Keep safe and warm during the coming months by following these simple cycling tips.
With fewer daylight hours in the winter months many more cyclists are riding in poor light conditions. It is during the winter months that cycling on Britain’s roads becomes more dangerous because of reduced visibility in the dark, fog and glare from lights. Therefore, to be seen in the dark mornings and nights it is firstly important to ensure you have good quality lights fitted onto your bike. Remember its white at the front and red at the rear!
Also, to help be seen by other road users and pedestrians always wear high visibility bright clothing. It is a good idea to invest in good lightweight waterproof clothing made from breathable fibres, which will prevent you from getting wet or damp in the cold winter months. Other recommendations to keep you safe and warm this winter include investing in a thin ski hat which can be worn underneath your helmet to keep your head and ears warm, and wearing cycle glasses which can help with the low bright sun.
One of the parts of the body that will feel the severe cold when cycling is hands. It is essential to provide some form of protection for your hands in order to maintain a good grip on the bike. Gloves ideally should be made from breathable waterproof materials and some are available with padded palms and non-slip break and gear-change fingers.
Furthermore, when cycling this winter still keep in mind the most appropriate places to use as bike parking and bike storage. It is essential that you park your bike correctly and securely over the winter months as the cold weather does not deter bike theft, and no one would want to be left without their preferred method of transport. So, whilst it may seem like a good idea to park your bike by a lamppost, for instance, because it is closer to your destination, remember you are more likely to become a victim of bike theft and should always choose a designated cycle parking area.