In response to Mr. Akin's letter, I agree, in part, with his referenced letter writer who suggested bicycle registrations ("Biking has benefits," Our Readers' Views, Aug. 21). Worse yet, I propose licensing riders.

Mr. Akin likely follows all the rules and wears all the needed protective equipment, but he's probably aware that not everyone does. Far too many automobile drivers endanger bicyclists because they are distracted or in tight traffic situations or in some cases even act deliberately, but it is impossible to count the number of times I have had bicyclists cut in front of me, ride on the wrong side of the road and make other maneuvers creating dangerous situations.

Requiring registration of bikes, especially the powered ones, seems reasonable, as does requiring instruction, testing and licensing of riders. And, as with motorcyclists, motorized bike riders should be at least 16 and required to wear a helmet. Kids as young as 5 or 6 speed down my neighborhood street on motorized bicycles, scooters, skateboards and unicycles with no helmet, paying no heed to stop signs, traffic or their peril. Where are their parents?

In this busy, complicated world, we all need to be more vigilant. But let's not create more animosity by taking sides.