The end of summer means the start of the new school year! It's a good time to make good resolutions, like taking up cycling. But if you've never cycled in an urban environment before, it can be a daunting task... Fortunately, we've put together some tips on how to get started in the city. We're off!
The right equipment
If you've been following Rainette articles for any length of time, you'll know the importance of getting the right equipment. The goal? See and be seen, by indicating your presence. As mentioned in the article "Riding a bike: what do French regulations say?", here's a list of MANDATORY bicycle equipment:
- Rear reflector (red), front reflector (white) and side reflectors (orange)
- Bell audible from a distance of at least 50 meters.
If you drive at night, or in poor visibility due to fog, rain or passing through a tunnel, you must also have a :
- Rear position light (red)
- Non-dazzling front position light (white or yellow)
- Approved yellow vest
Finally, if you're riding with a child under the age of 12, whether driver or passenger, he or she must wear an approved helmet (CE mark). However, we recommend that older people also wear a helmet, so that they can ride in complete peace of mind. Baby seats are compulsory for children under 5.
If you don't have any of these items, you'll be liable to a fixed fine.
Recommended accessories
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Indispensable visibility assets that you can find here on our storein the form of stickers, laces or bicycle spokes.
Always with a view to safe riding, mirrors and hazard spacers are welcome on your bike.
Last but not least, safety also comes into play when you're stationary. To limit the risk of your bicycle being stolen, invest in a good anti-theft device. In other words, a resistant anti-theft device.
When it comes to comfort this time, wear weather-appropriate clothing. Some T-shirts and jackets are designed to limit perspiration. We recommend them. Gloves, meanwhile, are your best allies in preventing ugly blisters and the appearance of horns. Oh yes, we almost forgot! The basket is ideal for driving in built-up areas, allowing you to store your briefcase or shopping bags. But beware of snatch theft! So never put your handbag or any other luggage containing your papers in it.
Check the condition of your bike before heading out on the town
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Before getting on your bike, it's essential to check its condition. This applies in particular to brakes and tires. Make sure your brakes are in good working order. As soon as they look a little worn, replace them. As for tires, they must, of course, be inflated and not flat.
Remember also to check their pressure frequently, which should be between 3.5 and 5 bars. How to check them? Either at home, if you have a pressure gauge, or at an inflation station.
If you've opted for a basket, make sure it's securely attached to your bike. This will avoid any inconvenience when riding.
Give priority to bicycle facilities
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Cycling in the city is all very well! But cohabitation with other road users can be tricky. That's right, traffic on sidewalks is prohibited for cyclists over 8 years of age. This means you have to share the road. So you can ride safely and enjoyably, bicycle paths and greenways are to be preferred. As these are reserved areas, they offer a considerable safety distance from motorists.
Cycling in the city: respecting the highway code
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When you start cycling in town, you also have to comply with the Highway Code. Traffic lights, road markings, signs, right of way... Let's take a look at how to adapt these rules to two-wheeled cycling.First of all, it is essential to position yourself well. Ride in the right-hand lane, just like cars, scooters and other road users. If there's more than one cyclist, it's best to ride in single file. Then remember to keep your trajectory, i.e. to drive straight. Zigzagging is dangerous, as it makes your movements unpredictable for motorists.
Need to shoot? Tell the people around you by stretching your arm in the desired direction. And do it well before you commit yourself, so that users have time to take the information on board.
As a cyclist, you're not very visible by nature. So, even if you have the priorityBut don't rush into it. Slow down systematically so you can stop if you need to.
PS: in traffic circles, always keep as far to the right as possible, even if you take the last exit.
Be aware of your surroundings
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Route
Pay close attention to the state of the road surface, which is not always well maintained in urban areas. A piece of garbage, a hole, a slippery manhole cover, and you're in trouble... So keep a watchful eye along the way to avoid these obstacles.
Also remember to keep an eye on other motorists to make sure they've seen you. This will enable you to better anticipate their actions. In addition to your eyesight, keep your ears open. Engine running, horns honking... Essential sound information! Headphones are therefore to be avoided.
Finally, try to take up as much space as possible on the road by moving atleast one metre awayfrom the sidewalk or cars parked on the side. This prevents motorists from attempting dangerous moves, but above all avoids the risk of "car-dooring". In other words, car doors that open without warning.
Users
Trucks, the heavyweights of the road, are not only dangerous for cars and scooters, but also and above all for cyclists. It is therefore preferable to limit truck overtaking staying wisely behind.And watch out for scooters and motorcycles, which often appear out of nowhere! That's why it's so important to keep an ear out for them, and to keep your position on the road.
But the road isn't just for motorists. Pedestrians also need to be careful, especially on crosswalks. So don't forget to use your bell to get noticed.
Cycling in the city: what a pleasure!
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Want to start cycling in the city? Now that's a good idea! Thanks to the tips above, you'll be able to ride your trusty steed with peace of mind and become the king of the city. You'll save time, your health and your mind, and you'll save money!
