That’s why I’m sort of appalled that 17 cyclists, all in a group, apparently let themselves be ticketed for failure to stop at a stop sign recently: http://biketopeka.com/node/97

The quote from a cop that really gets me is “all laws apply equally to cyclists, as well as vehicles.” It may be written that way – but it doesn’t make sense. A “cyclists yield” sign would be appropriate in many places where motorists must stop. They have a great opportunity to make a stink about it, start a lawsuit, or something – and I hope they do!

Also, while waiting at a red, if there is no traffic and it is safe for a cyclist to cross – they should be allowed to. I believe this because when is a bicyclist most unstable – when first taking off. By giving the cyclist the ability to start prior to other traffic (if safe to do so) they are able to right any wobble that may be at the beginning of their mount.

As it stands, a cyclist must stop (standing wide stance for balance), then mount and push off (most unstable) at THE SAME TIME as traffic that has been stopped begins to move forward as well. I always feel that this traffic is much more likely to either turn into a cyclist or catch the cyclist with a mirror for example than if the cyclist is ahead of that traffic and the vehicles can better plan their pass. That’s my take.

But that’s a completely different rant than this – dug the idea of Critical Manners – made me laugh and I support it.