Ride Safe
· Obey traffic signs, signals, follow the Highway Code.
· Ensure your bike has front/rear reflectors and use lights when necessary.
· Dress to be seen - wear bright or reflective clothing.
· Wear a helmet, it can provide protection.
· Use a bell or other warning device.
· Be predictable and decisive, always signal in plenty of time.
· Think ahead, keep looking and listening.
· Make eye contact with other road users wherever possible.
· Never ride up the inside of any vehicles.
· Pass horses carefully and provide an audible warning.
· Keep your bike well maintained, visit your local bike shop for help and advice.
Maintenance Checklist
Every week
· Check your tyres, brakes, lights, handlebars and seat are in good order and tightly secured; any wheel quick releases should be in the closed position.
· Check your light batteries and the pressure of both tyres.
· Ensure your brakes squeeze the rim of your tyres when applied and do not rub on the tyre itself, wipe off dirt from brake pads and wheel rims.
Every month
· Give the chain a thorough wipe clean and lubricate with chain oil.
· Clean the dirt from your wheels.
· Check the tread on your tyres – any bulges or bald spots mean that you need new tyres.
· Ensure your brake pads are in good condition and are not worn down.
· Make sure your gears change smoothly, if you are having problems adjust if you can or get them checked at your local bike shop.
· Check for damaged or frayed gear and brake cables.
Every year
· It’s worth taking your bike to an experienced mechanic once a year for a thorough service, see the list of local bike shops in this guide
Other considerations
· If you are new to cycling consider cycle training with a qualified instructor: www.warwickshire.gov.uk/cycletrainingfor ‘Bikeability’ cycle training for both adults and children.
· Obtaining third-party liability insurance is a sensible choice and forms part of your membership of either Cyclists’ Touring Club (CTC) or British Cycling.
