Staying safe in the saddle this Road Safety Week

Manchester bike brand Insync Bikes is backing Road Safety Week as motorists across the UK are urged to put the brakes on dangerous driving.

The week, from 16 to 22 November, aims to inspire schools, organisations and communities to take action on road safety and promote life-saving messages along the 2020 theme of ‘No need to speed’.

As a family brand, promoting safer cycling has always been a priority for us and we urge motorists to consider the messages of the week, organise by road safety charity Brake.

For cyclists, there are some steps you can take to ensure you stay safe while out on the saddle, starting with your pre-ride checks.

Check your tyre pressures are at the right level and seats and handlebars at the correct height to ensure you can touch the floor and sit in the right position. If you are cycling with children, make these checks regularly to ensure the bike remains suitable as your child grows.

The next step is to make sure everyone riding has the right kit, including a helmet that fits and bright, reflective clothing to ensure you can be seen on the roads. Invest in some bike lights as a priority – especially important during the autumn and winter months, while gloves are also a good idea to prevent scuffs and grazes should you come off your bike.

Before you go out cycling, make sure you know the rules of the road and ensure you can ride one handed so that you can signal to other motorists.

If going out with children, ensure they can start and stop safely before leaving home and that they know to follow your instructions and will listen out for your commands while riding.

Out on the road, stay alert. Make sure you know who and what is around you and be looking further ahead so you can identify any potential hazards. Give notice before you make a manoeuvre so that other vehicles know what you’re going to do and leave adequate space between you and cars.

Keep children in your eyesight at all times and allow them to lead about 50cm from the kerb, with you cycling about a bike’s length away but slightly right, so that you protect them from traffic. 

Take the necessary precautions to stay safe and the whole family can enjoy the benefits of cycling.

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