cyclists, why so far from the kerb?

[BFG TERRANO]

I'm an occasional cyclist but mainly car driver. I've noticed just how far from the kerb they cycle? Why? Even on good quality surfaces they are getting about a metre from the kerb. This makes passing them 1 of 2 things. You either pass to close or wait for a gap in oncoming traffic and make a wide dash for it.

Is it just me or does this bug anyone else? Or, if your a regular cyclist can you explain why?

[BFG TERRANO]

Interesting views, thanks all I'm watching with interest.

[BFG TERRANO]

Gizmoish said:

This post is far too sensible and logical and therefore I shall ignore it entirely.

This is interesting! In A similar way to putting a track car on slicks with rock hard suspension on the road then moaning your having the sh#t shaken out of you?

[BFG TERRANO]

Thanks again for the different views, never again will I think cyclists are being rude or awkward. Every day is a school day as they say.

[BFG TERRANO]

Gizmoish said:

I never quite understand why these threads always end up moved to Pedal Powered. It would be far more sensible to leave them in GG to enable reasoned discussion between cyclists and drivers who may not understand cyclists' motivations.

I asked a question.... and started a crossfire! All said some very interesting points have been raised.

[BFG TERRANO]

Gizmoish said:

This has been an unusually sensible discussion thus far.

Fully agree. It's opened my eyes to The cyclists side of things.

[BFG TERRANO]

superkartracer said:

Only in the UK would a car driver ask such a question, on a Motoring forum where people are meant to be decent drivers

Fair one! I do regard myself as a decent driver, but then wouldn't any driver?
I'm 36 yrs old and so far have an accident and claim free history despite doing high mileage. That's the kiss of death for sure!

The high number of cyclists on the road and some of the odd behaviour I see some perform prompted my starting of this thread. I have certainly learned of some of the hazards they have to contend with.