Cycling Code

Know the Cycling Code!

Wherever you are cycling, make sure you are familiar with the NATIONAL CYCLE NETWORK GOOD CYCLING CODE. For the Isle of Wight Council's road safety information then please click here.

Bike Safe

Following these handy tips, issued by the Isle of Wight Crime and Disorder Reduction

 Partnership (www.saferwight.org ), can help keep your bike safe. The IOW CDRP will be at the launch of the Cycle Festival offering a free bike wrap service (security marking the bicycle using a robust sticky wrap)/

*  Always secure bicycles to a stand if available.  Otherwise use a static object such as a lamp post or railing.

*  Secure your bicycle with a good quality cycle lock.  Details of reputable companies can be found on www.soldsecure.com

*  Marking the bicycle with your postcode and house number acts as a deterrent to theft and assists the police with identifying recovered property.

*  Register your bike at www.immobilise.com

*  Quick release accessories are vulnerable.  Consider replacing the lever with a security bolt or remove them when leaving the bicycle.

*  Lights are made detachable so remove them before a thief does.

*  Keep a note of the bicycle frame number.  This will aid identification should the cycle be recovered by the police.

*  Store a digital photo of the bicycle in a safe place, such evidence is key when police recover property.

For further information on Cycle Theft prevention please visit the Home Office website http://www.homeoffice.gov.uk/crime-victims/how-you-can-prevent-crime/cycle-theft/ , to download the Steer Clear of Cycle Theft Leaflet http://www.homeoffice.gov.uk/documents/SteerClear_CycleV6.pdf

• Fit a bell and use it, don't surprise people 
• Please give way to pedestrians, leaving them plenty of room
• Keep to your side of the dividing line 
• Be prepared to slow down or stop if necessary 
• Don't expect to cycle at high speeds 
• Be careful at junctions, bends and entrances 
• Remember that many people are hard of hearing or visually impaired. Don't assume they can see or hear you 
• Give way where there are wheelchair users and horse riders

On roads

• Always follow the Highway Code 
• Fit cycle lights and use them in poor visibility 
• Keep your bike road worthy 
• Be seen, most cycle accidents happen at junctions 
• Don't cycle on pavements except where designated; pavements are for pedestrians 
• Use you bell, not all pedestrians can see you

And in the countryside

• Follow the Country Code
• Respect other land management activities such as farming or forestry
• Take litter home
• Keep erosion to a minimum if off-road
• Cycle within your capabilities
• Match your speed to the surface and your skills
• Be self sufficient carry food, bike repair kit, map and waterproofs in remote areas

Look after yourself and your bike! 

• In poor light and at night, you should use front and rear bike lights (this is a legal requirement) and wear visible/reflective clothing.
• Cycle helmets are recommended and should fit you properly. Be sure to choose a recognised and certified brand ask your stockist for details.
• You should wear clothing and sunscreen of SPF15+.
• You should have your bike serviced regularly at a professional bike shop to ensure it is roadworthy.
• If you are training for a cycling event, start gradually, particularly if you haven't cycled before or for some time. Always stop if you feel sick or dizzy, over-tired or in pain and make sure you leave at least 30 minutes between eating and exercising.