Originally Posted by FBinNY

Not commenting about the quality or methodology of the survey, but I understand the results.

Over last 50+ years I've noticed cyclists becoming more assertive (for better or worse, not a value judgement). I can see how drivers might associate that assertiveness with cyclists kitted out that way, and therefore focusing their resentment selectively. This isn't any different that how we, as cyclists, make judgements about drivers based on the type of car or pickup, so the only surprise is that anybody is surprised.

On a side note, I found it interesting that they said that bicycle advocates were arguing against helmet mandates. Years ago, as helmet use was becoming mainstream, the only people talking helmet mandates were self appointed bike advocates. This is one reason I parted company form bike advocacy years ago, and I remember many times where I'd be in the minority arguing against mandates at public meetings. OTOH- this came out of Australia, where there's been a national helmet mandate for decades, so maybe the shoe is on the other foot down there.