The two deadly bike crashes over the past two weeks have bike advocates and critics sounding off on blogs, kgw.com and on the streets of Portland.

“They think they own the road,” said Southeast Portland’s Bill Pec who usually drives around town.

 Background: Well-known cyclist killed in crash

 Your Turn: Your thoughts on crash

 Statement: From Ore. Bicycle Racing Assn.

“I feel like they should honor our lanes,” said bicyclist Dave Muldoon.

Bicycle activists hope the recent deadly crashes will result in new laws to protect bike riders. Some drivers feel they have enough rights already.

KGW photo

“If they want to take over the road maybe they should pay a little,” said Pec who suggested an annual $50 tax for bike riders.

Bicyclists told kgw.com they routinely get in near misses with drivers who don’t see them.

 Blog: Police explain yield law

 Also: memorial held for bicyclist killed by cement truck

“At least once a week I have a close call,” said Mike Hutchens, who commutes to downtown Portland everyday.

Judithann Hoffman said she was run off the road by a car, she thinks on purpose.

“The car literally drove me into the curb and as I fell and hurt myself, they drove away laughing,” said bike rider Judithann Hoffman.

Portland transportation officials are aware of, and disappointed by the friction between some drivers and bicyclists.

“As we’re moving around the city, we’re not in some bubble. We’re having an impact on other people. We have to respect that impact,” said Portland Traffic Safety Specialist Greg Raisman.