Philly bike bill causing upheaval within cycling community

Bicycle groups are strongly opposing a proposed change to bike regulations in Philadelphia. 

Councilman David Oh’s bill began as a way to increase the fine for parking in bike lanes.

Randy LoBasso of the Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia said the group has issues when it comes to where cyclists can ride when there isn’t a designated lane.

“In general, bikes right now are allowed to ride with traffic and take the lane and we feel that’s the safest option as is,” he said.

Oh disagreed, saying cyclists should move over to let cars and trucks pass.

“Use your common sense and your judgment to allow everyone to get to where they are going,” he said.

Oh’s bill appears to contradict Pennsylvania’s safe-passing law requiring motorists to allow a 4-foot buffer when overtaking a cyclist.

A hearing on the bill is expected in the fall.