The Most Common Mistakes Cyclists Make
Cycling is a great way to stay fit, but it’s not without its risks for cyclists.
Here are the 12 most common mistakes cyclists make, and how to avoid them.
1. Not Wearing a Helmet
This is perhaps the most obvious mistake, but also the most common. Cycling without a helmet greatly increases your risk of serious head injury in the event of a fall or collision. Even if you’re an experienced cyclist, it’s not worth taking the risk. Always wear a helmet when cycling, no matter how short or long the ride.
2. Wearing Loose Clothing
Another common mistake cyclists make is wearing loose clothing that can get caught in the pedals or wheels. This can cause you to lose control of the bike and crash. To avoid this, tuck in loose shirts and wear close-fitting clothes that won’t get caught in the machinery.
3. Not Checking Your Bike before a Ride
It’s important to make sure your bike is in good working order before each ride. This means checking the brakes, tires, chain, and other parts to make sure they’re all functioning properly. Doing a quick check before you start riding can help prevent mechanical problems that could cause an accident.
4. Riding at Night without Lights
If you’re going to be riding at night, it’s absolutely essential that you have lights on your bike. This will help you see where you’re going, and also make you more visible to other cyclists and motorists. Without lights, you’re at a much higher risk of being involved in an accident.
5. Riding in Traffic without a Mirror
If you’re riding in traffic, it’s a good idea to have a mirror attached to your bike so you can see what’s going on behind you. This will help you avoid being hit by a car or truck that might otherwise be invisible in your blind spot.
6. Not Signaling When Turning
Whenever you turn, it’s important to signal with your hand so that other cyclists and motorists know what you’re doing. This will help them avoid running into you, and also let them know when it’s safe to pass.
7. Running Red Lights
Running red lights is not only dangerous, but it’s also illegal. It puts you at risk of being hit by a car, and also puts other cyclists and pedestrians in danger. If you’re approaching a light that’s about to turn red, it’s best to slow down and stop rather than trying to make it through the intersection.
8. Not Yielding to Pedestrians
Cyclists are required to yield to pedestrians, just as motorists are. This means giving them the right-of-way when crossing the street or path, and not riding too close or too fast for them to feel safe.
9. Cutting Corners
When taking a corner, it’s important to slow down and take it wide so you don’t lose control of the bike. This is especially true on wet or icy roads, where it’s easy to slide out. Taking corners too sharp can also cause you to collide with another cyclist or pedestrian.
10. Riding the Wrong Way
Riding against traffic is not only illegal, but it’s also extremely dangerous. It’s much harder for motorists to see you when you’re riding in the opposite direction, which puts you at a greater risk of being hit. Always ride in the same direction as traffic, and use bike lanes whenever possible.
11. Not Wearing Reflective Gear
If you’re going to be riding at night or in low-light conditions, it’s important to wear reflective gear so that you’re visible to other cyclists and motorists. This includes reflective vests, armbands, and even reflective tape that can be applied to your bike.
12. Riding under the Influence
Just as it’s not safe to drive a car while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, it’s also not safe to ride a bike. This can impair your judgment and reaction time, making it more likely that you’ll be involved in an accident. If you’ve been drinking, it’s best to find another way home.
Conclusion:
As you can see, there are a number of dangerous things that cyclists can do. By following the tips above, you can help keep yourself safe while riding. Remember to always ride defensively, and be aware of your surroundings at all times. Stay alert, and stay safe!