Tips For Cycling In London
Understandably, some people have concerns about cycling in a big city like London. However, our experience is that, invariably, people find it far better than they had thought - it's mainly a case of keeping your wits about you and being sensible. Drivers' attitude towards cyclists in general is improving as the number of bikes on the road increases.
Here are a few tips for cycling safely and enjoyably in London:
- Be aware at all times of what's going on around you, and anticipate what's coming up. Don't wear headphones or use a mobile phone: you need to use your ears as well as your eyes (and brain) when cycling.
- We recommend you wear a helmet (fitted safety-standard-compliant helmets supplied with all bikes). They're not compulsory in the UK, and it's entirely your choice. We just think, on balance, they make sense.
- Don't cycle too close to parked cars. People will open doors suddenly. Allow yourself a yard or so space. If this means traffic behind you can't overtake you - they'll have to wait. Remember, under UK law, you have as much right to the road as any other vehicle.
- Don't cycle in the dark without lights: this is illegal, as well as dangerous. (Light sets available from Go Pedal) Also, if light conditions are poor, try and wear bright clothing so you can be seen.
- To really enjoy cycling in London, try and find the most cycle-friendly routes - quiet roads or, better still, routes where the only traffic is other cyclists and pedestrians. We can supply you with maps showing recommended routes. Most parks in London now have marked cycle routes; the Thames riverside path is mainly accessible to cyclists and is a great way of getting across the city.
- For more cycling ideas, visit our Where To Cycle section.
All text and images on this website (except where stated) copyright Simon Ford, trading as Go Pedal! © 2008