In response to Mr. John R Bell, I would like to clarify that I did not say it was legal for motorcycles to ride in the designated bicycle lanes. The whole point of my letter was that it is not legal, and how I was completely surprised by the attitude coming from some motorcyclists indicating that they did not care that it was illegal, they are entitled and will continue to break the law with no regard for cyclists who are supposed to be in the bike lanes.
I would like to reassure Mr. Bell that I am fully aware of the type of cyclists he is referring to, and that I strive to ensure I ride in the bike lanes, not on the sidewalks, and that I let pedestrians know that I am coming. I agree that there are some very rude cyclists out there who ride wherever they choose at insane speeds and they refuse to use their voice or bell to warn pedestrians that they are coming.
I hope that this clears up the misinterpretation of my letter. And if you see a motorcycle in the bike lane, take their license number and call the local police to report them. They are breaking the law.
Connie Thompson
Victoria