Sidewalk cycling

[8][9] Cycling on sidewalks puts cyclists in direct conflict with pedestrians,[5] and undermines the principle of a reverse traffic pyramid.

[10] In contrast, sidewalks are designed for walking speed, and often have curbs and other obstacles (benches, signs, lamp posts, garbage cans) that make them uncomfortable or risky to cycle on.

[5] Cycling on sidewalks has been greatly reduced in places where streets have been redesigned with pedestrians and cyclists in mind.

It has been argued that original intent of the law was for children and "weak" cyclists to use the sidewalk, while adults still were expected to use the roadway for cycling.

Sometimes cyclists prefer the sidewalk to cycling in narrow bike lanes (which lack protection from cars).

[5] In cases where cycling on the sidewalk is permitted, there are rules and recommendations to ensure that pedestrians feel safe.