An UpRider records the moment a ute driver makes strange attempts to intimidate their group of cyclists by racing to an intersection with a dangerous close pass and throwing threats while driving through a quiet street in the same area. This unnecessary commotion highlights that the road should be safe for everyone to use, as long as we respect each other.
What happened prior to this incident?
Prior to this incident we were just doing a training ride out with my mates on a quiet loop. The driver tried to intimidate us for an unknown reason. Then further up the road stopped with some other people and recorded us for another unknown reason. Some people are very strange.
When do you feel most vulnerable as a cyclist?
I actually feel most vulnerable when I am not riding with my Cycliq cameras as these are a great line of defence. From increasing my visibility to de-escalating a lot of altercations as you have constant video evidence recording through your whole ride. It’s amazing how quickly drivers calm down when you tell them ‘I’ve caught you in 4k mate’.
What do you think are the most important things that can be done to improve safety for cyclists on the road
The most important things to improve cycling safety is education about road safety and the mentality that people have when they get behind the wheel of a car. People think because they lock themselves inside of a 2-tonne metal box they are invincible and that it’s ‘funny’ to intimidate cyclists. Drivers forget that cyclists are humans too.
What do you think about UpRide?
UpRide is great as this creates a global map to see hotspots of incidents. I have seen there have been numerous incidents with the same cars in certain locations!
What is your advice for other cyclists?
I would greatly encourage other cyclists to invest into their safety on the bike. I’ve been using both the Fly12 Sport and Fly6 Pro while out riding and would not go for a ride without them. The new Fly6 Pro is a huge upgrade with a massive battery now, I have been able to do a few mega 6.5hr rides with the light and camera always on, and it’s still got battery left to spare! Knowing that I am constantly recording my rides calms me while out riding as I know if something happens that it’ll be on camera.
Want to share your story?
We’d love to hear from you. If you would like to share your stories and experience as a cyclist please reach out to the UpRide team.
