This pass was so close the cyclist said he was nearly killed. The truck is massive and gets closer as it passes. This is why you never make excuses for yourself on the road when you're cycling.
For many cyclists the temptation when taking to the open road is to stay as far out of the traffic's way as possible.
This often takes the form of riding as close to the side of the road as possible.
But as this clip demonstrates beyond any doubt; all you do when you hug the kerb or margin tight is invite motorists to drive far too close to you.
You need to take up a position slightly out into the road; assert yourself as a real physical presence and stay there.
The cyclist who recorded this clip - American Craig Bauer - said he was trying to be "nice" by riding far into the side of the road to give passing vehicles space.
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His road positioning, coupled with the fact he encountered a complete arsehole driving a huge truck, very nearly made for a messy end.
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Had he been cycling one metre to his left, this truck either wouldn't have tried to pass him or would have needed to perform a real overtaking move rather than drive like he wasn't there.
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At the very least, when it became clear to cyclist Bauer that a close pass was happening, he would have had space to duck into on his right to keep himself safe.
He posted the video below - recorded yesterday - with the following message: "I almost died today.
"I was being nice to drivers by riding to the right of the white line on some narrow roads with some shitty shoulder areas. I heard the truck and anticipated being 'buzzed'.
"I did not expect the trailer. The trailer was inches or less from my left shoulder. I held my line as I have been trained to do. The ditch was my last option.
"For my cyclist friends...be careful out there! For my non-cyclist friends...this is exactly why giving us 3 ft is such a big deal!
"I apologise for the language at the end...not really!
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