"In Italy, there's less respect for cyclists than in other European countries: I still ride a bike, both here and abroad, and overseas cars don't run you over, they keep a greater distance".

Francesco Moser, 75 years old and still looking sharp, answers questions from journalist Franco Giubilei in La Stampa. The Trentino cyclist was involved along with other riders - Nibali, Bugno, Saronni, Chiappucci, Ballan, Bettini, Fondriest - in a proposed law that should guarantee greater safety for two-wheelers. According to Asaps, as of December 21st of last year, 217 cyclists had died in accidents, compared to 185 the previous year. Hence the initiative by deputy Roberto Pella, Lega president, mayor, and vice-president of the National Council of Mayors, supported by parties from both sides, which includes mandatory helmets, rear lights on even during the day, a limit of ten riders in training, and a ban on group riding (maximum two riders can ride side by side).

"Is cycling more dangerous here than abroad? There's no doubt about it: it's more dangerous than elsewhere, just think that everyone used to come to Italy to train, while now they go to Spain: in the Valencia area, cyclists from all over Europe arrive".

What was your contribution to the proposed law? "It was right to listen to those of us who have lived in this environment, who might know more than others. Safety must be at the center, so cars must respect cyclists, and vice versa, because if you're on a bike, you always come off worse..." And further: "The two-rider side-by-side limit is right, the cyclist can't think of being the master of the road. I myself prefer to ride alone, but there are people who forget that cars exist, and cyclists have everything to lose, but of course cars must also pay attention".

Are bike lanes sufficient? "There are some very nice ones, but they should be increased and, above all, should be built with the same standard and measurements: two and a half meters wide to allow two-way transit, otherwise it's a mess".