Cycling in a new place can be daunting. Big buses, confusing signs, scary crossings…we get it. Not to fear you have come to the right place to transform those nerves into cycling confidence!

Let’s start with the basics…

1. Never cycle on the pavement. Cycle on the left-hand side of the road about a metre out from the edge of the road. If you are too close to the gutter you are less visible and it is harder for you to move. You can also ride in the centre of the lane (this is called the primary position) and is more appropriate in slower, urban roads.
2. Stop at red traffic lights. Green means go, orange means caution, and red means stop! You have to stop even if there is no one you are stopping for. You also have to give way to pedestrians at zebra crossings (these are shown by large white stripes across the road).
3. Signal with your arms before you intend to turn or change lanes. Check behind you and then signal. If you are changing lanes or turning to the right you should look, signal, and then move to primary position. This position indicates to drivers you are going to move to the right.
4. If it is dark or very cloudy then you must have lights on your bike on the front and rear. A white light for the front and a red light for the back.

Is it all making more sense now? We hope so!

For more guidance, please see our YouTube tutorial videos. Please also see the Highway Code for Cyclists.