Top cycling tips

• Share this Space with other road and path users and be a cycle ambassador – Be alert, be patient and be nice! Use your bell or call out “Hello!” or “Excuse me!”  to let others know you are there or that you want to pass.
• Make eye contact with other road users, especially on the approach to junctions, then you know they’ve seen you.
• Book some free cycle training to learn how to keep safe.
• Cycling Superpowers to help you control the traffic around you and arrive at your destination smiling and stress-free
• Teach your child how to ride a bike.
• Know your Highway Code – see Rules for Cyclists and You and your bicycle
• Hints and tips from Bikeability on cycling
• Invest in a good bike, whether it’s new or second hand- it will be nicer to ride and the more you enjoy riding it the more you will cycle
• Look after your bike  by regularly checking tyres, wheels, brakes and keep it clean and lubricated
• Check out Cycling UK’s  Top ten tips for cycling in traffic and Essential riding advice for beginners
• Don’t jump red lights, be  and don’t cycle on the pavement* unless it’s designated as a cycle or shared path.
• Cycle helmets (and also bike accessories and clothing) – advice from Sustrans
  • Always buy a new helmet which conforms to one of the recognised safety standards such as BS or CE.
  • A good helmet should be firmly fitted with no gap between the helmet and your head.
  • If you will be cycling for long periods, choose a helmet with air vents to help keep you cool.
  • Check your helmet regularly for wear and tear and, if it takes a bash, replace it.

• Use lights and consider wearing bright or reflective clothing, especially in towns, at night and in bad weather.
• Cycling is a year round activity so follow our cycling in winter tips.
• Never cycle along the inside of large vehicles, such as lorries and buses, especially at junctions, where most accidents happen.
• Consider a bike camera so you can submit footage to the Police’s Operation Snap if you witness driving offences such as dangerous driving, driving without due care and attention and careless driving

*In 2014 the road minister confirmed that cyclists are permitted to ride on the pavement, as long as they do so considerately