Originally Posted by
CrankyOne
The bicycle rider SHOULD be able to ride that fast through that area. Motor vehicles do.
This is a rather myopic viewpoint that pretends to seek "equality" when in reality it is seeking preferential treatment.
The truth is that motor vehicles in Manhattan are CONSTANTLY having to make concessions. They cannot travel as fast as they like, often have to slow down for hazards, hit huge potholes, etc. Just as motor vehicles have to make concessions in the interest of safety, it is reasonable to expect bicycles to do likewise. If everyone acted with only their self-interest in mind, it would not be a pretty picture.
This is not meant to excuse the behavior of the jay-walkers and the person who opened their door.