Safety Tips

While cycling is unquestionably a great sport, it is not without hazards and as a club, we want to help our members stay as safe as possible when out enjoying a ride.

With that in mind, this is a short, not exhaustive list of tips and practices that we encourage you to keep in mind when riding. Keep in mind that this list does not cover everything, it is simply meant to outline a few practices to adopt when training and commuting. 

If you are starting out riding or are new to riding in the UK and have any concerns or questions, don’t hesitate to contact the club’s cycling captain who will be more than happy to help you out.

1) NEVER, EVER pass on the left of a lorry or other large vehicle or sit on their left side at a traffic light, even if there is a bike lane to the left of where it has stopped.

- Roughly half of all cycling deaths in London happen when an HGV turns left across the path of a cyclist that they have not seen.

- If you find yourself behind an HGV, keep back and make sure you can see the mirrors so you are visible to the driver.

2) Always wear a helmet when riding.

- Races will not allow you to participate unless you wear a helmet, and the club will not permit you to participate in club rides without one. Fancy and expensive helmets are not essential; any helmet from a reputable bike shop will be sufficient to protect you.

3) Be aware of your surroundings at all times, be extra careful on narrow roads with blind turns.

- Avoid listening to music when riding.

4) Do not run red lights. At many junctions in Cambridge, you will not be able to see oncoming traffic, and they won’t see you in time to stop.

5) Keep your hands on the brakes when on roads or cycling in a group so you are able to stop quickly if you need to.

6) Ensure you will be visible to drivers. Use lights, reflectors and a high vis jacket when riding in the dark.

- This is especially important at night in wet weather as it is even harder for drivers to see you.

7) Always take a phone with you when riding in case of an accident. If possible, let a friend know where you are going and when you expect to be back.