CYCLING GOOD PRACTICE

1. Master the Harbourside Rails

If you cycle around the M Shed or the Wapping Wharf area, you’ll notice historic crane and railway tracks embedded in the ground.

• The Golden Rule: Always cross these tracks as close to a 90-degree angle as traffic conditions safely allow.
• The Risk: If your tyre gets caught in the groove, you will go down. It’s one of the most common rookie mistakes in the city.
• Top Tip: Slow down before crossing, keep the bike upright, and avoid turning while riding over the tracks.

2. Preparation & Bike Maintenance

• The M-Check: Check your brakes are responsive and that your saddle and handlebars are safely tightened before every trip.
• Professional Service: Make sure your bike is in good working order.
• Helmet: We strongly recommend wearing a well-fitted helmet for all urban cycling.

3. Plan Your Route

• Check Your Route: Double-check the route before setting off—especially where busy junctions are involved.
• Know Bristol Is Hillier Than It Looks: Cycling from the city centre to Clifton Observatory involves a long uphill section.
• Allow Extra Time: Don’t be in a hurry. Give yourself more time than you think you’ll need.

4. Navigating Busy Junctions

• Signal Clearly: Use clear hand signals when turning left or right.
• The Dismount Strategy: If a junction feels too busy, it’s often easier to dismount and use the pedestrian crossings.
• Use Cycle Boxes: At traffic lights, use advanced stop boxes where provided.

5. Watch for Parked Cars and Turning Vehicles

• Avoid the Door Zone: Leave enough room from parked cars in case a door opens suddenly.
• Be Careful Around Large Vehicles: Never sit up the inside of a lorry, van, or bus at a junction.

6. Respect the Elements & Seasons

• Autumn Leaves: Wet leaves can be incredibly slippery. Avoid hard braking.
• Wet Days: Rain increases your braking distance. Leave more space to stop.
• Other Slippery Surfaces: Painted road markings and metal covers can also become very slick.

7. Shared Spaces, Visibility & Road Position

• Pedestrians First: Use a polite ding of your bell to let walkers know you’re behind them.
• Be Seen: Use white front and red rear lights after dark.
• Take a Clear Position: On narrow streets, it’s often safest to ride in a more central position.

8. Riding After Dark

• Use Proper Lights: Make sure you have a white front light and a red rear light—it's the law.
• Reflective Details Help: Reflective clothing or ankle bands can make you easier to spot.
• Plan for Darker Routes: Choose routes you’re comfortable with.

9. Secure Your Ride

• The D-Lock Rule: Use a high-quality D-lock to secure your frame to an immovable stand.
• Lock Smart: If possible, secure a wheel as well as the frame.
• Smart Parking: Choose well-lit areas with plenty of footfall.