What is a bikelash?

Bikelash is a term used to describe the negative backlash against cyclists and cycling infrastructure. This can include verbal abuse, physical violence, and even sabotage of bicycles and bike lanes. Bikelash can be motivated by a variety of factors, including:

* Perceived safety risks: Some motorists and pedestrians feel that cyclists are a hazard to their safety. This perception may be based on real or perceived incidents of cyclists breaking the law, riding recklessly, or behaving aggressively.

* Competition for road space: Cyclists and motorists often compete for the same space on the road. This can lead to conflict, especially in congested urban areas.

* Environmental concerns: Some people believe that cycling is harmful to the environment, particularly when compared to driving. This belief may be based on the fact that cycling produces emissions from brake pads and tires, and that cyclists' clothing can contain synthetic materials that can shed microplastics into the environment.

* Social prejudice: Some people simply have a negative view of cyclists and cycling. This prejudice may be based on stereotypes about cyclists being wealthy, elitist, or environmentally extreme.

Bikelash can have a number of negative consequences, including:

* Discouraging people from cycling: Bikelash can make people feel unsafe or unwelcome while cycling, which can discourage them from taking up the activity. This can have a negative impact on public health, as cycling is a healthy and sustainable form of transportation.

* Increasing traffic congestion: If people are discouraged from cycling, they may turn to driving instead. This can lead to increased traffic congestion, pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions.

* Making cycling infrastructure less safe: Bikelash can lead to sabotage of cycling infrastructure, such as bike racks, bike lanes, and traffic signals. This can make cycling more dangerous and less convenient, which can further discourage people from taking up the activity.

There are a number of things that can be done to address bikelash, including:

* Education and awareness: Educating motorists and pedestrians about the safety and environmental benefits of cycling can help to reduce negative perceptions of cyclists. This can be done through public awareness campaigns, school programs, and community events.

* Enforcement of traffic laws: Enforcing traffic laws equally for cyclists and motorists can help to ensure that everyone feels safe on the road. This can include ticketing cyclists who break the law, as well as motorists who harass or endanger cyclists.

* Investment in cycling infrastructure: Investing in cycling infrastructure can make cycling safer and more convenient, which can encourage more people to take up the activity. This infrastructure can include bike lanes, bike racks, traffic signals, and bike-friendly intersections.

By addressing bikelash, we can create a more welcoming and safe environment for cyclists, and reap the many benefits that cycling can bring to our communities.