If you search the forum, you will find various threads on "Unicycling
and the law" and that type of thing. The law varies from country to
country, and from state to state, or province to province, so there is
no universal answer except to use common sense.
My rule of thumb is: if you look like a cyclist, and act like a cyclist,
you will be treated like a cyclist. If you look like a pedestrian and
act like a pedestrian, you will be treated like a pedestrian.
You must always bear in mind that you are the unexpected. You might
frighten pedestrians, or you might irritate motorists. The onus is on
you to avoid coming into conflict with other people who are going about
their normal business in a legitimate way.
I tend to act as follows:
Back lanes and quiet roads: Coker or 28, with cycle helmet and, where
appropriate, fluorescent top. Ride sensibly, with plenty of margin for
error, and dismount if in any doubt at junctions or crossings.
Cycle paths: pretty much the same.
Pavements/sidewalks: OK on a 24. Always give way to the pedestrians.
Dismount if in any doubt.
I have ridden a 24 with very short cranks on the road. It attracted
hostility from the less highly evolved motorists.
Too much safety equipment can give a bad impression. I think commuting
or road riding requires a helmet and wristguards. I think if you were
armoured like a knight of old, you'd attract adverse reactions.
And if a police officer or other person in authority stops you, don't
try to give a clever legalistic answer. An apology and a smile will
keep you out of trouble more often. Look like you're meant to be there,
look like you're riding safely, and look like you're being courteous and
considerate, and you should be OK.
--
Mikefule - Roland Hope School of Unicycling
Everyone should be fatuous for 15 minutes.
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