April 1 2011

The installation of seatbelts on push bikes becomes compulsory from today.

The initiative has long been sought by the Cycling Safety Committee of the New Zealand Licensing Board, and spokeman Bruce Bikeman said that today was a watershed one for his organisation.
"We have been seeking this since April 1 last year and to now have it in place is fantastic.
"Far too many people are injured when they become separated from their bicycles.
"Seat belts will fix that," Mr Bikeman said.
Converting a standard bike will cost $60, although subsidies will be available to anyone displaying a semblance of common sense.
Mr Bikeman is aware of opposition to the move, but said it was no different when cycle helmets became compulsory.
"And look, no one complains now. And obviously not everyone has to wear a seatbelt.
"Posties will be exempt, and so will cyclists with broken legs."
One of the strongest opponents of the move, Iva Spoken, yesterday described it as ridiculous.
"I mean, how are you supposed to dismount? This will create more accidents.
"What will they think of next ... ashtrays on bikes?"
Mr Bikeman said there would be courses to help cyclists learn to dismount.
"As for the ashtrays, that's just dumb."
Anyone wanting more information should contact 0800 277451.
That's 0800 April 1.

Pictured: Official bicycle seatbelt fitter Ross Butterick tests the belt settings for rider Penny Farthing.