Pedal on Parliament 3 attracted an estimated 4,000 cyclists in an impressive rally from the Meadows to Holyrood this afternoon in Edinburgh.
The event gives a voice to those who want to see a Scotland where everyone – young or old, male or female, able-bodied or not – has the freedom to get about by bike if they want to. By doing so, they believe that they will make Scotland a healthier, wealthier, and above all happier place.
The idea is to push for: (1) proper funding for cycling; (2) cycling designed into Scotland’s roads; (3) slower speeds where people live, work and play; (4) integration of cycling into local transport strategies; (5) improved road traffic law and enforcement; (6) reduction of the risk of HGVs to cyclists and pedestrians; (7) a strategic and joined-up programme of road-user training; and (8) improved statistics supporting decision-making and policy.
The afternoon began badly when some participants were given an unfair head-start and police protection. Mark Lazarowicz MP and Alison Johnstone MSP led the peloton and had almost reeled them back in by the time they reached the Canongate.
Happy riding is all about concentration ...
... and paying attention to other road users.
Fashion isn’t everything, but a sense of colour helps.
This pair were perfectly coordinated.
It’s amazing what you can strap onto a bike with enough elastic rope.
It’s amazing what you can strap onto a bike with enough elastic rope.
This man hadn't realised yet what he’d just ridden through.
Meanwhile, this photo explains the first rule of tandems: Don’t let the maniac sit at the front.
Who says men can’t multi-task?
The Plod with pedals were in a relaxed mood ...
as were the hairy bikers ...
... in all shapes and forms.
A good time was had by all, without losing sight of the bigger picture.
