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Bicycles

Date published: 22 February 2023 09:58

Bicycle Safety

There a few simple safety rules, to make sure that you're legal and safe when cycling.

It's the law to:

  • Make sure your lights and reflectors work and are kept clean

  • Have white front and red rear lights lit at night when you are using your bicycle.

What equipment do I need?

It's important that you've got the right equipment before you start cycling. This ensures that you can keep yourself safe while on the road. Some equipment makes it easier for other road users to see you, which protects both yourself and others:

  • A cycle helmet in line with current regulations, in the right size and fastened securely

  • Appropriate clothes for cycling. Try not to wear clothes which could obstruct the chain or wheels, or may cover your lights

  • Light-coloured, reflective or fluorescent clothing and accessories (belt/arm/ankle bands) which help other road users to see you

  • White front and red rear lights MUST be lit at night. Your bike MUST also be fitted with a red rear reflector (and amber pedal reflectors, if manufactured after 1/10/85). White front reflectors and spoke reflectors will also help you to be seen.

  • Flashing lights are permitted but it is recommended that cyclists who are riding in areas without street lighting use a steady front lamp.

For more information about safe cycling, visit the South Yorkshire Safer Road Partnership website.

Bicycle Security

Don't let bike thieves win. Follow these steps to protect your bike, and if stolen, increase the chances of having it returned. Remember to also remove bike accessories before you leave it. Click here to view the full version of the diagram.

A bicycle chained to a post with details of how each part can be kept be safe

What locks should you use?

When deciding which lock to buy you need to consider how much your cycle is worth, where you will be leaving it, and how often and for how long it will be left unattended. Essentially, any lock can be broken, but they can help to deter thieves.

There is a three-tier Gold, Silver and Bronze security grading system developed by Sold Secure (a non-profit making company which assesses security products) and used by many insurance companies. Gold gives maximum security, while Silver and Bronze levels may be lighter and cheaper.

D locks and U locks

D/U locks are by no means thief-proof and are best used in combination with another form of lock. The lock is best used alongside another lock, as in the diagram above.