Being confident on the roads makes cycling more enjoyable and safer, too!
Cycling instead of driving is becoming a popular mode of transportation. Many are donning helmets and kneepads instead of hitting the road in the car. Not only does it help you to get fitter, but it benefits the environment in more ways than one.
Becoming a more confident road user means you’re likely to cycle more often and go to more adventurous places. If you’re nervous about cycling on the road, here are some tips to boost your cycling knowledge and confidence.
Behave Like Traffic
The most common behavior of nervous cyclists is to hug the curb. If there is no designated cycle lane, you should be cycling at least a meter away from the curb. This helps you to avoid gutters and parked cars, it gives you more room to maneuver when a car passes you, and it discourages motorists from passing you in an unsafe manner.
Get the Right Gear
It’s important to feel comfortable on your bike, so getting the right equipment is key. Don’t be afraid to try out a range of bikes until you find one that suits your needs. You’ll also need:
- Bike helmet
- Lights
- High-visibility vest or other reflective clothing
- Non-slip gloves
- A bike bag where you store your valuables.
Prepare Your Route
You’ll cycle more confidently if you have at least a vague idea of your route. Do some planning to see if there are any quieter or quicker routes for your journey.
Know Your Traffic Laws
From wearing your helmet to signaling to other drivers, it’s important that you stay a safe cyclist.
Cycle with Others
If you’re still feeling unsure of your journey, ask a friend to cycle some road routes with you, starting out on quieter roads. You could also consider a cycle safety class to boost your confidence.
When taking to the roads on your bike, be sure to secure the right protection! Get started by talking to the professionals at Young Insurance. We serve cyclists within Burbank and neighboring cities in California!
