The Campaign
 We all know cycling can be great fun, but did you know it can also make you feel happier, healthier and fitter too?
Cycling really has no limits, so whether you are cycling to get somewhere or testing your abilities on an off road cycle route, always make sure you Cycle Safe. Remember you may not be old enough to drive but you are in charge of a moving vehicle.
To help you along your way we have included some basic hints, tips, rules and regulations, so you really have no excuses not to get on your bike.
It’s important to be seen!
Not just at night, any time. By day try to wear light coloured or fluorescent clothing, by night where possible these should be changed for reflective clothing.
Remember – it is the law for your bike to have front and rear lights, and a red reflector at the back.
Helmets, not just for Christmas!
To protect your head you must always wear a good fitting helmet.
When you buy a helmet remember to read the instructions, they are there for a good reason. There is a simple test to find out if your helmet fits, the thumb test. Take your thumb and place it underneath the front of your helmet and push hard. If the helmet moves to the back of your head it’s too lose. To adjust your helmet properly adjust the straps around your ears, after this you can adjust the chin strap.
Read more about helmets >>
 Always check your bike!
- Brakes: make sure they work
- Cables: make sure they are not frayed
- Tyres: check they are pumped up, that they still have a tread pattern and double check for splits bumps or lumps.
- Steering: does it feel loose when you lift the handle bars a little?
- Lights and Reflectors: are they clean, clear and working?
Read the road!
- Red circles: mean you MUST NOT do something
- Blue circles: mean you MUST do something
- Rectangles: are for your information
- Triangles: are warnings or danger signs
Wherever you are, whatever you do, T.L.S.M!
THINK |
– always think about how safe you feel. You can become a pedestrian. |
LOOK |
– take a good look over your right shoulder for traffic. |
SIGNAL |
– if it might help someone. Don’t drive off whilst signalling. |
MOVE |
– is it safe? Make sure you have looked for traffic. Stop if you need to. |
Wise up and learn the rules of the road!
- Always ride 60cm from the kerb
- Give way at a main road
- Wait for traffic signalling to turn
- Look at the road markings head of you
- If it’s not safe do not overtake
- Look around you – car doors will open, people will cross and cars will move off
Last but not least…
Do not worry; the road is not your only option!
If the open road is not for you, cycle routes provide a great alternative, but please remember to watch out for pedestrians and always obey the road markings you may come across. |
