Cycling safely
Riding a bike has a positive impact on health and happiness; it’s great for the environment and a fun way to spend time with friends or the children.
If you’re new to bike riding or getting back in the saddle, Britain’s network of traffic free cycle paths is perfect. Women who ride more often know that taking to the roads needs concentration and confidence in equal parts. Here are the Breeze network’s top tips for a fun and safe – cycling adventure.
- Practice
- Ride assertively
- Be seen
Join other women who ride bikes
If you fancy joining in a big cycling event or charity ride why not start with the Breeze network for women? You can grow your skills and confidence on local, informal bike rides with other women.
Basic riding skills are the same on the road or in the park
Think starting, stopping, straight line riding, changing gear smoothly, slow riding and turning. Take control of the road – and make yourself seen. Ride assertively, not in the gutter. This way you will take your place on the road and this helps everyone to see you. Ride in the centre of the left hand lane or at least a metre from the side of the road. And always remember to ride a car door’s width away from parked cars.
As your confidence builds, practice right hand turns, passing parked vehicles and passing side roads. As you practice right hand turns, check the traffic to ensure it’s safe, then signal and move to the centre of the road. Wait until there’s a safe gap in the oncoming traffic and give a final look before completing the turn. Practice with friends, you can help each other and your confidence will soar.
Be seen
High visibility kit is inexpensive, and some of it is quite trendy too! Lights are a must if you ride at night. Do get a bike helmet – it helps keep you safe and seen. It should be a snug fit, positioned squarely on your head – sitting just above your eyebrows, not tilted back or tipped forwards. Fasten it securely - check there’s enough room for two fingers between your chin and the strap.
Make eye contact
Many drivers also ride bikes! They want to share the road. Do make eye contact, so you know they’ve seen you too. Acknowledging courtesy with a nod and a smile is always appreciated.
If you want to find your nearest Breeze bike ride, click on our ride finder above and join the fun!
