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As cycling fever sweeps the State, and excitement builds for Thursday’s launch of the Santos Tour Down Under, SA Police are training their sights on cyclists and motorists during Operation Safe Cycling which will run throughout the Tour. Superintendent Bob Gray, Officer in Charge of Traffic Support Branch, said the fortnight-long Operation is focused on ensuring rider safety, as well as compliance. “A significant number of sometime-cyclists hop on their bikes around this time of year, inspired by the Tour Down Under”, said Supt. Gray. “Operation Safe Cycling is all about ensuring that cyclists of all skill levels, from Sunday riders to pros, are safe on the state’s roads. “Cyclists and motorists alike can expect to encounter a highly visible police presence at Tour Down Under staging locations, and on popular cycling routes along the Adelaide coastline. “Police will take appropriate action against both drivers and cyclists who fail to comply with the Australian Road Rules. Among other offences, we will be looking out for motorists who fail to maintain a safe passing distance, and anyone driving or parking illegally in bicycle lanes. “Cyclists have an important role to play in ensuring their own safety on the road. You can ride no more than two abreast – even if in a large group. Exercise courtesy, and remember that sharing the road is a two-way street.” During 2018, 7 cyclists were killed on South Australian roads, and 38 sustained serious injuries. Nearly 90 per cent of crashes occurred in metropolitan Adelaide. The operation concludes on Sunday January 20.

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Safer cycling in motion