AIBU to think drivers should do a cycle test before being allowed to drive?

[bicuriousgeorge]

Sorry thread about a thread but there are good and bad cyclists and good and bad drivers.
Unfortunately bad drivers are likely to do far more damage than bad cyclists.

Midnite This is really quite ridiculous now. I can ride a bike perfectly well but have no interest in doing so. I also compete at a national and international level in my chosen sport, as well as participate in another physical activity for enjoyment. Bike riders don't have the monopoly on physical fitness

No, they don't, but there are also a shocking number of people out there who really do barely go outside other than the few steps from house to car and back again. There are also people who aren't encouraged to do any physical activity from childhood, and who have very poorly developed motor skills, and I'm sure that is linked to their lack of understanding re things like preferring not to drive, being outside in bad weather, etc..

I agree with you re the cycling - I think cycling requires very specific build and skills to be good at competitively, and although I've competed internationally in triathlon, I've always been a stronger runner. Also strong at showjumping and downhill mtb, and there must be a crossover there. Its surprising how many people who are good at one sport can pick up another quite well without much training. I notice that amongst some of the showjumpers.

A lot of people seem to have gone straight from "doesn't ride a bicycle" straight to "must therefore drive everywhere"

Have to admit I drive to races in my X5 with my bike in the boot...kind of admitting to all kinds of clichéd stereotypes in a number of different areas there!