By JONATHON HOWARD
NOOSA cyclists caught riding more than two abreast on the road could be slapped with a fine as high as $113, according to Noosa Police.
But the fine could be as low as $45 for three or more riders travelling side by side, and police need to be on-site to nab offenders.
Jason Styles of Tewantin recently wrote to Noosa Today asking for clarification on whether cyclists could ride side by side on the roads.
In his letter to the editor, Mr Styles said the rule and trial law of a one-metre gap for motorists was fair enough.
“But does this mean they (cyclists) will ride single file and allow people to drive past safely,” he said.
“Is it still illegal to ride two abreast, maybe they should be fined $330 as well.”
Mr Styles even suggested a compulsory registration for cyclists and the use of rear vision mirrors.
Noosa Police Senior Constable Michael Phelan said the law stipulated cyclists could not ride more than two abreast and had to maintain a gap of no more than 1.5-metres between two riders.
“In the Noosa area there are several bike lanes which are indicated in white or yellow,” he said.
“Riders are required by law to ride within the white marked lanes and not stray outside these lanes.
“Where yellow bike lanes are indicated, such as Noosa Parade, riders and motorists are required to share the road.”
Sen Const Phelan said the issuing of an offence notice was up to the police officer.
“If a group of cyclists are seen to be obstructing a motorist in the lane, the fine could be as high as $113,” he said.
“However, if cyclists are more than two abreast but are not seen as obstructing motorists then the fine would be $45, but this is up the officer.”
Motorists are required to give cyclists a one-metre passing buffer and up to 1.5 metres on highways or where speed limits exceed 60km/h.
Have your say: Do you think cyclists are taking up too much room? Do you get nervous driving passed a cycling “pack”? Email your thoughts to newsdesk@noosatoday.net.au
