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Cycling Tips
Cycling is a fun pastime that the whole family can take part in, but it is essential to make sure that all aspects of safety have been considered before making that first bike ride. Here are some important safer cycling tips:
Brakes - Do they work? Look out for worn brake blocks or badly adjusted brakes.
Tyres - Are they inflated and with good tread? Look out for bald patches.
Be safe be seen - Wear something that is both reflective (night time) and fluorescent (day time) so that you can be seen easily at all times.
Reflectors & Lights - Are they fitted and working? It is against the law to ride a bike without a rear reflector! Remember to clean them as well, "A dirty reflector is not a protector!" Benefit from good all round observation and give clear signals of intent for your safety and that of other road users...
Cycle Helmets
More than 25,000 cyclists are involved in injury accidents on the road each year. Over half the reported injuries are to the head. 10% of all head injuries result in permanent brain damage to some degree. If you have an accident, a cycle helmet can help reduce the risk of a serious injury to your head by 85%. Remember: make sure your helmet conforms to one of the following safety standards:
a) BS EN 1078
b) ANSI Z90 - 4
c) SNELL B90
d) AS 2063
Make sure your helmet fits properly and always has the chin strap fastened.
Renew your helmet immediately if you are involved in an accident, have a fall or the helmet gets badly scratched, dropped or knocked.
A cycle helmet will not prevent accidents – you still need to take care.
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