How to Cycle Safely Around London

London sees a growing number of cyclists daily, with cycling being a good commute alternative for getting around the city. Riding a bike to work, for instance, is a great way to save money and avoid the crowded, sweaty tube. Locals and tourists can also take the pedal for leisure, thanks to the creation of new lanes and segregated routes.

With the right safety precautions, you fully enjoy these benefits. So, where should you begin?

Plan Your Route

 

(Image Credit: Flickr)

Planning your route in the city is crucial for your safety, especially if you’re a tourist. Lucky for you, there are lots of bike-friendly London bike routes and dedicated cycle lanes in London, so this step should be easier. The best part is that most of these routes wind through some of the city’s iconic sights!

You can use online resources, such as digital maps or cycling apps, to chart your course. These handy tools can give you real-time updates on road conditions, too, so you can choose less-travelled paths or avoid traffic. You can also plan your journey through the Transport For London website to find leisurely routes.

Wear Protective Gear and Perform a Bike Safety Test

 

 

Wearing the right gear and bike accessories is one of your best protections on the road. Start with the basics: a good bicycle helmet for head protection. Reflective clothing, such as a jacket over your cycling outfit, also increases your road visibility.

But safety isn’t just about what you wear. Before each ride, do a thorough inspection of your city bike or any bicycle you use. Test the brakes to make sure they’re responsive, check the tyres to ensure they’re well inflated, and see if your bike light is working.

Follow Cycle Lane Rules

 

(Image Credit: Wallpaper Flare)

Using cycle lanes isn’t mandatory, as per The Highway Code, but they are available to make your journey safer and keep you out of traffic. When using them, they may be shared with pedestrians or segregated, and there are London bike rules you need to follow. These include staying in your lane to give pedestrians plenty of room.

You can also use bus lanes. However, double-check the signage to ensure that cycling is permitted (which most do). Again, watch out for pedestrians and avoid passing a bus on its inside at any time.

Reminder: You must never skip a red light when passing through a highway, especially at a dangerous junction. This is illegal and is specifically mentioned in Rule 69 of The Highway Code.

Mind the Intersections

Intersections are where roads meet and split, so be extra careful when you get to them. Slow down or stop if needed, especially during traffic. Make eye contact with drivers and pedestrians to let them know you’re there.

Tips: Position yourself at least an arm’s length away from the kerb. When cycling past parked cars, maintain this distance to avoid being hit if a car door opens unexpectedly. Take a more central position when approaching an obstruction or when the road narrows. Always check over your right shoulder before moving to ensure it’s safe to do so.

Avoid Distractions

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Stay focused and alert on the road and your surroundings as you bike through the city. Don’t fiddle with your phone, and try not to wear headphones, as these can distract you. You might not hear cars approaching if you have loud music playing.

If you’re a tourist, don’t stop in the middle of the road or cross busy streets just to take photos. Park your bike in a designated bike area and explore on foot instead. This way, you can enjoy the sights safely!

Prioritise your safety as you ride around the city of London so you can go from one place to another without risk. Up next on your reading list: The 6 Best North London Cycle Routes