Cycling Safety: A Complete Guide to Safe Cycling

Cycling safety is essential to enjoying every ride without risk. Whether you're navigating city traffic or country roads, taking the right precautions can make the difference between a pleasant ride and a dangerous situation.

Essential Safety Equipment

The Helmet: Fundamental Protection

A protective helmet is the most important piece of equipment for your safety. A good helmet must:

Be certified according to European standards (CE EN 1078)

Fit perfectly on the head without moving

Cover the forehead up to about 2 cm above the eyebrows

Be replaced after every significant impact

Visible Clothing

Being seen is crucial for safety:

Bright, fluorescent colors during the day

Reflective elements for evening and night

High-visibility vest for low-light conditions

Technical clothing that doesn't get caught on bike components

Lights and Signaling Devices

Lights are not only mandatory, they're lifesaving:

White front light - Mandatory from half an hour after sunset

Red rear light - Always mandatory in low-visibility conditions

Reflectors - Front, rear, and on the pedals

Bell - Mandatory to signal your presence

Pre-Departure Checks

Before every ride, take a few minutes to perform these checks. Essentials:

Brakes

Make sure the brake levers are working properly

Check the condition of the brake pads

Make sure the cables are not worn

Tires

Check the correct pressure

Make sure there are no cuts or excessive wear

Remove any foreign objects from the tread

Chain and Transmission

The chain must be clean and lubricated

The gear shifts must operate smoothly

Traffic Behavior

Respect the Highway Code

Cyclists must follow the same rules as other vehicles:

Respect traffic lights and road signs

Give way when requested

Signal your intentions with clear gestures

Keep to the right of the road

Do not use your phone while cycling

Positioning on the Road

Pedal about 1 meter from the edge to avoid potholes and obstacles

Maintain a predictable trajectory

Avoid zigzagging between cars

Be careful At the doors of parked cars

Pay Attention to Critical Spots

Some road features require special attention:

Roundabouts - Position yourself correctly and signal your intentions

Intersections - Slow down and make sure you are seen

Zebra crossings - They become slippery when wet

Manhole covers and grates - They can block your wheel or cause you to slip

Tram tracks - Cross them perpendicularly

Defensive Driving

Always adopt a defensive driving approach:

Anticipate the behavior of other road users

Maintain a safe distance

Make eye contact with motorists

Never assume others have seen you

Slow down in uncertain situations

Adverse Weather Conditions

In rain, wind, or poor visibility:

Reduce your speed - Grip decreases

Increase your braking distances

Use lights even during the day

Wear waterproof and visible clothing

Pay attention to surfaces Slippery

Riding at Night

Riding at night requires extra precautions:

Use strong front and rear lights

Wear reflective clothing

Reduce your speed

Choose well-lit routes when possible

Pay more attention to obstacles

Child Safety

If you ride with children:

Make sure they always wear helmets

Use approved child seats for younger children

Choose safe routes and bike paths

Teach them basic road safety rules

Always set a good example

Conclusion

Cycling safety depends on a combination of proper equipment, regular maintenance, knowledge of the rules, and responsible behavior. By following these tips, you can enjoy every ride while minimizing risks.

Remember: you can never be too safe. Always ride with caution and respect for yourself and other road users.