If you are concerned about safety or lack confidence in traffic it's worth taking some cycle training to increase your road skills.
You can also find advice and information for children and parents on the cycling and walking to school page.
Getting started
Before getting on your bike
- ask your cycle shop to do a basic roadworthiness check on your bike
- check it is the right height and weight for you
- ensure your bike is suitable for your purposes - a town bike will be quite different to an off-road bike
- make sure there is a place to carry bags if you need them
- cycling can be quite a vigorous activity, so make sure you are physically prepared before you embark on a long journey by doing some simple warm-up stretches.
Equipment you will need
- a safety helmet
- a bell to warn pedestrians and motorists
- front and rear lights and a good red rear reflector for cycling at night and spare batteries
- reflective clothing for cycling after dark
- puncture repair kit and tyre pump
- a small emergency toolkit, with spanners, tyre levers and allon keys
- a sturdy lock
- wet weather gear
- a rucksack for carrying small items.