Cyclists riding in large groups should be more effectively regulated, according to a report from the Monash University Accident Research Centre.
The research followed the Victorian state coroner’s investigation into the death of a pedestrian who was hit by a cyclist riding in a large group.
The coroner’s report identified ‘bunch riding’ as a high-risk activity. Of particular concern was the inability of a large bunch riding at speed to stop safely at traffic lights.
Bunch riding involves large groups of cyclist riding two abreast.
The rides are often organised by cycle clubs and are most often scheduled for early mornings, particularly on weekends.
In professional cycling, bunch riding has aerodynamic benefits.
The front cyclists shield those behind them from wind resistance allowing the rest of the group to ride at the same pace but using less energy. Cyclists take turns at leading, allowing the whole group to go further and faster.
With the popularity of cycling increasing, the Monash report claims that many recreational cyclists are now emulating the bunch riding techniques of professional racing cyclists.
The Monash report identified three road rules that bunch riders most frequently disobeyed: running red lights, cycling more than two abreast and – in the case of very large groups – moving into the path of vehicles.
When travelling on roads, individual riders and groups are bound by the same rules as all other vehicles including stopping at red lights and stop signs.
In Western Australia cyclists cannot ride more than two abreast unless a third rider is overtaking. When riding two abreast there must a gap of no more than 1.5 metres between them.
The report also found that pedestrians and motorists often had little idea of how to interact with bunch riders.
It called for increased penalties for offences and more education on safe bunch riding practices. There was also a need to educate drivers about interacting safely with large groups of cyclists.
More research was needed to determine whether the size of bunch riding groups should be limited.
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