Cycling Safety Tips for a New Year of Adventures

As we usher in a new year, many of us are excited about setting new goals and resolutions. If cycling more in the coming year is one of your aspirations, it’s essential to prioritise safety. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or just starting out, these cycling safety tips will help ensure that your rides are enjoyable and secure.

Gear Up for Success

Investing in the right gear is crucial for cycling safety. You’re always going to need the essential gear including a helmet, light, and reflective clothing. Make sure that you have a helmet that is properly fitted, It’s your first line of defence in case of a fall. Reflective clothing will make yourself visible to motorists so consider reflective vests especially during low-light conditions.

It’s crucial to also invest in powerful, long-lasting lights to illuminate your path and signal your presence to other road users from behind. It’s important to get a light that will last you hours and is powerful to light up in any weather condition.

Bike Maintenance Matters

Before hitting the road, make sure your bicycle is in good working condition. If you plan to ride for long hours, it’s essential to perform regular maintenance to keep your bike in tip-top shape wherever you go. Some important things to start checking include:

• Tire Check: Maintain proper tire pressure and inspect for any signs of wear or damage.
• Brakes: Ensure your brakes are responsive and properly adjusted.
• Gears: Make sure your gears shift smoothly.
• Chain: Keep your chain clean and well-lubricated.

Plan Your Route

Planning your cycling route is essential, particularly when venturing into unfamiliar territory. Whenever possible, opt for routes with dedicated bike paths or lanes. If you’re unsure about finding such routes, you can use maps and images to assess the area’s infrastructure and plan the safest routes accordingly. Platforms like UpRide.cc allows provide a valuable resource for cyclists by raising awareness of road safety issues, offering real-world information on cycling black spots, and assisting in the prosecution of drivers who put lives at risk. By sharing your own video footage of incidents encountered while cycling, you contribute to making cycling safer for everyone.

Record Your Ride

Safe cycling is not just about following the rules and wearing the right gear, it’s also about being proactive and prepared for the unexpected. Light and camera dashcams can be your silent witnesses on the road, providing a valuable layer of protection and accountability. Here’s why they matter:

• Visual Evidence: Dashcams capture your entire ride, ensuring you have a detailed record of any incidents or accidents. This visual evidence can be invaluable in case of accidents and you need to show the whole picture.
• Increased Visibility: Powerful front and rear lights not only illuminate your path but also make you highly visible to motorists and pedestrians, especially during early morning or evening rides.
• Deterrence: The presence of a camera can act as a deterrent to reckless driving behaviour or road rage incidents, promoting a safer environment for all road users.
• Peace of Mind: Knowing that you have a reliable recording device onboard can help you ride feeling more confident and improve your overall riding experience.
• Spread Awareness: Just like you, other riders are likely to encounter traumatic incidents on the road or face challenges with cycling infrastructure. By recording your ride and sharing it on websites like Upride.cc, you can raise awareness and provide information to other riders about what to watch out for in their area.