RAC survey shows fear of sharing road with drivers a major barrier for people considering cycling in Perth

A fear of sharing the road with drivers has emerged as a major barrier for people considering cycling in Perth, with a new survey showing fewer than one in seven feel comfortable riding on a busy street.

A new RAC survey of 330 people to be released on Wednesday revealed the biggest reasons for and against getting on a bike according to cyclists.

Almost a third (30 per cent) said Perth’s lack of safe, comfortable and connecting bike routes was a deterrent from riding more often.

Asked what would make them more comfortable on a busy street, 85 per cent said they wanted a separated bike path while 75 per cent wanted a protected bike lane.

RAC’s Will Golsby said the survey highlighted the need for increased investment for infrastructure as a key factor in increase cycling uptake and help manage congestion.

“WA has some good cycling infrastructure but it can be disconnected so driving becomes the default option, which contributes to congestion and diminished air quality,” Mr Golsby said.

“We need to make active travel an attractive option to entice people — of any age or ability — to walk or ride for short trips rather than take the car.

“WA’s population has been the nation’s fastest growing over the last two years so it’s crucial we work towards a mix of safe and diverse transport options to help relieve population-fuelled travel issues.”

Making neighbourhoods more pedestrian and cyclist friendly was also popular, with four in five calling for the change, while two third backed increasing government spending for active travel.

“The WA Government has earmarked around $78 million a year over four years but more investment is required to get us where we need to go,” Mr Golsby said.

“We’ve called for more government investment to help expedite works and enable more Western Australians to feel comfortable cycling.”