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Before you set off on a bike ride you should first ensure that the bike is in a roadworthy condition. This means ensuring that the brakes are working properly, with no worn brake pads, that the tyres are correctly inflated and that the saddle is adjusted to the correct height. If you are cycling at night, ensure that you have fully functional lights front and rear.

So much for the bike, now for yourself. Always wear a helmet when cycling; falling off and cracking your head open is not recommended. Especially when cycling at night, you should make sure that you are visible to other road users. Wear a vis vest or at least light coloured clothing. Make sure that you are not wearing anything that might get caught in the spokes of the wheel. If you are cycling purely for recreation, it is not necessary to wear special shoes, just make sure that they grip the pedals; maybe a good idea to ditch the heels.

When out cycling keep to the cycle lane if there is one; otherwise ride close to the kerb but not right next to it. When approaching a junction you should be especially careful; watch out for vehicles turning and going across your line of travel. Give clear hand signals in plenty of time when you wish to turn and remember to check that there is no on-coming traffic if you are turning right.

Finally, if you are cycling in heavy traffic and you feel threatened by the number of vehicles, consider getting off the bike and pushing it on the pavement until you reach somewhere quieter.

Learn more about this author, Celia Craske.
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