Does Japan need more bicycle-friendly roads???

[MTR]

Does Japan need more bicycle-friendly roads??ﾂ
Do segregated cycle lanes help reduce risks associated with cycling??☝

 

[nice gaijin]

I hated having to ride on the sidewalk because I was more afraid of getting hit by a careless driver than running into a careless pedestrian. On the bright side, it made me a very cautious cyclist, though it doesn't seem to have the same effect on others. I imagine that likewise, bicyclists imposing themselves on the roads must be a huge nuisance to drivers.

Japan could certainly be more bike-friendly. It could also be more wheelchair-friendly.

 

[Dogen Z]

The other day, I saw a 10 yr old kid with his equally youngish sister riding on a busy roadway rather than using the sidewalk. I thought, "What brave and courteous kids, I should be more like those kids. "

Coincidentally, an informative article dealing with this issue just appeared in the Japan Times.

Let's Bike

http://search.japantimes.co.jp/cgi-bin/fl20090927x1.html

 

[Dogen Z]

In answer to the OP's questions:

>Does Japan need more bicycle-friendly roads??

It would be great to have more bicycle paths like in Belgium and other parts of Europe, but building them takes time and money. I like the articles idea of 30 kph roadways, though.

>Do segregated cycle lanes help reduce risks associated with cycling??

As the article mentioned, this is not an answer. I especially hate illegally parked cars and trucks.

 

[Chidoriashi]

I just think some places need softer curves for cyclists who would rather not go head to head with the cars, but still want a smooth ride.

 

[Akakubisan]

I have a feeling that any bicycle lanes made would be overrun by trucks, cars and taxis parking in them.
So we would still be dodging people opening doors and pulling over in front of us with no warning.