Originally Posted by
AlmostTrick
Untrue. I control close passes every day I'm on the bike, as did you (back when you rode) and do most cyclists on this board. I can't totally eliminate close passes, but damn near.
So much unwarranted fear from the rear.
You are partly correct. FYI...here are my "rules" for "controlling" a traffic lane.
1. I have to be moving at or near 20 mph to even consider controlling a lane.
2. The posted speed limit must be AT MOST 35 mph. Unless...
3. I am descending a mountain pass DOING the speed limit or exceeding it. Then I will act like I am on a motorcycle.
Otherwise, I stay far right. If I get buzzed, that's my problem. Perhaps I should reconsider the route or my choice of transportation. In my opinion, controlling a traffic lane under any other circumstances is rude, selfish, and dangerous for everybody concerned including innocent motorists traveling in the opposite direction.
So yes, I have controlled many lanes in my time under some very strict parameters. Mostly in the city grid where everybody is moving at 25 mph or less.
The only reason more cyclists don't get hit from behind while hogging a travel lane is because most motorists do not want to damage their vehicles or be delayed by hitting us. Otherwise, I believe many drivers would be perfectly happy to steamroll me.