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York University has linked with Cycle Alert to kit its Transdev Unibus fleet and student’s bikes out with radio transmitter devices, designed to let the bus driver know when a cyclist is approaching.
With a large proportion of the University’s students choosing to cycle as a mode of transport, the educational facility jumped at the chance to be the first in the country to adopt the system.
The Cycle Alert system has three elements: a unit that is fitted to the bicycle (or worn by a cyclist on their person or helmet), sensors that are fitted to the HGV or other vehicle, and a cab-mounted device to alert the driver. The three units work in sync to form a communication network between all parties, alerting the driver – with maximum advance notice – of a cyclist in proximity.
The device alerts the driver when a cyclist comes within two metres of the vehicle.
Fiona Macey, travel plan co-ordinator, University of York, said: “We are thrilled to be working in partnership with Transdev Unibus and the City of York Council to be the first UK city to pioneer the use of Cycle Alert on our University bus fleet. The University is committed to promoting sustainable modes of travel and Cycle Alert will be a huge benefit to our cyclists and city wide.”
A surge in cycling in York has been attributed to better cycling networks over the years, with the district having replaced train-tracks with Sustran cycle routes and providing both an extensive network of off-road cycle paths and on-road cycle lanes.
