ride several thousand miles a year on Ceredigion’s roads. In my experience the majority of drivers exercise due care when approaching cyclists. Some of the best are commercial drivers whose livelihoods depend on good and safe driving.Sadly, as Reuben notes, a minority drive badly. To these I have three things to say.

When you become more experienced you will find it’s very difficult to average more than 40mph legally in Ceredigion, even by driving aggressively. I can think of few appointments worth risking life and limb to arrive to on time, particularly if the life and limbs are not yours. To ensure timely arrival the answer is simple: allow enough time for your journey.

Please note that rule 163 of the Highway Code requires that you give as much space to cyclists when overtaking as you would to any other vehicle. There is no requirement for cyclists to ride in the gutter, or in single file (unless the road is particularly narrow). In the interests of their own safety, cyclists are strongly advised to ride at least a metre from the verge.

In case you are inclined to shout some pearls of wisdom through the car window at cyclists as you pass (yes, it happens!), take it from me that these are usually unintelligible. The recipients might be forgiven for thinking they are also unintelligent.

Potential cyclists choosing, out of fear, not to cycle will do nothing to improve motorists’ manners. The more folk that take up cycling, the more accustomed drivers will become to their presence. Most cyclists are also drivers. If more drivers became cyclists they would appreciate how it feels to be on the road without the protection of a car body, air bags and seat belt. The roads would be safer for all, drivers’ health would improve and the environment that we share would be cleaner; a win-win-win.

If you lack the confidence to start road cycling, join one of the local groups catering for beginners. Get on your bike and enjoy the ride!

Yours etc

John Gee

Capel Dewi

Aberystwyth.