Health

10 ways to stay safe while cycling this winter

Cycling in winter can prove hazardous
Cycling in winter can prove hazardous Cycling in winter can prove hazardous

WITH cycling continuing to be a popular mode of transport, riders are being urged to take care as we enter the winter months, which present a range of new safety hazards.

Wet and freezing conditions combined with poor visibility can turn the daily commute into a daunting journey for even the most seasoned cyclist, and now the clocks have gone back, darkness can mean even more danger.

However, local tech firm See.Sense have compiled 10 safety tips to help keep cyclists alert to the hazards around them on the roads this winter.

1. Know your route

Plan a suitable route for your ride, whether it be a morning commute or a weekend spin. Try to avoid hazardous roads, lanes or highways, or areas prone to flooding. Always carry a mobile to call for assistance if needed, and keep an eye on the weather forecast before venturing too far.

2. Check tyre treads regularly

Checking your tyres is a must before heading out on cold and icy roads. Grit, thorns, leaves and mud will also be your enemy for the next few months, heightening the chance of losing traction or getting punctures. A decent pair of winter road tyres will help. Check traction and tread, and look for a tyre that is puncture resistant.

3. Pick the right clothing

Invest in waterproof and windproof garments that protect you from the elements. Think thermal when it comes to bibs, tights, undervests and gloves. Also look for clothing with luminous or lurid strips to improve visibility.

4. Mudguards are a must

Mudguards are another important addition to your bike this winter. Spray from the roads and muddy surfaces can impair your vision. Not ideal if you are riding beside busy traffic or approaching congested junctions. The spray can also flick off your rear wheel and soak your bottom - which can be embarrassing - not to mention uncomfortable.

5. Be vigilant around traffic

More people tend to use their cars during winter, and that increase in traffic - coupled with reduced visibility - should keep cyclists on their guard. Always be aware of the traffic around you, and try to anticipate any manoeuvres motorists may make such as pulling out of parking spaces, reversing, and cutting across your path. Remember, in the morning commuters might still be squinting at the low sun or peeking out of a misted windscreen. Also beware of car doors suddenly swinging open.

6. Avoid slippery road hazards

Rain and ice can transform the road into a hazardous terrain for cyclists. It will take you longer to stop when braking in the wet because of the build-up of water between your wheel rims and brake pads. Also try to avoid road markings as they can be slippery when wet. The same applies to drain and manhole covers. It is easy to lose grip when turning sharply over a slippery surface at speed.

7. Light up your ride

LED technology means you can illuminate your cycling experience with a pocket-sized light weighing in at just 60g. Whether you are commuting through a busy city centre, or free-wheeling down a quiet country road - make sure to light up your ride - during the day and at night.

8. Slow down - or fall down

Don’t forget the danger of black ice during the winter months. Be aware of road conditions when temperatures plummet.

9. Protect your eyes

Low-lying sun, rain, heavy snowfall, road spray, vicious headwinds and general grit and debris - your eyes will have a lot to contend with this winter. Sunglasses can help eliminate the glare of the sun, while at night plain glasses will give you some protection. Goggles are another option in very extreme conditions - just be wary of them steaming up.

10. Safety in numbers

Cycling with a friend or group will give you the added comfort of knowing help is at hand if anything goes wrong - especially when cycling at night. It’s good to have assistance if you have a mechanical fault or a puncture, and if you do fall off then someone is there to help you out.