I commute to work on my push bike, have cycling insurance, and register and insure 3 vehicles. I think that means I pay my way to use the road. Something else to keep in mind is that a cycles required infrastructure and impact on the road pails into insignificance compared to cars, buses and trucks.

When I'm on my bike I'm not driving a car, motorbike or adding to the crowded public transport. SO, my lifestyle actually subsidises other road users.

I agree it's preferable that there's bike paths to ride on the whole way to work but there are gaps, we're technically not allowed on the foot path and at the speed I ride during heavy traffic I'm faster than the cars (takes longer to drive during peak hour). Still my preference is the bike path.

It would be better if more people rode bikes, it would ease congestion on the roads and on public transport until we get a government that spends money on infrastructure again.

(I don't wear lycra either.)