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Plans To Slow Golden Gate Bridge Cyclists Met With Strong Opposition

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) -- Plans to put the brakes on bicyclists riding across the Golden Gate Bridge has cycling enthusiasts crying foul in this city of two-wheeled activism.

Thousands of commuters, residents and tourists ride the bridge's celebrated span each day. But some officials who oversee San Francisco's signature landmark think speed limits are necessary to lower the accident rate.

An initial plan floated this week would hit riders with a $100 fine if they don't slow to 5 mph near the bridge's iron towers. But after pedallers protested, the bridge's board of directors decided to postpone a vote on the limits while authorities and riders debate the proposal.

The proposed speed limit would be 10 mph on most of the Golden Gate. Officials say some riders have been clocked going over 20 mph.

(Copyright 2011 by CBS San Francisco. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. Wire services may have contributed to this report.)

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