Freestyle Cyclists rally in support of helmet choice for bike riders
A MELBOURNE lobby group is on a mission to make helmets optional for cyclists, saying the laws requiring them is “overkill”.
North West
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A LOBBY group is on a mission to make helmets optional when riding a bike.
Freestyle Cyclists are holding a “helmet optional ride” in support of helmet choice on March 18.
Moreland woman Isobel Todd will be taking part in the ride.
“I’m doing it because this has been an issue I’ve been following for a very long time,” Ms Todd said.
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“A rethink of the helmet laws should boost cycling in Australia.
“There are definitely situations where it’s dangerous to ride without a helmet but there are plenty of occasions where it’s (safe) and I think giving the adults a choice when they wear a helmet is important.”
“Cycling without a helmet is safe in situations that involve separated infrastructure, bike paths and quiet roads with low speed limits.”
The recent Queensland Parliamentary Enquiry into cycling recommended helmet free choice for over sixteens on cycle paths, shared paths, footpaths and roads with a posted speed limit of 60m/hr or less.
Freestyle Cyclists president Alan Todd said his group wanted Australia to join the rest of the world and move beyond helmet fines.
“The bicycle is internationally recognised as a healthy and sustainable form of transport,” Mr Todd said.
“Everyone agrees that we have healthier people and more liveable cities if we leave the car at home and use a bike instead, but if you do this in Australia, and don’t wear a crash helmet, you will be fined.
“Riding a bike is a safe activity when carried out at sensible speeds in decent conditions so we believe a crash helmet for all occasions is overkill.”
“The practice of fining people for this healthy and benign activity makes no sense.”
The ride will kick off outside the Green Park Cafe, 815 Nicholson St, Carlton North, at 11am and will end at Abbotsford Convent by noon.
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