‘Hordes of reckless cyclists’ in Mallorca are speeding in middle of the road, blocking buses, and causing crashes, coach drivers’ union claims

The coach drivers' union in Mallorca has lodged a formal complaint regarding the alleged "reckless" behaviour of cyclists, claiming they are obstructing traffic, causing accidents, and creating unsafe conditions. This has led to calls for tighter regulations, potentially including time-based bans for cyclists on popular routes like the iconic Sa Calobra climb, with drivers citing daily stress and impossible working conditions.

This isn't the first time tensions have flared between various road users on the island, a perennial favourite for professional teams and amateur cyclists alike. Mallorca's stunning scenery and challenging ascents attract hundreds of thousands of riders annually, particularly during the spring training season. The proposed restrictions, if implemented, would significantly impact the island's cycling tourism industry, which contributes substantially to the local economy, and could set a precedent for other popular cycling destinations facing similar congestion issues.

Ultimately, this is a classic case of demand outstripping infrastructure, exacerbated by a lack of mutual respect. Expect more rhetoric than resolution, as the wheels of local bureaucracy turn slowly, if at all, on such a thorny issue.