Alex Fletcher, a Perth lawyer and cycling enthusiast. Credit:Yakub Erogul Cyclists are not other people. They are just us – people (who own bicycles). 2.Cyclists are a "minority" First, I thought it wasn't on these days to have a go at people because they are a minority. Second, they're not. Lots of people ride bikes, including women and children.

3.Cyclists are a "lycra brigade" This is not true. People of all types ride bicycles, not just soldiers. People should also be allowed to wear whatever they want without criticism. 4. Closing roads for a charity bike ride is not ok What?

5. Reversing legal onus of proof I don't know enough about this to comment, though I am generally in favour of assessing each case on its circumstances. 6.Cyclists don't pay for the roads Yes they do. Many people who ride bicycles are employed and pay taxes. If they are commuting by bicycle then they are likely going to work in a job that is subject to Australia's tax system. Adults who ride bicycles also usually own cars and pay registration fees, stamp duties, insurances and so on.

Just because they own cars doesn't mean they have to drive them all the time. Exercise is good for you. 7.Perth is a car city and will stay that way Perth is definitely a car city. It will only stay that way if it doesn't follow the lead of most of the other cities around the world. 8. Roads are only for cars Roads are for vehicles. A bicycle is a vehicle. People who ride bicycles would usually rather have safe cycle paths to ride on, but these aren't always available.

9.Too much money is spent on bicycle paths This claim would benefit from some quick research on how much is spent on roads versus bicycle paths. 10.Cyclists shouldn't ride in the middle of the road I'm not an expert on cycling, but I have read that they do this because it is safer. It helps car drivers see them, and avoids the dangers of hitting opening doors from parked cars. Sides of roads also often have debris, grates and signs that can be fatal obstacles. If there is a good, safe cycle path available then I agree that cyclists should stick to the path so they don't slow down car drivers. I'll add that shared pedestrian and cycle paths are not very safe or convenient.

It seems clear that different modes of transport have different requirements. Perhaps there should be segregated walking, cycling and driving "paths" so that people can exercise their transport choices freely and safely? Ms Katsambanis acknowledges that 43 per cent of cyclists are afraid of riding on the road and implies they should stick to dodging pedestrians because Perth is a "car city". However she agrees that when they contribute to the upkeep of the roads via taxes then they will "deserve a seat at the decision making table". A bit more research on your piece would have probably revealed that being a car city is not desirable. It creates crippling and hugely expensive long term health, infrastructure and environmental problems. Even Los Angeles has changed its tune. Some more digging would have also made you aware that adults who own bicycles do pay taxes, so by your logic cyclists do deserve a say.

How about we channel our energies into creating transport networks that work well for everyone and advance Perth as an exciting and liveable city. Alex Fletcher is a principal at Fletcher Law in Perth and the director at Freewheeler Follow WAtoday on Twitter