I think largely the problem is city based in UK, particularly London.
Though I live in Scotland I work some part of each week in London so commute by bike when there. There are a lot of red light jumping cyclists and, unfortunately it is a very visible activity. Cyclists are therefore an easy target for the media.
The UK is not particularly cycle friendly, motorists are generally ok but there is not the same sort of cycling culture as there is in mainland Europe and less awareness by drivers.
I've never had an issue coverng thousands of miles in France, Holland, Belgium or germany, but most weeks get cut up or put in danger by motorists in the UK.
Just to put in context, I've been a bike nut since 12 y.o, I used to cycle 6000 miles ayear, mostly commuting into Edinburgh, now commute in London, cycle when home in Scotland and also in France. So I have a bit of experience
