Is cycling in London dangerous?  Is cycling safe?  Don’t you scare?  I’m asked that question so many times.  Here is my take on that question.

Cyclists are one of the vulnerable road user groups including pedestrians and motorcyclist.

So it would be wrong if I say it is safe to ride in London.  However, there are many things I can do to reduce the risk involved in cycling.  I cycled to work so I usually cycle 10 miles every weekday and sometimes I ride at the weekend when I need to go around the town.

How to be safe?

1. Always be seen.

Wear high visibility clothing and make sure you got the lights when you ride in the low light times.  Unless there is very bright outside, I usually turn the light on in blink mode.  That will make the other road user aware of me.

Please don’t wear plain black clothing if possible.  I got some bad experience with my plain black raincoat.

It is best to get at least three lights: the white one in the front, the red one in the back and one on your body, especially at the back.  Wear the reflective clothing at all the time both front and back.

2. Be vigilant.

Assume other road users don’t see you or they are trying to kill you.  Try to look at the road user in their eyes to make sure they see you.  Even if they look right into your eyes, proceed with caution.

3. Never ride in a hurry.

We need to plan ahead of the road at least 3-5 seconds depending on your speed.  With experience, you will be able to predict the road situation.  It is an essential skill to develop to stay safe.  However, when you’re in a hurry; you will simply ignore these and take unnecessary risk.  Trust me, it is not worth it.

4. Wear the right gears.

Most important is the helmet.  Always wear it even if you’re not legally required.  Check it is the right size and make sure the cable is secure under the chin.

Also, tie the shoelaces properly, if they got stuck in the pedal it will be a disaster.

Wear the appropriate outfit depending on the weather and make sure they are not plain black.

5. Maintain the bike regularly.

Check the tyres are good, properly inflated to the right pressure.  It is not nice to deal with a puncture on the road.  Check the drive train.  Make sure the chains are not slipping and all gears work as they should.  Also, check both breaks make sure they work, got enough material and not catching anything.

When the bike got dirty or after riding a few miles check the chain and lube if necessary.  It is also a good time to wash the whole bike to move all the dirt and grime so the bike will last longer and need less major maintenance.

6. Follow the road rules.

It is simple but some cyclist ignores them.  You are one of the road users and all the highway codes apply to you too.  So don’t jump the lights, stop at the pedestrians crossing etc.  Respect the other road users.

7. Develop the riding skills.

After getting used to riding on the road, don’t stop developing the skills on the bike.  It will make you a better rider.  Start by riding while looking back on each side.  It is, in fact, necessary to be able to look back before moving out of your lane.   Then cycle with just one hand on the handlebar so you will be able to hand signal other road users or grab a water bottle, snacks when it is necessary.  Try to ride very slowly and ride out of the saddle that will help you when filtering the traffic and climbing.  There are still many more skills not limited to the emergency stop, track stands, bunny hop, hand free.  Keep developing and master these skills all the time.