Bicycle Safety Tips

Most of these 20 bicycle safety tips while touring make common sense although some of the tips may be new to you.

Bicycle Safety Tips

Bell – Is a must to alert pedestrians and other cyclists of your presence. In some regions such as Toronto you must legally have a bell while bicycle touring. A great bicycle bell from Amazon.

Cobblestones – In Europe cycling over cobblestones can be tricky the first time if you are not used to them so take care. In North America watch the curbs.

Color – Always wear brightly colored jackets or clothing during a storm so the drivers can see you. Most cyclists wear a yellow or red jacket.

First Aid Kit – perhaps the most important of the bicycle safety tips is that a minimum of one person in your group must carry a first aid kit.

Focus – Enjoy the scenery during your bicycle touring because that is a major reason for your trip. That means focusing on your cycling and no headphones, stopping if you need to use a cell phone.

Helmet – Wear a helmet whenever cycling as a cap will not help you much if you fall. Replace your bike helmet every few years as the materials weaken in the sun.

Hydration – Drink water or sports drinks before you get thirsty. Of the bicycle safety tips this one is often forgotten, most cyclists do not drink enough.

ID bracelet – For safety reasons many cyclists are now wearing an ID bracelet while bicycle touring. Should an accident occur the emergency people have immediate access to important medical information.

Insurance – Although not one of the bicycle safety tips it is really important. As you are bicycle touring away from home you should carry medical coverage. Without insurance medical costs can be expensive. In some countries such as Switzerland all cyclists are required to have local insurance coverage. If you are traveling with a adventure tour company it is usually compulsory that you have travel insurance to participant in the tour.

Lights – Both front and rear lights should be used at night so drivers can see you.

A Loaded bicycle – Handles differently, so if you have not practiced with a fully loaded bicycle take it easy on the first few hills and whenever making turns. Your bicycle will react much slower than you are used to and it wider so watch you do not bump into things.

Mirrors – You need to see who or what is behind safely without looking. There are two types of bike mirrors: one type fits on the end of your handlebar while the other type is attached to your helmet. It is personal preference as to which type is best.

Reflectors – Are required by law in some countries, such as Austria, for all cyclists.

Signaling – Let other cyclists and drivers know your intensions, in some places it is the law.

Single file – Travel in single file not only on busy roads, but also on busy bike paths such as the Danube route.

Storms – If you encounter a storm with lightening seek shelter, but never under a tree.

Stopping – A common error is for cyclists to stop suddenly without signalling so the person behind does not have time to stop. Also standing on the bicycle path when not cycling, get off and let other cyclists pass.

Tools – Ensure someone in your group carries bicycle tools for minor fixes.

Traffic – If concerned about bicycle touring with cars use some of the long distance cycling routes available. In destinations such as Denmark you must use a bike path, where available.

Tune up – These bicycle safety tips won’t help if your bike is in bad repair. Prior to departing on your bicycle tour have your bicycle checked by a professional.

Follow these bicycle safety tips while touring and have a enjoyable trip!

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