Como mayor bans bikes in city centre after being hit 'by one of these beasts'

The mayor of Como has set the wheels of controversy in motion for banning bikes in the walled historical centre of the lakeside city after being hit by one, the Guardian reports. Alessandro Rapinese's ban, which comes into force this week, prohibits cycling in the pedestrianised heart of the city, a decision he says is for public safety.

Rapinese, who told the BBC that he was struck by an electric bike and that he knows 'what it's like to be hit by one of these beasts', denies he is waging a personal vendetta against cyclists. The ban has sparked a public backlash, with cycling advocates and some residents arguing it penalises a sustainable mode of transport for the actions of a few.