10-17-2016, 06:02 PM
(10-17-2016, 12:21 PM)Markster Wrote: I don't think bringing over the flawed system of "no one obeys them anyway" speed limits is the answer here.
The flawed system already exists and that is what we have to work with. The point is whether a speed limit would influence behaviour. I expect it would for most people. Some people would disregard them, as they do on the road, but many and hopefully most, would moderate their speed in response. Whether it is below 20kph is somewhat less important than whether people, on the whole, slow down.
20kph is a pretty good speed for a MUP. Most people who are not experienced cyclists will naturally go at this speed or slightly slower without a downhill or tailwind. Stopping distance is good on a bike at this speed with little experience and handling is generally significantly easier than at higher speeds. Cyclists who want to push higher speeds are likely more experienced and have the skill and confidence to ride on the road. Cyclists with less experience have an option away from cars that offers lower speeds and higher safety. This seems like a reasonable compromise to me.