[a fool in paradise]

They had the same mentality that is shared among many cyclists, they think sidewalks are for bikes and pedestrians should get out of their way.

That's how Amsterdam sees things, never mind the speed differential.

[dfwgator]

That's how Amsterdam sees things, never mind the speed differential.

Boy I learned that the hard way when I was there, they don't slow down for anybody.

[Darteaus94025]

In Amsterdam, there are 4 lanes for traffic:
1) Streetcars
2) Autos
3) Pedestrians
4) Bicycles

There are very subtle markings to denote the divisions, and I didn’t notice them until second visit. If you are walking in the area marked off for bicycles, cyclists will come close to hitting you and at high speeds to “hint” that you are in the wrong spot.