These 9 tips will help you cycle safely through the dark days
We are increasingly cycling to work. This is not only good for the environment, but with the daily traffic jams on our Belgian roads, you often even save time. Now that autumn has started, of course you need to be careful on your bike. Our tips will help you cycle safely through the dark months!
Drive ‘mono’ and don't be distracted
That the smartphone distracts us in traffic, we all know by now. But it is not only in the car that it is best to leave your mobile phone aside. Even on the bike, the slightest distraction can cause an accident. By the way, did you know that even as a cyclist, you can expect a hefty fine if you use your smartphone behind the wheel?
Do you use a navigation tool on your smartphone to cycle smoothly to your destination? Then buy yourself a waterproof smartphone holder that you can place on your handlebars. Do you enjoy listening to music or a podcast on the go? Then opt for open-ear headphones or use headphones with dynamic audio option. These ensure that your ears are not blocked off and that you can still hear traffic approaching.
Be visible
Visibility is extremely important as a cyclist both during the day and at night. Especially now that it is getting dark faster, extra lights and reflectors are no luxury. Equip your bicycle wheels with reflectors, wear a fluorescent jacket and preferably a fluorescent helmet as well. Some helmets are even equipped with small LED lights for extra visibility. Don't forget your bike lights either! Make sure you adjust your headlight correctly so you don't blind motorists.
Don't set your tyres too hard
When it is wet on the track or when it snows, you prefer to have some extra grip with your bike. Therefore, do not over inflate your tyres. A tyre that is slightly flatter has more tread on the road. This gives you more grip, especially when it is slippery. You can read how much air your tyres need on the side of your bike tyre. Professional mountain bikers set their tyres extra soft, for example, to get more grip in the mud. Just be aware that your rolling resistance increases, so you will have to pedal a bit harder.
Wear a helmet
Wearing a helmet is not compulsory in our country, but by now we all know what impact a good helmet has, or what impact it can just avoid. A properly worn helmet significantly reduces the chances of a brain injury in a fall. So rep yourself to the bike shop, choose a model that suits you, and wear your helmet with pride. You score extra safety points when that helmet is also equipped with lights.
Communicate in traffic
Cycling always involves a bit of anticipation, but especially during autumn and winter, it is important to pay attention and clearly indicate your intentions. So hold out your arm before turning into a street and always try to make eye contact with motorists. Do not assume that all road users simply know what you are up to. By giving clear signals, motorists can also brake in time for you.
Snow? Adjust your driving style
Cycling in the snow is an art in itself. Therefore, as with driving, it is important to adapt your driving style. Especially try to ride in fresh snow, as it is smoother and safer than snow that has already frozen. Also limit your speed, and cycle in a higher gear. That way you are less likely to skid. Also, start braking well in advance and brake gradually with both brakes. Take your turns extra wide and slowly. It can also help to lower your saddle a little so that your centre of gravity is lower and you have more stability.
Practice your skills
The more familiar you are with your bike, the more skilful you will be in traffic. Take some time to practice some cycling skills on private property. Learn to take sharp turns, try to stand still as long as possible without putting a foot on the ground, learn how to ride up and down a kerb or try holding your hand out while riding. That way, you won't panic when you get into tight spots in traffic.
Keep your bike in order
Just as you send your car for maintenance from time to time, it's also best to give your bike a full maintenance every year. Make sure your brakes are working properly, adjust your lights properly, and lubricate your chain regularly. Keep your bike clean, too.
Opt for the cycle highway
To get more people on their bikes, our government is putting plenty of effort into cycle highways. These are wide cycle paths, usually well-shielded from the carriageway, which take you from one city to another as quickly as possible. On the cycle highway, you will therefore not encounter cars, trucks or other motorised traffic. Do watch out for drivers of speed pedelecs and electric scooters, as they too make skilful use of the cycle highways and can reach high speeds. By the way, did you know that in Flanders today, 2,800 kilometres of cycle motorways have already been built? In addition, there are 38 ongoing construction sites. You can find all info on cycle motorways here.
With these tips, you will be ready to get through autumn and winter by bike. And don't be put off by the cold, because cycling in winter is healthy! You get some fresh air and burn twice as many calories cycling in the cold than in normal weather. Just be extra careful! By the way, did you know that you can also lease a bike at ALD Automotive I LeasePlan? You can find all information about our bike lease here.
