At Reid Cycles, we believe that everyone should feel confident and safe when they're out on the road. If you're a nervous cyclist, we're here to help! Check out our top tips for building confidence on the road.
Find Safe Routes One of the best ways to build confidence on the road is to start by riding on safe routes. Look for bike paths or quiet streets with low traffic volume. You can also use bike maps or apps to find the safest and most direct routes to your destination. Over time, as you become more comfortable on your bike, you can gradually start exploring busier roads.
Use Hand Signals Using hand signals is an essential part of safe cycling. Hand signals let other road users know where you're going and can help prevent accidents. Always use clear hand signals when turning, stopping or changing lanes. Remember, hand signals aren't just for your safety - they're also required by law!
Be Visible Making sure that you're visible to other road users is key to staying safe on your bike. Wear bright or reflective clothing and make sure that your bike is equipped with lights and reflectors. This is especially important when cycling at dawn, dusk, or at night.
Interact with Other Road Users Interacting with other road users can be intimidating, but it doesn't have to be. When cycling on the road, it's important to be aware of other road users and to communicate with them in a clear and friendly way. If you need to change lanes or merge into traffic, make eye contact with the driver and use clear hand signals. Always be polite and respectful, and remember that most drivers want to share the road safely with cyclists.
Practice Makes Perfect Finally, the best way to build confidence on the road is to practice. The more you ride, the more comfortable and confident you'll become. Start with short rides on safe routes, and gradually increase your distance and speed over time. Before you know it, you'll be a confident and skilled cyclist, ready to take on any road!
So, there you have it! Our top tips for building confidence on the road. At Reid Cycles, we're passionate about helping nervous cyclists feel confident and safe on their bikes. Remember, the key to safe cycling is to be aware, be visible, and communicate clearly with other road users.