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On the road
Cycling is a great way to stay fit and healthy and reduce your carbon footprint. In busy areas cycling can often be quicker than a car journey; however this comes with dangers as you are more vulnerable than a car or lorry. It is therefore important that you follow the Highway Code as this explains the laws that motorists, cyclists and pedestrians must obey, and gives further advice on road safety. It is important that you:
- always wear a helmet
- don’t listen to music whilst you’re cycling
- don’t ride on the pavement - you're not allowed to cycle in pedestrian areas or on motorways
- always indicate using hand signals before you turn or before you move out into the middle of the road
- try to keep a safe distance from large vehicles: remember that it is possible that the driver cannot see you when turning
- don't carry another person on your bicycle
- make sure you understand the meanings of road signs and respect these rules
- don't ride without front and back lights and a rear reflector when it's dark
- wear reflective or fluorescent clothing to make sure than you can be seen
- don't lean your bicycle against a shop window (it may scratch the glass) or in a place which blocks the pavement.
Security
Bicycles are often easy things to be stolen so you should:
- use a strong lock and attach the bicycle's frame and both wheels to an object which can't be moved (ideally to a proper bicycle stand if there is one)
- consider taking out insurance
- be mindful of where you leave your bike especially in isolated places
- remove smaller parts and accessories that can't be secured, especially lights, pumps and quick-release saddles.
Maintenance
It is important that you make sure your bicycle is well maintained. You don’t want to start a journey and then realise that you have a problem. It is important you check that:
- tyres are kept in good condition and are inflated to the correct pressure
- the chain is properly adjusted and well oiled
- saddles and handlebars are adjusted to the correct height
- your brakes and gears are working efficiently.
Fitness
Getting on your bike is a great way to stay fit and healthy and can help:
- you lose weight as cycling burns the energy you might get from that extra chocolate bar or packet of crisps
- with your mood as moderate exercise can reduce levels of depression, stress and raise self-esteem
- you improve your level of fitness.
Bikeability
Bikeability is the Cycling Proficiency Test for the 21st century, designed to give children and young people the skills and confidence to ride their bikes on today’s roads. There are three Bikeability levels:
- Level 1: You learn to control your bike and demonstrate that you have the skills to ride where there are no cars and that you are ready to start road training.
- Level 2: You can demonstrate you have the skills to make a trip safely on quiet roads and cycle lanes.
- Level 3: You can demonstrate you have the skills to make a trip safely on busy roads and advance road features.
For more information about Bikeability training in Essex, call 01245 437131 or email grahame.pinder@essex.gov.uk
Useful websites
Highway Code: cyclists
An explanation of the cycling rules and wording found in The Highway Code.
Think: road safety
The Government’s road safety campaign to reinforce the need for road users to take responsibility for their own safety and for the safety of others on the road.
Sustrans
A charity that finds ways for people to walk, cycle and use public transport.
Why Cycle?
Impartial advice for potential and new cyclists.
Bikeability
Information on the Cycling Proficiency Test.
Colchester Cycling
The Colchester Cycling Club has advice about safe cycling and links to training sites.
Cycle Training East
Promoting 'safe cycling' as an efficient and environmentally friendly means of transport.
Essex County Council: cycling and walking
Provides additional advice about staying safe when cycling. Provides links and information on cycling organisations, cycling events, cycling to school and cycling routes.
Bicycle Helmet Initiative Trust
Is committed to saving young people’s lives by promoting safe cycling and, in particular, the use of cycle helmets.
Online tools
Build a bike
You have received your new bike and it needs assembling! Do you know your bike parts?
Last updated: 21/06/11
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