Using the full lane can sometimes be the most courteous course of action and actually relieve motorist and cyclist stress in some situations. Consider the following scenario which I have seen on numerous occasions. Narrow two lane road with oncoming and overtaking cars approaching a cyclist at about the same time. This cyclist, trying not to upset the motorists, is riding the far right edge of the road. When seeing him up ahead, the overtaking motorist continues on at speed because it looks like there may be enough space for him to pass. Only when he is just about to overtake the cyclist (with an oncoming car in the opposite lane) does he realize that there is not enough room. He then jams on the brakes and gets all upset.

When the cyclist is clearly taking up more space in the lane, it becomes apparent to drivers behind him much earlier that they will have to change lanes or slow down, giving them plenty of time to make adjustments in a safer and less stressful manner.

A lot of driver complaints are that cyclists are unpredictable, and / or that they fear hitting us, which of course none of them want to do. As cyclists it is our duty to be predictable and do everything we can to make it easier for everyone to share the road safely. Sometimes this means taking the lane, and sometimes it means motorists may have to wait for a few seconds. If this makes them overly upset they should not be on the road.