Cycling Attitude and Ethos
Cycling Attitude and Ethos
The ethos of safe cycling can be described as ”defensive cycling”. This approach is common to safe motorcycling and car driving as well, it is very good attitude to adopt. The key to defensive cycling is forward planning, good observation and a strategy for coping with potential hazards. In relation to “riding along”, observation and awareness and forward planning are the cyclists main protection.
- Observation and awareness is not something to do only at junction. Cyclist should be aware at all times in all circumstances constantly. This also involves listening. Walkmans, MP3s and mobile phone headsets are completely out of the question when cycling.
- Looking ahead means as fat as the eye can see, or as is allowed by the current conditions. Rear observations should be every few seconds and are know as ”life savers” when motorcycling. Before you execute a manoeuvre a ”life saver” will alert you to any problems that might be coming up behind you.
Riders
Do not ride if you are:
- Ill
- Intoxicated
- On medication or other drugs that affects your judgement and awareness
Journey
Plan the journey to be safe and where possible to use cycle paths and quiet roads. The timing of your journey can have an effect on your safety and enjoyment, try and avoid peak times and rush hours.
Weather conditions
Wearing the correct clothing for the weather is essential. Do you have the correct clothing for the following conditions?
- Rain
- Icy
- Very Cold
- Windy
- Snowing
