WELCOME
There can’t be many things that are good for you, great fun, and save you money –but all three apply to riding a bike.
Cycling boosts your mental and physical health. Riding just a few miles a week can make a difference to your energy levels, and keep your heart and lungs healthy and strong.
If you use two wheels to get to college or work, you’ll be saving money over the bus or train, and you’ll probably get where you’re going more quickly too. Why sit in traffic when you can ride past it?
Whether you are new to cycling or dusting off a bike from the back of the shed, The Ultimate Guide to Cycling is here to help. We’ll show the benefits of riding, teach you to cycle more safely, and will guide you through all the latest kit. Enjoy the ride!
David Motton, Editor
Publisher: James Evans Editor: David Motton
Art director: Caroline Creighton-Metcalf
Commercial director: Richard Storrs
Contact us info@firstcar.co.uk 08451 308853
CYCLING IS GOOD FOR YOU, GREAT FUN, AND SAVES YOU MONEY
6-11 WHY CYCLE
You need to ask? Cycling will improve your health, save you money and make you smile.
20-23 BUYING
The local bike shop isn’t the only place to buy your bike. We explain all the options.
28-35 SAFETY
Safety is no accident. Follow these tips to become a confident and safe cyclist.
38-41 BIKE CARE
Keep your bike running smoothly and safely with our guide to basic bicycle maintenance.
48-49 CYCLE TO WORK
That shiny new bike could cost less than you think, thanks to the Cycle to Work scheme. Here’s what you need to know.
12-16 BIKE CHOOSER
From road bikes to MTBs, we’ll help you find the right kind of bike for your style of riding.
24-25 HIGHWAY CODE
Big changes have been made to the Highway Code to protect vulnerable road users.
36-37 INSURANCE
Take out cycle insurance and you won’t be out of pocket if your bike is stolen or vandalised.
42-47 KIT
Stay warm, keep dry and be seen with the right kit, clothing, and cycling accessories.
50-51 SECURITY
Lock it, don’t lose it! Our guide to securing your bike outside and at home.
WHY CYCLE?
HEALTH
WEALTH
& HAPPINESS
With so many benefits, why wouldn’t you ride a bike?
CYCLING IS GOOD for you, and not just because it can make you fitter. It’s a great way to save money, save time and have fun too. Riding a bike gives your heart and lungs a good workout, but doesn’t have to be strenuous. Modern bikes have as many as 30 gears and are made of lightweight materials, so riding to college, the factory or the office needn’t turn into a slog. Even gentle riding will get your pulse rate up and burn some calories, and the health benefits can last a lifetime.
You won’t only be fitter than your mates waiting in line for the bus, you’ll be better off as well. A quality new bike may cost a few hundred pounds, but use it regularly instead of public transport or a car and in the long run you’ll be quids in.
What’s more, it’s hard to think of anything else so good for you which is also so enjoyable. Regular riders know that cycling is fun, and scientists know that cycling releases endorphins – chemicals produced by the body which give a natural feeling of well-being.
So, park the car or put away that season ticket. It’s time to get on your bike.
TOP TIP
Worried that riding to work every day will be tiring? Then begin commuting by bike a couple of days each week. Add extra rides as your fitness and confidence improve.
LIVELY LUNGS
Regular riding will enhance lung function, which is especially beneficial for anyone suffering from bronchitis or asthma.
HEALTHY HEART
Cycling just 20 miles a week can reduce the risk of coronary heart disease by 50%, according to the British Medical Association.
SUPPLE SKIN
Scientists at Stanford University have discovered that cycling can help protect your skin against UV radiation and reduce the signs of ageing.
LIVE LONG
Just 92 minutes of lowlevel exercise per week can increase a person’s life expectancy by three years, according to one Taiwanese study.
BOOST YOUR BRAIN
Exercise such as cycling can improve your memory function. A study by the University of Illinois and the University of Pittsburgh found that physically fit test subjects performed 40% better in memory tests than those who were unfit.
BURN OFF THAT BELLY
Just how much energy is used when cycling depends on a person’s weight and how hard they are riding, but an hour of vigorous cycling can burn as many as 700 calories.
JOYFUL JOINTS
Cycling is a low-impact form of exercise, so unlike jogging or running there’s very little pressure on your joints.
If your journey is a long one, become a multi-mode commuter. Take a bike to the station, hop on a train, then ride to your destination. Just check first that bikes are allowed on the train.
MILES CHEAPER
Getting from A to B can be a very expensive business. Which is why riding a bike is such a smart choice.
We’ve compared the cost of different forms of transport, calculating the cost of running a bicycle ourselves. To give the other ways of getting around a fighting chance we’ve been really hard on the poor old bike. We’ve assumed a short commute of just
three miles each way, and have used a very pessimistic estimate of how much a bike would be worth after three years. In reality, look after a bike and it will be worth a lot more than 8% of the original price. Even though our own cycling stats take a worst-case scenario view, just look how much cheaper it is to commute by bicycle rather than car, bus or train.
PETROL VS BANANA
WHY CYCLE?
HAPPINESS
Put the smile back on your face by riding a bike
PEOPLE WHO RIDE a bike regularly are in on a secret. Cycling makes you happy. You don’t have to ride far or fast, just cycling to work or college can be enough. Nine times out of 10 you’ll end a bike ride in a better mood than when you started.
This isn’t just pro-cycling propaganda. It’s rooted in science. Cycling (and other forms of exercise) cause the body to release chemicals called endorphins. These chemicals reduce the perception of pain, but can also lead to feelings of exhilaration and well-being.
Cycling doesn’t just perk you up if you’re in a reasonably good mood to start with. There’s plenty of evidence that cycling can help with depression. Researchers at the University of Southern Mississippi found that when people with a generalised anxiety disorder exercised at 60-90% of their maximum heart rates for 20 minutes, three times per
week, there were significant decreases in anxiety sensitivity and fear.
Other kinds of travel can have a very different effect. One American survey asked 900 women how much they enjoyed a number of everyday activities. Commuting came in dead last. What’s more, the longer you spend stuck in a car, train or bus the more unhappy commuting is likely to make you. A survey conducted for the Gallup-Healthways WellBeing Index found that among employees who took more than 90 minutes getting home from work, 40% experienced worry during the day. That dropped to 28% for those with short commutes of 10 minutes or less.
TOP TIP
If a car cuts you up or a pedestrian steps out in front of you, don’t get mad. Concentrate on staying safe and calm.
FEEL GOOD, DO GOOD
Why worry if you commute by bike? Forget about being caught in traffic, missing the bus, or being stuck under someone’s armpit on an overcrowded train. Go by bike, and you’ll enjoy your own space, not to mention a few quiet minutes away from email, ringing phones and the stress and strain of a busy day.
Not only will regular cycling put a smile on your face, you’ll be doing your bit for the environment too. Cycling isn’t quite emissions-free. There’s the environmental cost of building a bike, plus the carbon dioxide the rider breathes out. The European Cyclists Federation took this into account to
come up with carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions of just 21g/km for a bicycle. The same methods resulted in an average figure of 271g/km for a car. What’s more, the human ‘engine’ of a bicycle emits no harmful particulates or carbon monoxide, substances which reduce air quality and can cause health problems.
Get on your bike for a good night’s sleep. Cycling for 20-30 minutes a day helps people with insomnia fall asleep twice as fast, according to Stanford University School of Medicine.
SPREAD THE LOVE GET HAPPY
If you know someone who is thinking of cycling but doesn’t own a bike, you could lend them yours for the weekend. Sit back and watch the smile slowly spread across their face.
Cyclists are the happiest of all commuters, according to research by the Oregon Transportation Research and Education Consortium. Walkers are a close second.
E-BIKE
What is it?
An e-bike is a bicycle with an electric motor. You get most of the benefits of riding a bike but with less huffing and puffing on the hills.
Legally an e-bike is limited to 250 watts of assistance, but believe us, that’s plenty. Steep climbs are easy on an ebike. Assistance cuts out at 15.5mph.
Lots of e-bikes look like hybrids, but there are also mountain bikes, road machines and hybrids with battery power.
Why ride one?
You want to ride to work or college without breaking a sweat.
Why ride something else?
Because e-bikes are relatively expensive. Mail order machines cost around £600 or more. Expect to pay £1000-£3000 for an ebike from brands such as BH Emotion, estarli, Raleigh, and Wisper.
HYBRID
Hybrids have a comfortable, upright riding position
LET’S TAKE CHARGE
Exercise on your terms. With an e-bike you can get fit, you can travel effortlessly or you can do a bit of both! Electric bikes are proven to empower people to ride when they previously would not have. Conquer hills with ease, ride further without worrying about getting home, and do your daily journeys without breaking a sweat.
IN PARTNERSHIP WITH
What is it?
As the name implies, a hybrid is a halfway house between a road bike and a mountain bike.
Like an MTB, hybrids will usually have flat handlebars, giving a more upright position than a road bike and keeping the brake levers in easy reach at all times.
Expect larger tyres than you would find on a road bike to better soak up bumps, probably with some tread to make them suited to
canal towpaths as well as roads. (Look out for roadsters, too, which are the traditional-looking counterpart to the modern hybrid.)
Hybrids are usually designed with practicality in mind, so mounts for mudguards to offer some protection from wet weather are common. Many will also have mounting points for luggage racks.
Disc brakes sometimes feature on hybrids. These offer strong, consistent braking, and are less affected by rain than rim brakes.
Another technology some hybrids borrow from mountain bikes is suspension. This makes for a more comfortable ride but adds weight and cost.
Why ride one?
You want one bike which can do just about everything reasonably well.
Why ride something else?
Any hybrid is a compromise. Road bikes are better if speed is your thing, while mountain bikes are much tougher if you like to get off the beaten track.
Choose a road bike for a speedy and lively ride
ROAD BIKE
What is it?
A road bike or racing bike comes with drop handlebars and skinny wheels and tyres. It’s built for speed on tarmac rather than dealing with rough surfaces.
These days road bikes come in a variety of flavours. Some are made to offer comfort as well as speed with more upright riding
Mountain bikes can tackle any surface
MOUNTAIN BIKE
What is it?
Despite the name, a mountain bike isn’t just for riding on mountains. It’s for all kinds of off-road riding.
The choice of mountain bikes (also known as MTBs) can be even more confusing than the variety of road bikes. A few mountain bikes have
positions, while some have mounting points for mudguards and racks to carry bags. Others are designed for racing and competitive riding, with fewer concessions to practicality.
Most affordable road bikes are made from aluminium, with carbon fibre largely taking over on bikes costing £1500 or more.
Steel bikes may not be cutting edge but score points for their retro style, while super-durable titanium frames are a viable alternative to carbon fibre if you’ve got deep pockets.
Why ride one?
Speed is the obvious advantage of choosing a road bike. Their light weight makes them easier to get up to speed or ride uphill than most other kinds of bicycle.
Even if you’re not in a hurry, a road bike will help you cover the same journey in the same time for less effort.
Why ride something else?
Because you want to be able to ride on tracks as well as on the road, or would prefer a more upright riding position.
no suspension, others have front suspension, many have suspension front and rear. Then there’s the amount of suspension travel to consider, and whether to go for 26-inch, 650B or 29-inch wheel sizes.
More extreme riding benefits from having suspension at both ends of the bicycle to take the sting out of rocky tracks, but if you want a bike that’s tough enough to hit the trails but still rides well on the street then a ‘hardtail’ (a bike with front suspension only) is probably a better bet.
All three wheel sizes have their supporters, although 26-inch wheels aren’t as popular as they used to be.
Why ride one?
A mountain bike can tackle any terrain. You can muck about on the trails at the weekend then use the same bike to get to work on Monday.
Why ride something else?
If most of your journeys are on tarmac or smooth trails, then riding a mountain bike is a bit like wearing walking boots to go to the corner shop. Other choices will be lighter, and will go faster for the same effort.
FOLDER
A good choice for commuting
What is it?
A bike which folds up for ease of storage or carrying on other forms of transport. No space for a full-sized bike in the flat? A folder will fit in a cupboard or under the stairs. Or maybe you want to save time at either end of a train journey? A folder is ideal for multi-mode commuting.
Folders usually have much smaller wheels than regular bikes, with 16 and 20-inches being the most common sizes. As a rule, the smaller
TOURER
What is it?
A touring bike is designed for cycling long distances, often with luggage. But that’s not to say that a tourer only makes sense if you are planning to ride from Lands End to John O’Groats.
A tourer will do just about anything a road bike will do, only a bit slower. Designed for durability, stability and comfort rather than speed, a touring bike is just as capable of handling the daily commute as a week-long camping holiday.
Tourers tend to use tried and tested technology, and are often built around steel frames. Mudguards and racks are often included in the price of a new tourer, or at the very least you can expect fittings for both.
Most bikes of this kind have drop bars, giving a variety of riding positions for all-day comfort, but some tourers use MTB-style flat handlebars.
Wheels tend to be heavier but more sturdy than those fitted to racing bikes, with tyres designed for puncture resistance and reasonable grip on tarmac as well as
the wheel, the smaller the fold.
You might think that being hinged in the middle would make a folder feel odd or awkward to ride, but with a few exceptions most folders feel surprisingly normal.
Folding bike enthusiasts have ridden around the world on their bikes, so there’s little a good folder can’t do.
Why ride one?
Because you want to commute a long distance, sandwiching a journey on public transport with a bike ride at either end. Used this way a folder opens up new possibilities. Journeys which are awkward and inconvenient using public transport alone become quick, easy and healthy with a folder. Or perhaps you are short of storage space. A folder can be stored under the stairs or in the corner of a utility room.
Why ride something else?
If you never intend to take your bike on public transport and you have a shed or garage to store it in then you don’t need a bike which folds away when it’s not being ridden.
Head off on an adventure you won’t forget
bridleways and towpaths. You can tackle a variety of surfaces on good touring tyres.
Why ride one?
Because practicality, comfort and versatility are more important to you than going quickly.
Why ride something else?
You want to ride fast, on or off-road, or are put off by the slightly staid image.
Stay on the road or hit the trail: allroad bikes can do both
ALLROAD/GRAVEL/ ADVENTURE ROAD
What is it?
Known by lots of different names, gravel bikes look like roads bikes from a distance but have bigger tyres, often with MTB-style tread to make them capable on muddy tracks as well as tarmac.
This style of bike is not unlike cyclocross bikes, which also have drop handlebars and are designed for racing off-road. They were around long before the first MTB got its tyres
BMX
What is it?
BMX stands for Bicycle Motocross. These are small, super-tough bikes designed for short, sharp races on specially designed tracks, or for tricks and stunts at the skate park.
A BMX is built to withstand jumps, drops and even the odd crash, so whatever punishment you dish out expect the bike to keep coming back for more.
This kind of bike has just one gear, chosen for punchy acceleration from low speeds. Some riders add foot pegs by the wheels to make a greater range of tricks possible.
Why ride one?
Because you’re into BMX, or you’re into the image of BMX.
You can have great fun riding at a skate park or a purpose-built BMX track. But make no mistake, these are single-minded machines, at their best when used for their intended purpose rather than general riding.
dirty. Cyclocross bikes tend to have narrower tyres and a racier riding position than adventure road and gravel bikes, which are designed to be comfortable on long rides rather than raced in the mud for an hour.
Gravel bikes are popular for everyday use because they’re versatile and can handle dirt as well as tarmac. They are purpose-built for mixed-surface riding.
You can make a strong case for riding a gravel bike even if you never intend to get the tyres dirty. Fatter tyres cope well with poor road surfaces, and the riding positions are usually less aggressive than those of racing bikes.
Disc brakes are the norm, promising powerful, controllable braking in all weathers.
Why ride one?
Because you want a bike which can be ridden on and off-road without feeling sluggish.
Why ride something else?
Both cyclocross machines and the new breed of adventure road bikes are not as quick on smooth surfaces as a racing bike and not as capable off-road as a mountain bike.
Riding a BMX well takes a lot of skill and balance
Why ride something else?
Any number of other kinds of bike are better suited to commuting, riding for fitness or offroading. Having one low gear means your legs will be spinning like crazy to get up to speed on the road, and the low saddle height means a BMX won’t be comfortable for more than a few minutes at a time. Short commutes by BMX are okay, but for longer journeys of more than a mile or two this type of bike really isn’t suitable at all.
HYBRID & FOLDING EBIKES FOLDING EBIKESHYBRID & FOLDING EBIKES
E-BIKE CONVERSION KITS
RUBBEE X
This kit is simple to fit. It clamps to the seat post then rests on the back wheel, with a grippy flywheel to drive the bike. There are three different specifications to choose from, with ranges from 10 miles up to 30 miles.
PRICE From 579€ (approx £510) rubbee.co.uk
SKARPER
So long as your bike uses disc brakes, a Skarper kit will turn it into an e-bike. You fit a replacement rear disc, then mount the Skarper unit to the frame. The battery takes 150 minutes to charge, and gives a range of up to 37 miles.
PRICE Around £1000 (TBC) skarper.com
SWYTCH
Leave your old front wheel in the shed, and swap it for one from Swytch with an electric motor in the hub. The battery mounts to the handlebars, with a choice of the Air (ninemile range) and Max (18-mile range) models.
PRICE TBC (previous batch from £449) swytchbike.com
WHERE TO
Should you shop locally, choose a big chain or buy online?
SO, IF YOU’VE read our guide to choosing a bike you’ll have a good idea of which kind will suit you. The next step is to buy one.
The local bike shop is the obvious place to start, but there are other choices. You may have to travel further than the nearest high street, but one of the big chains like Evans Cycles or Halfords will have a wide choice, plenty of bikes in stock and some exclusive brands you won’t be able to find elsewhere.
Then again, you don’t need to travel at all when there are so many internet-based companies who will deliver to your door. And with bargain bikes on sale from supermarkets, you could pick up your new bicycle while doing the weekly shop.
This is assuming you want a new bike. Shopping on the second-hand market will make your money go further, although it pays to make sure the seller is legit and the bike is in good working order before handing over any cash.
BUY A BIKE
TOP TIP
When comparing internet prices with what your local bike shop would charge, keep in mind that a shop may offer free servicing or discounts on parts and accessories.
TOP TIP
Explain what kind of riding you’ll be doing to help the bike shop find something suitable. Look at several bikes to get a feel for which one is best for you and don’t rush to a decision.
SECOND-HAND, NOT SECOND BEST
Auction sites like eBay are full of second-hand bikes
Buying a used bike can be a great way to save money, or to buy a better bike for the same cash – so long as you take a few precautions. The two obvious pitfalls are buying a stolen bike, or one that’s in poor mechanical condition.
Of the two, a bike that’s seen better days is fairly easy to spot. Take a test ride so you can feel if the brakes work badly, the gears won’t
CHOOSE CAREFULLY
Before you set foot in the bike shop, it makes sense to have a good idea of the kind of bike you need. (Our guide to the different kinds of bikes should help: see page 12.)
A good bike shop will help narrow down your choices, asking about the kind of riding you plan to do and how much you are looking to spend. With this info in mind expect the shop to suggest two or three suitable bikes.
Always ask for a test ride to help you make up your mind. Most shops will be happy for you to try out a bike provided they have credit card details to act as security. Try to ride the bike on roads or tracks similar to those where you’ll do most of your riding.
If shopping online, use customer reviews to help narrow down your shortlist, and always check the company’s policy on returns.
shift, or anything seems loose. Look out for frayed cables, worn brake blocks or wobbly wheels.
A stolen bike is less obvious. Ask plenty of questions about the bike and be wary if the seller seems unfamiliar with it. Look for any registration mark which you can check against a national database like www. bikeregister.com, and ask the seller for proof of ownership.
With brands like estarli, buying online gives you great prices and lots of choice and at the same time, a range of testimonial and user videos to help you get as close as possible to the product.
The HIERARCHY OF ROAD USERS
The Highway Code includes lots of advice about protecting the most vulnerable
Acar can cause a lot more harm than a bike, but a bike could easily injure someone on foot or startle a horse. That’s now reflected in the latest Highway Code.
Lots of changes were made in a big update in January 2022. Some existing rules have been tidied up or clarified, but the guiding principle is the ‘hierarchy of road users’ – those who can do the greatest harm must take the greatest responsibility.
The likes of HGV and coach drivers have the
greatest duty to look out for other road users, because they’re driving the biggest, heaviest vehicles with the most potential to do damage. Pedestrians are at the opposite end of the hierarchy, as they’re likely to come off worst in any collision. Cyclists are towards the ‘vulnerable’ end of the spectrum, so the revised Highway Code is intended to keep cyclists safer. The new rules are sometimes misrepresented as allowing vulnerable road users, in particular cyclists, to do as they please with the car driver always getting the blame. That’s not what the changes are all
MOST VULNERABLE
THE BRITISH EBIKE MOVEMENT THE BRITISH EBIKE
Founded by the Francis brothers in the Chilterns, estarli designs and builds eBikes to help new riders to go electric.
Estarli makes hybrid and folding eBikes that give people the freedom to travel healthily, economically and traffic-free.
Their retro-inspired bikes don’t look electric and they are carefully designed and built so you can ride effortlessly and safely.
CYCLE SCHEMES: Employees can save up to 40% off estarli eBikes by using any of the major cycle schemes. Contact help@estarli.co.uk for more information.
TEST RIDE: Estarli offers test rides via their retail partners up and down the country. Find your closest one on their website: www.estarli.co.uk
COUNCILS: Estarli runs council and community schemes to help get more people onto two wheels and remove traffic and pollution from towns and cities. For more information contact oli@estarli.co.uk
TOP BUYING TIPS
FROM ALEX FRANCIS RANGE
A bigger battery gets you further but usually means more weight. Try to find the right balance for you by considering your likely range requirements. Remember, if an eBike runs out of battery, it’s still a bike!
ROAD LEGAL
In the UK and Europe, it must be EN15194 compliant, speed restricted, and without a motorbike-esq throttle.
AFTERCARE
Pick a strong and personable brand that also has a dealer network in your region so they can look after you efficiently and promptly after purchase. Try to
find a brand that demonstrates good customer service when you contact them and has good Trustpilot reviews.
VALUE
Anything under £1k is likely to have a low-spec controller, motor and components. The higher the bike spec, the longer it will last you. However, do your research because you don’t need to pay over the odds.
WEIGHT
Think about whether you will be carrying the bike. Might you need a folding bike for getting onto trains, into the boot of your car and domestic storage? If so, how often might you do these things?
OR HOW ABOUT...
... fitting mirrors to your bike? They don’t remove the need to look over your shoulder but a mirror can improve your sense of what’s going on around
RIDING SAFE
Learn these techniques and you’ll be well on the way to becoming a confident, careful and safe cyclist
1 LOOK BEHIND YOU!
What does cycling and panto have in common? You need to ‘look behind you!’
Okay, it’s a bad joke, but a serious point. It’s easy to remember to look where you are going when riding, but what’s happening behind you is just as important, particularly when approaching a junction.
Well before you reach a junction, take a look over your right shoulder. Is there any traffic approaching from behind? Only when you know what’s happening behind you can you make a safe decision about adjusting your position on the road.
This over-shoulder check is especially important when turning right from a main road to a minor road. Look back before you move to the right-hand side of your lane, then look again before turning. Traffic shouldn’t try to overtake you when you are turning, but unless you look to check how can you be sure? It’s called the ‘lifesaver look’ for a reason.
Lorries and buses have large blind spots, so take care when overtaking
LOOK OUT FOR BLIND SPOTS
Don’t assume other road users have seen you. In particular, be very cautious around large vehicles such as lorries and buses which have large blind spots. The rule of thumb is, if you can’t see the vehicle’s mirrors, the driver can’t see you. Even then be very careful when sharing a stretch of road with large vehicles. This eye-opening
video on YouTube shows why: www.youtube. com/watch?v=lV-rhiGRFTE.
In slow-moving traffic it’s generally safer to overtake a lorry or other high-sided vehicle on the right, as the driver of the vehicle has better visibility on this side, but only do so if there’s room to overtake safely without being in danger from traffic coming the other way. If in doubt, hang back and ‘guard the lane’ (see page 34).
Look other road users in the eye to help you judge their intentions
THE EYES HAVE IT
No cyclist ever wants to hear the words “Sorry mate, I didn’t see you.” Hi-vis clothing and a good set of lights will help, but don’t underestimate the importance of eye contact. If you’re riding past a junction and you can see a driver waiting to pull out, look directly at them. Make eye contact if you can. Don’t assume that someone has seen you, even if you think they are staring straight at you. But if they don’t make eye contact there’s a good chance they haven’t spotted you.
Be very cautious passing the junction and get ready to brake or change direction if the vehicle pulls out unsafely in front of you.
... taking a first aid course? The likes of the Red Cross and St John Ambulance run courses which will help you attend to others in an emergency before professional help arrives. OR HOW ABOUT...
ADVANCE, THEN STOP
Some signal-controlled junctions have advanced stop lines for cyclists. These create room for riders at the head of a queue of vehicles, making them more visible and giving them space to move off when the lights change. Usually a cycle lane on the left leads cyclists to the stop line. Keep an eye on the traffic signal as you
approach the junction. If the signal is red and traffic is stationary, it should be safe to move up to the advanced stop line. If the lights are red and amber or green, move carefully back into the main traffic stream. Even if the light is red, it may be better to hang back rather than filter up the inside of an HGV or bus: the driver may have a restricted view.
SAFETY IN NUMBERS
There’s evidence that the more people take up cycling, the safer cycling becomes. Studies in many cities including Berlin and York have all supported the ‘safety in numbers’ principle.
However, some statistics from Transport for London have shown that when cycling in the capital increased, the number of riders killed or seriously injured per million journeys rose.
That suggests that infrastructure improvements and the skill level of all road users may be just as important.
Advanced stop lines are there to make the roads safer, so don’t be afraid to use them
Some studies suggest more cyclists make for safer roads
The National Cycle Network covers over 16,500 miles, some of which are traffic-free
GUARDING THE LANE
8
There are times, especially at junctions, when the safest place to ride is the centre of the appropriate traffic lane. Having looked over your shoulder to check it will be safe, move to the centre of the correct lane. If that means changing lanes, such as when turning right at a roundabout, remember to indicate your intentions clearly. ‘Guarding the lane’ makes you more visible to other traffic, improves your own view of the road, and reduces the chance of being unsafely overtaken.
OR HOW ABOUT...
... leaving a door’s width between you and your bike and any parked cars? That way if someone opens their car door you are already far enough into the lane to avoid being knocked off.
PLAN YOUR ROUTE
The more skilful and confident you become the happier you will be riding in traffic. But don’t ride down a busy main road if you don’t feel happy, particularly if there’s a quieter alternative close by.
On the other hand, back roads with frequent junctions can slow you down, and there may be many parked cars, inattentive pedestrians and other hazards.
Try to plan a route where you don’t have to give way to traffic too often. In particular, avoid busy roundabouts if there’s a less frenetic alternative route. Roads with bus lanes can be cycle-friendly, and a well designed, traffic-free cycle path can make your journey hassle-free.
BIKEABILITY
Bikeability training gives riders of all ages and abilities the skills they need to become safe and confident cyclists.
Ride assertively but safely at junctions and roundabouts
Level 1 is for new cyclists or riders who haven’t been out on their bike for a long time. It teaches basic skills in a traffic-free environment.
Level 2 takes riders onto the road, and teaches how to cope with junctions and signal clearly to other road users.
Level 3 helps riders deal with more complex road layouts.
Find a local Bikeability instructor at www. bikeability.org.uk, or www.cycling.scot/whatwe-do/bikeability-scotland-2
A SENSIBLE POLICY INSURANCE
Insuring your bike means you won’t be out of pocket if it’s
KEEPING YOUR BIKE securely locked cuts the odds of it being pinched, but it’s no guarantee. If your bike is stolen, you’ll be glad you had insurance.
WON’T MY HOME INSURANCE COVER ME?
Not necessarily. Check the policy documents or better still give the insurer a call to check. The more expensive the bike, the less likely it is that your home insurance will cover it. The insurer may be prepared to add a bike to the home contents policy, but this is likely to push up the premium. In which case it makes sense to compare the cost against specialist cycling insurance.
WHO WILL INSURE MY BIKE?
There are plenty of companies out there, offering different levels of cover at different prices. Some of the best known are Cycleguard (www.
cycleguard.co.uk) Cycleplan (www.cycleplan.co.uk), the ETA (www.eta.co.uk), and Velosure (www. velosure.co.uk). Get quotes from several before you commit and compare the benefits of each policy as well as the price you will pay. Look for good value, not just the lowest price.
WHAT SORT OF COVER IS OFFERED?
That depends on the insurer. At a very basic level, a policy should cover theft and accidental damage. If you compete in some form of bike racing, check you’re still covered – this isn’t always the case.
When insuring a brand new bike consider a policy with new for old cover. This means if your bicycle is taken the insurer will pay out the price of a brand new replacement, not the current market value of the bike that’s been stolen.
Some policies include get-you-home cover, so if your bike is damaged or vandalised the insurer will pay for a taxi so you’re not stranded.
POLICY stolen
Third party (or public liability) insurance is also well worth having. If you injure someone or damage their property, this should cover any claim for compensation. When comparing policies, check what the maximum payout would be.
WILL I NEED TO KEEP MY BIKE LOCKED UP?
Yes. Leaving your bike unlocked is little different to leaving the keys in a car with the engine running.
Just any old lock may not be good enough: the insurer may insist on a minimum level of security, depending on the value of the bicycle. For example, ETA insists on a Sold Secure Silver-rated lock for bikes worth up to £1500 (including the value of any fitted accessories), and Gold for bikes with a value of more than £1500.
You can also expect minimum standards for overnight storage. Don’t be surprised if a communal hallway isn’t considered secure.
HOW MUCH WILL IT COST?
We tried insuring a hybrid bike worth £500 at a Surrey address. Here’s what we were quoted:
CYCLEGUARD
www.cycleguard. co.uk
Premium: £44.80
What’s included: Cover against theft and accidental damage (new for old on bikes, market value for clothing).
Optional extras: Public liability and personal accident cover; global travel cover; roadside recovery; competition use.
CYCLEPLAN
www.cycleplan. co.uk
Premium: £29.05
What’s included: Cover against theft and accidental damage (new for old on bikes purchased new and not more than three years old).
Optional extras: Public liability cover (£1m, £2m or £5m); accessories cover (up to £1000); legal expenses cover; personal accident cover; loss of earnings; replacement bicycle; foreign travel; competition.
ETA
www.eta.co.uk
Premium: £48.13
What’s included: Cover against theft, accidental damage, including competitive use (new for old); Cycle Rescue (breakdown cover); get-youhome cover; personal liability (£2m); personal accident (£20k); worldwide cover (60 days, excluding US and Canada); loss of earnings; legal advice.
Optional extras: None – the policy is all-inclusive.
VELOSURE
www.velosure.co.uk
Premium: £26.34
What’s included: Core policy covers against theft and accidental damage (new for old); accessory cover (up to £1000); family cover; legal advice; physio; replacement cycle hire; public liability (£2m).
Optional extras: Upgrade to Performance policy (£38.65) for worldwide cover; cycle rescue; sports and events cover; personal accident cover; road rage cover.
THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO CYCLING
TOP TIP
This adventure road bike has hydraulic disc brakes. They’re powerful and easy to control, but not as easy for the home mechanic to maintain as traditional rim brakes.
TYRES
Always keep the tyres inflated properly – there should be a recommended maximum or range of pressures given on the side of the tyres. Once a week or so, check the tread for any sharp objects which could cause a puncture. Remove whatever you find.
CHAIN
Keep the chain running smoothly with a high-quality chain lubricant rather than generalpurpose oil. A dirty chain will wear out quickly and reduce the life of other components. Some degreaser and a stiff wire brush should shift the grime, or you could buy a chain cleaner.
CABLES
Check for any fraying or wear. If the cables are worn either replace them yourself or get a professional mechanic to do it for you.
WHEELS
If there’s a slight wobble as the wheel rotates then it’s out of true. Check for loose spokes and tighten them evenly. It’s not especially difficult to true a wheel but it does take patience, so if in doubt head to your local bike shop who should fix the wheel for a few pounds.
HOW TO FIX A FLAT TYRE
Sooner or later, you’ll pick up a puncture. The good news is punctures are easy to fix. These nine simple steps will soon have you back on the road:
If the puncture is on the back wheel, shift into the smallest chainring and the smallest sprocket on the back wheel. This slackens off the chain so the rear wheel can be taken out easily without catching on the rear derailleur (the gear-shifting mechanism by the back wheel).
Take the wheel out of the frame by loosening the quick release (the mechanism which clamps the wheel to the frame) and slackening off the brakes (there’s usually a lever on the side of the brake which opens up the space between the brake and the wheel so it will drop out without snagging). If your bike has disc brakes there’s no need to bother, it should drop through without catching on anything.
Remove the old tube and examine it for the cause of the puncture. Check the tyre too, and carefully remove any thorn or flint which may have pierced the tyre and tube. 1 2 3 4 5
If the inner tube valve is fitted with a collar, unscrew it so that the valve can be pulled through the valve hole.
Unhook one side of the tyre from the wheel rim using tyre levers (you can buy these for a few pounds from any bike shop). Insert the scooped end of one lever under the tyre and attach the other end to a spoke, then insert the second lever a few centimetres further around the tyre. Push the second lever along, prying the side (or bead) of the tyre off as it goes.
Put a small amount of air in the replacement tube to give it shape, which makes it easier to fit under the tyre.
Insert the valve in the valve hole, and feed the tube under the tyre.
Put the wheel back in the fork or frame. Tighten the quick release, make sure the wheel is centred properly, and if you slackened off the brakes in step two be sure to tighten them again. Keep the punctured inner tube so it can be fixed with a repair kit at home when you have more time to spare.
Be sure that one side of the tyre is securely on the wheel, then begin to hook the other side onto the rim. Start at the valve hole and work your way around using both hands so they meet at the far side. The last part of bead may need strong thumbs or some persuasion with a tyre lever, but be careful not to pinch the tube. Check carefully that no inner tube is poking out, then pump the tyre back up to the correct pressure.
Quality cycling kit and clothes don’t have to cost a fortune
... shopping online? Some of the prices we’re quoting here aren’t hard to beat with some shopping around on the internet. Discounts of 10% or much more are common. OR HOW ABOUT...
STARTING WITH... THE COOL STUFF
Estarli Rucksack and
For longer rides this bag attaches to a luggage rack like a pannier. For shorter rides wear it as a rucksack.
This ingenious two-in-one bag is made of recycled materials. estarli.co.uk
Litelok X1 £149.99
This D-lock is claimed to be five-times more resistant to angle grinders than its best-selling rival. It’s not cheap, but this is a mighty tough lock if you want to protect your bike from thieves. litelok.com
Hindsight Artemis £149.99 Every other vehicle on the road has mirrors, so why not bicycles? That’s the thinking behind these ingenious cycling glasses with built-in mirrors to show what’s behind you while you ride. hindsight.store
LIGHTS FANTASTIC FRONT LIGHTS
Front lights don’t come any cleverer than the Exposure Strada RS AKTiv The roadspecific beam pattern works whichever way up the light is mounted, so it can be fitted under or over the bars. The latest model has been upgraded to a massive 1300-lumen output, and in AKTiv mode the light will adjust automatically to avoid dazzling other road users. exposure-use.com
You get a lot of light for your money with the Cateye Ampp 500. Select the most powerful light mode and you have enough power to see and be seen on unlit roads. Cutaways in the body of the light give good side visibility, and the run-time is up to 50 hours in flashing mode. cateye.com
BARGAIN BASEMENT
The tiny Elops CL500 rechargeable LED light is cheap, but it will help you stand out during the day (you’ll want something more powerful at night). A neat trick is the way it can be used on the front or the back of your bike, switching between white and red light. decathlon.co.uk
BE-SEEN PEDAL LIGHTS
One of the most innovative products around is the Redshift Sports Arclight pedal. These include bright front and rear lights to make you more visible to other road users. They cost from £129.99, but are claimed to make you 57% more visible.
REAR LIGHTS
TOP END
You need deep pockets for the Exposure Blaze Mk3 ReACT + Peloton but it’s packed with brilliant features. Thanks to Ambient Kinetic Technology the light automatically brightens under braking. The run-time is 6-48 hours, depending on mode. £115 exposure-use.com
MID MARKET
The Bontrager Flare RT punches above its weight – Bontrager claims the 90-lumen output can be seen 2km away. There are three flashing modes, two steady settings, with a claimed run-time of up to 13.5 hours. Bontrager makes a similar front light – they make a good pair. £50 trekbikes.com
It’s cheap at full price, but we’ve seen the FEW Battery Rear Light discounted as low as £5. With a seven-lumen output it’s not especially bright and don’t expect too many clever features. But this is a great budget buy or emergency back-up. £8 evanscycles.com
JUST JACKETS
Designed for commuting, the Pearson Streets Ahead waterproof jacket looks good both on and off the bike. There are lots of reflective details as well as hi-vis reversible cuffs so you stand out in traffic. Pearson Cycles offers the jacket in a men’s and a women’s fit. pearson1860.com
Good value at full price, we’ve seen the dhb Flashlight Women’s Waterproof Jacket on sale with 50% off. There’s a choice of four colours, and the fabric is highly waterproof and breathable. Reflective details help you to stand out when riding at night. wiggle.co.uk
£85
The Triban RC 120 budget jacket will get you seen and keep you dry in a light shower, although it won’t keep out heavy rain. The colour really stands out in the day, while lots of reflective materials to catch car headlights at night. decathlon.co.uk
... wearing a regular waterproof rather than a cycling jacket? Just be aware that any waterproof designed for general use may not be as breathable. OR HOW ABOUT...
MID MARKET
Available in five sizes, the Endura Xtract Gel Short II padded Lycra shorts are good value. The pad has an antibacterial finish and a dimpled structure to improve comfort, and the inside leg is free of seams to avoid irritation. endurasport.com
BARGAIN BASEMENT
You could spend a small fortune on upmarket cycling shorts. Or you could just buy the Triban Essentials Mens’s Road Shorts and have change from a tenner. They’re padded for extra comfort on the bike and come in six different sizes. decathlon.co.uk
ACTION CAMERAS
MID MARKET
USING A SAFETY CAMERA
If you have an action or safety camera on your bike, you may have footage of a near-miss. Or you could be involved in a collision, and believe the other party is to blame. In England and Wales, you can upload footage for the police to review using the National Dash Cam Safety Portal. nextbase.co.uk/ national-dash-camsafety-portal/
There’s no equivalent in Scotland, but you can report incidents through an online form: scotland.police.uk/ secureforms/c3/
You get two devices for the price of one with the Cycliq Fly12 Sport , because it’s a 600-lumen front light as well as a camera. If you crash, the Fly12 Sport will trigger incident protection which locks audio and video files either side of the incident. Pair it with the Fly6 rear light/ camera to record what’s behind you too. cycliq.com
£349.98*
With its large image sensor, cinematic quality footage and video stabilisation, the GoPro Hero 11 Black is a brilliant action camera if your budget stretches far enough. It’s ideal for filming two-wheeled adventures, but overkill as a safety camera to record incidents on the road. gopro.com
*With GoPro subscription
£299
BARGAIN BASEMENT
Chilli MkII Action Cam
Although it can’t match a high-end GoPro for tech or features, you still get good quality footage from the Chilli Action Cam, and it will record up to four hours and 30 minutes of footage on each charge. The battery is replaceable, so the camera isn’t junk if the battery fails. chilli-tech.com
£69.99
IT’S NOT OFTEN you have cause to thank Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs, but the Cycle to Work scheme is one good reason to be grateful. Provided your employer has signed up, you can save between 32% and 47% of the cost of a brand new bike.
Most bike shops take Cycle to Work vouchers. Operators include cyclescheme.co.uk, bike2worksheme.co.uk, and cyclesolutions.info.
HOW DOES IT WORK?
Instead of paying the full cost of the bike (and accessories) up front, you pay a proportion of the price each month through your salary. The saving comes through not paying any income tax or National Insurance on the money spent on the bike.
Technically the bike belongs to your employer and you are hiring it from them until the end of the agreement (often 12 months but sometimes longer). In theory there’s no guarantee that your employer will offer the bike to you at the end of the agreement, but in practice that’s usually the employer’s intention.
WHAT HAPPENS AT THE END OF THE AGREEMENT?
The bike is legally yours once a final payment has been made,
In theory at least 50% of the bike’s use should be for work
either to your employer or sometimes the scheme’s operator. Another option is to extend the hire beyond the original period so that when the hire eventually ends the bike is worth less. Some schemes ask for a small deposit to be paid at the start of the extended agreement, but no monthly payments. At the end of the term the bike is yours, or you can hand it back and ask for your deposit to be returned.
HOW MUCH WILL THE FINAL PAYMENT BE?
If you want to buy the bike at the end of the original hire period then the employer and scheme operator are obliged to work to the HMRC’s definition of ‘Fair Market Value’. This is 18% of the original price after 12 months if the bike cost less than £500, or 25% if it cost more. The valuation decreases significantly for extended hire periods, which is
why these longer hires can be so cost effective: a bike which cost £500+ is only valued at 7% of the original price after four years.
DO I HAVE TO USE THE BIKE FOR COMMUTING?
The purpose of the scheme is to encourage more people to cycle to work rather than to boost cycling in general, so in theory at least 50% of the bike’s use should be for work purposes. In practice this is difficult for an employer or HMRC to keep tabs on.
WHAT IF I NEED SOME ACCESSORIES?
You can also buy safety accessories and other essentials through the scheme. These could include a bike helmet, lights, locks, and mudguards. Funding accessories as well as a bike is a sensible way to get the most from the Cycle to Work scheme.
BEATING THE THIEVES
You wouldn’t leave a suitcase full of money in the street. Why do the same for your bike?
SECURE YOUR BIKE
WHEN IT COMES to bike security, the most obvious advice is to use a bike lock. Even if you’re only popping into a shop for a moment, always use a lock as it only take a moment to steal a bike.
Go for a lock that’s been rated by Sold Secure, as this will guarantee a good level of theft resistance. Brands with a strong reputation include Abus, Kryptonite and Litelok.
Look for a lock which is easy to handle. Ideally, you should be able to lock and unlock it with gloved hands. If you ride whatever the weather, check for weatherproofing around the key barrel. You also need to think about how you are going to carry the lock. Many locks have mounts for fitting the bike to a bicycle frame, which saves the hassle of finding room in a bag. Think twice about carrying the lock on your body unless it has been designed to be worn this way (for example, Hiploks are designed to sit flat against the body, and so reduce the chance of being injured by the lock in a fall).
GO FOR A QUALITY LOCK
There are plenty of cheap, thin and flexible
locks on the market. On the face of it these look tempting, as they are easy to carry and straightforward to use. But these inexpensive and lightweight locks rarely offer good security – you’re much better off spending more on something really tough and robust.
It might seem like overkill, but using more than one lock is a smart move. That’s especially true if you have quick-release skewers on your wheels. These make it easier to remove a wheel to fix a puncture, but also make life easy for a bike thief. Make sure a lock passes through your frame and one of the wheels, securing to something solid like a bike stand. Then use the second lock to secure the other wheel to the bicycle frame.
LEAVING YOUR BIKE
Where you lock your bike can also make a difference. At school, college or work, if there are dedicated bike parking facilities then use them, especially if they are monitored by CCTV, or behind a security barrier.
If you need to leave your bike in a public place, the more public the better: don’t put it somewhere a
DEMAND FOCUS
DAY AND NIGHT
BE SAFE BE SEEN.
DayBright - Unique pulse pattern designed for daylight use, more obvious than a regular “flash” and visible from over a kilometre away, even in the brightest conditions.
