Every UpRider has a story. Gareth’s involves a driver who seemingly had more money than sense: a £300,000 Aston Martin. Out on a short evening ride, he was cut off by the luxury car, just one example of the abuse and unwanted attention he says cyclists face more and more on the road.
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Every UpRider has a story. Here is Gareth’s.
What happened prior to this incident and why do you record your ride?
I was out on a short evening 40km ride. I film my rides for safety, in case I ever have an incident, so it’s basically a dash cam. I’ve done a lot of riding this year and have noticed that the level of abuse and unwanted attention from drivers and pedestrians alike has increased significantly. Filming my rides means I can provide evidence of that kind of verbal abuse or intimidation.
When do you feel most vulnerable as a cyclist?
When travelling through towns or main roads
What do you think are the most important things that can be done to improve safety for cyclists on the road?
Cars are getting bigger and wider, and the majority now have flat, high fronts. There seems to have been an influx in SUV-type vehicle purchases, yet the roads are staying the same width.
I don’t think it’s realistic to improve infrastructure to the same levels as in Europe, but more initiatives like Operation SNAP would certainly send a message to drivers who find it difficult to share the road. There has to be more accountability.
I also see a lot of hatred and unacceptable comments about cyclists on social media. As a cyclist, it makes me feel sub-human, and I’m genuinely concerned about the trajectory this is taking. Like any other form of discrimination, I think there should be consequences that hold people accountable.
I now have a rear-facing radar and light, as well as a front-facing camera, and I feel safer with them. I wouldn’t ride on the roads without them.
Did you report your incident? What was the reporting process?
Yes. I uploaded footage to the South Wales Police portal for Operation SNAP. It took about 10 minutes, and I had to answer some questions about the ride.
What is your advice for other cyclists?
Invest in a radar.
Invest in a camera, like the Cycliq Fly12 Sport.
Don’t lose your cool in any confrontation.
If you’ve had an unacceptable close call, report it.
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