REAR LIGHTS FOR BICYCLES [To the Editor of the SPECTATOR.]
Sia,—Your correspondent, Mr. L. H. Irvine, is mistaken in thinking that I am " the mouthpiece of a small clique." I speak directly on behalf of the largest cycling club in the world,- with over 20,000 members on its books, and indirectly on behalf of every other cycling body in Great Britain, without exception. There is complete unanimity of opinion on the subject of rear lights amongst organized and articulate cyclists, and their " profession " of belief is based on long experience and firm conviction.
If, as your correspondent implies, he can always pull up his car within the effective range of his headlights—and every motorist should, of course, be able to do that—there is not the slightest reason why cyclists, pedestrians, horsemen, or the other inhabitants of the road should carry red lamps to reveal their presence.
As for the " deadly fear " of running down a cyclist in the dark, let your 'correspondent find comfort in the reflection that cyclists are concerned in only 4 per cent. of motor accidents, and that only 20 per cent. of motor accidents occur after lighting time.—I am, Sir,. &c.,
G. HERBERT STANCER, Secretary Cyclists' Touring Club. 280 Easton Road, London, .N.W.1.
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