Sydney has been called one of the most hostile cities for cycling.  Many motorists continue to be frustrated sharing the road with cyclists. But according to Sydney Lord Mayor Clover Moore in her address to the NSW Parliament in June 2010, increasing the number of cyclists on our roads could actually decrease traffic congestion.

“The 1 per cent of inner-Sydney trips already taken by bicycle result in 25,000 fewer car trips every day.  If people commute by bike for shorter distances they provide more capacity on the already overcrowded services and speed up journeys for people who have to drive,” she said.

So if cyclists are helping to ease the congestion for motorists and improve the trip for commuters, what is it that motorists find so frustrating?  Have cyclists made you late for work, or caused a distraction?

Many motorists who are also cyclists argue that riding their bikes on the road have made them better car drivers.  Some cyclists have suggested that experiencing a cycling journey through Sydney’s traffic should be a compulsory part of getting a drivers licence.

What has been your experience with sharing the road with cyclists?  Do you have any tips for safely sharing the road with them?  Would you be happier if cyclists had their own lanes?