Do cyclists have a bad reputation?
Of course we do.
Thanks to those idiots who run stoplights and stop signs, weave unexpectedly in traffic, or ride fast on the sidewalk with no concern or consideration for pedestrians, and in general ride unsafely.
When you're riding a bike in the street, the laws consider you a vehicle, and you are subject to the same rules of the road as any car.
If you are on the sidewalk, you are considered a pedestrian, and have to follow the rules for pedestrians.