I am afraid that I will have to respectfully disagree with your reader arguing that riding a bike on the footpath is sometimes the only option.
As a keen cyclist myself and a daily commuter to Manchester city centre, I would argue that as far as riding surface is concerned roads give by far a more pleasant and efficient way to get around town than the average muddy footpath encumbred with nettles and the occasional pedestrian.
Trafford roads are not the smoothest, no doubt, but nothing that some chunky tyres and padded gloves and saddle can't handle.
Then remains the issues with motorised traffic.
Yes, some drivers can be careless, some downright intimidating, dangerous and rude but the vast majority are careful and considerate. Moreover as an increasing number of people get on their bike to travel around town, statistics from the Cycle Touring Club (CTC) show that the roads are getting safer through a safety in number effect and an enhanced awareness of cyclists by drivers.
If these arguments are not sufficient, there is help to overcome lack of confidence for riding on the roads in the shape of Cycle Safety Training schemes which are run by a range of local instructors.
Find out about those through the CTC website, alternatively I am sure staff at Eddy McGrath on Station Road in Urmston will know of local training schemes.
Arnaud Garcon, Urmston
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