7 Safety Tips for Urban Cycling

Cycling in the city comes with its many benefits, but with those come the hazards of cycling in traffic, and the safety risks that poses.

It is accepted that it is a faster and healthier option to use commute to work and other places on a bicycle, especially in cities with heavy rush hour traffic. However, some cities still have very limited allowances for cyclers and their safety on the roads. Cyclists are considered road users and should take the proper steps to ensure their and other road users’ safety. The very first thing you need is a quality bike for city cycling. You can look for the best urban bikes for sale online and choose one that fits your requirements. You can also use the bike customizer to build your own bicycle. Once you have a quality bike, here are the safety tips to follow:

1. Stay Focused

With the popularity of headphones and other mobile gadgets now, it is easier to lose focus with music blasting into your ears. Avoid wearing headphones while cycling; it might be harder to hear vehicles honking at you. Mobile phones can also serve as a big distraction. Avoid pulling out your gadgets to check for texts and other things.

2. Stay Protected

Always take safety measures before riding out on your bike. Wear helmets, and you might want to even implement the use of knee and elbow pads, just for added safety.

3. Stay Alert

Bike cyclers are also road users, it is only logical that they also obey traffic rules and signs that other vehicle users do. To properly signal other road users and alert them on your direction, use your hands and ensure that your intent is properly communicated before making a diversion.

4. Stay Visible

One of the most important safety precautions a cyclist can take is by staying visible at all times. This is especially important for riders who cycle early morning, late at night and through foggy weather. If the car driver can see you and your bike, it is less likely there will be an accidental collision. Remember to properly gear your bike with appropriate lights and wear reflective or bright clothing.

5. Stay with Traffic

Riding the roads with other vehicle users means that you must obey all traffic regulations to maintain order and safety. Make sure that you follow the correct direction of traffic, do not cross lanes you are not supposed to, and don’t go in the opposite ways of one way lanes. Moving against the traffic might cause a disruption for other road users.

6. Stay Roadworthy

Check your bike regularly to ensure that it is roadworthy and does not need some repairs. Regular checks on your bike brakes and tyre pressure will go a long way in ensuring that you do not have sudden accidents or breakdowns which could have been avoided with quick repair. Prevention is always better than a complete breakdown. Making sure you have the right tyres for city cycling is also extremely important, because they are made specifically for that type of biking! 

7. Stay Prepared

Breakdowns and malfunctions are unavoidable. In the case of these happening, it is in your best interests to have some spare gear and a repair kit. Included in your repair kit should be; a spare tyre, nuts and bolts, tape, and wrenches. Having these tools is one thing, it is also essential to know how to appropriately use the kits to repair your bike. Proper knowledge on your bike components will save you a lot of time, stress, and money in case of breakdowns.

Cycling in parks and using the road gives a lot of freedom and swift access to areas that might be more difficult getting to with a car. If you have some anxiety about cycling in the city, with these safety tips and some proper training, you should be covered.