Cycling is a popular mode of transportation and recreation in many parts of the world, including Australia – but as you may have noticed, it is also a source of significant tension and conflict between cyclists and drivers.
Over the years, every time we post anything on our social media about cyclists, the comments section lights up with fury, swearing, hatred and wishes for physical harm to cyclists.
To help get to the bottom of the animosity some drivers feel towards cyclists, particularly the so-called 'Lycra brigade' of road cyclists, we’ve been diving deep into Reddit chats, forums, blogs, news and social media comments and surveys to get to a better understanding.
The 'Lycra Brigade' and Road Cyclists
Have you heard the term 'Lycra brigade'? It’s often used in a negative way to describe road cyclists who wear tight-fitting, brightly coloured cycling gear. These cyclists are frequently the target of driver frustration and aggression.
The animosity the face can be connected to a few different factors:
- Perceived arrogance and rule-breaking. Many drivers perceive road cyclists as arrogant and believe they frequently break traffic rules, such as running red lights or stop signs. This perception is often reinforced by the visibility of cyclists' attire, which makes them stand out more than other road users.
- Inconvenience and delays. Cyclists are often seen as an inconvenience to drivers, particularly on narrow roads where overtaking can be difficult. The frustration of being slowed down, even for a few seconds, can lead to aggressive behaviour from drivers.
- Territoriality. Roads are traditionally seen as the domain of motor vehicles, and some drivers view cyclists as intruders who do not belong there. This territorial mindset can lead to resentment and hostility towards cyclists.
Dehumanisation of Cyclists
The dehumanisation of cyclists has been studied in depth. Research finds that many drivers do not actually see cyclists as fully human – meaning empathy is often withheld. This dehumanisation can lead to increased aggression and dangerous behaviour towards cyclists.
- Dehumanising attitudes: Research from Monash University, QUT, and Melbourne University found that more than half of surveyed drivers did not view cyclists as fully human, often comparing them to insects like mosquitoes or cockroaches. This dehumanisation enables aggressive behaviour, as it reduces empathy and makes it easier for drivers to justify their hostility.
- Impact of safety gear: A study by QUT found that cyclists wearing safety vests or helmets were perceived as less human compared to those without such gear. This perception was linked to the visibility of safety gear, which can obscure facial features and make cyclists appear more alien.
- Psychological factors: The dehumanisation of cyclists is partly driven by psychological factors such as out-group bias and a lack of empathy. Drivers who do not cycle themselves are more likely to view cyclists as an out-group and exhibit less empathy towards them.
Extreme Hate on Social Media
Social media platforms often amplify hostility towards cyclists, with extreme comments and hate speech being common. Several factors contribute to this phenomenon:
- The anonymity provided by social media allows individuals to express extreme views without fear of repercussions. Additionally, social media algorithms often create echo chambers where like-minded individuals reinforce each other's negative attitudes towards cyclists.
- In Australia, there is a cultural bigotry towards cyclists that is often expressed openly on social media. Cyclists are frequently labelled with derogatory terms such as 'road toads' or 'pedalphiles (plus much worse),' and there are even anti-cyclist groups that celebrate road accidents involving cyclists and wish harm upon them.
- The media can also play a role in shaping public attitudes towards cyclists. Sensationalist reporting and negative stereotypes can contribute to the perception of cyclists as a nuisance or danger on the roads.
Addressing the Issue
Active measures need to be taken if we want to reduce the hostility between drivers and cyclists.
Education and awareness are the best places to start. Increasing awareness about cyclists' rights and responsibilities and promoting empathy toward them can help change negative attitudes. Educational campaigns that highlight the shared humanity of all road users can be effective.
Building dedicated cycling infrastructure, like bike lanes and paths, can reduce conflicts between cyclists and drivers. This infrastructure can provide a safer environment for cyclists and reduce the perceived inconvenience to drivers.
Laws that protect cyclists should also be strengthened and enforced, such as minimum passing distance laws, to improve safety and reduce aggressive behaviour from drivers. However, it is important to address any unintended consequences, such as increased road rage, through complementary measures.
Ultimately, however, we need a cultural change. Promoting a culture of mutual respect and understanding between different road users is essential. It could be achieved through community engagement, public campaigns, and policy changes that prioritise the safety and well-being of all road users.
The hostility some drivers feel towards cyclists is a complex issue with deep-rooted psychological, cultural, and social factors – but by understanding these underlying issues and taking proactive measures to address them, we can work towards creating a safer and more harmonious environment for all road users.
