Share your road safety tips in the comments 🚙🚴

@johnnunn8688

Ай бұрын

Don’t blindly follow fashion, wear a bright top and bright, flashing lights, especially to the rear.

@tconnolly9820

Ай бұрын

​@@johnnunn8688A bright attention grabbing flasher on the front is also essential. Too many bikes are caught at junctions by vehicles turning in who never see the cyclist waiting at line. You need to be virtually unmissable day or night.

@user-qi3uw8rc1w

Ай бұрын

My must-have accessory: handlebar-mounted foghorn. Forget the cutesy bell, no one can claim they didn't see or hear you with that one !

@xaviermoise7187

Ай бұрын

The first point was an excellent and most-important point. I see most cyclists riding on the sidewalk because they just don't know that they are allowed, by law, to be on the road. Bicyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as motor vehicles on roads, with some exceptions (not permitted on highways/expressways). The turning point, when I decided I should be riding on the roads, was when I was blocked by a car trying to turn while I was passing on a crosswalk. I realized the lack of respect that motor vehicles have for cyclists. They don't quite respect you more if you are on the road, but dare anyone to hit you--they won't. The most they will do is honk and aggressively try to get around you by cutting your lane or driving really close (this is why it is also pivotal to know how to assert that the lane is yours). The system of laws set in place to guide correct driving is what I needed to stay safe on the roads, and while cycling in general. Ever since I transitioned to the road I haven't had any incidents, contrasted with the numerous incidents I've had on the sidewalk (for various reasons inherent to a sidewalk). Altogether, I think it's the utmost important to know that you are virtually legally classified as a motor vehicle (without physically being classified as one). And that you should expect some ignorant, aggressive and offensive drivers. The most ambivalent obstacle to inclusion and safety of cyclists on the road is the normalization of it. Once drivers observe that you are a proper part of their driving culture they will intuitively learn that you are supposed to be there, and it may even remind them of what they learned when they took the theory part of the driver's license test.

@johnnunn8688

Ай бұрын

@@tconnolly9820 my point is, if a person can only afford one decent light, have it on the rear.

My top three rules of riding in traffic: 1) always ride as if the drivers cant see you 2) or won't see you 3) or refuse to see you

@gcn

Ай бұрын

Riding like drivers haven't seen you is a great point! It can really help you hold your space and act sensibly

@tconnolly9820

Ай бұрын

As both a cyclist and a driver, it is sometimes very easy not to see someone on a bike especially at night. A driver can be looking directly at you but not actually seen you. You always need a really good flasher on the front as much or more than at the rear. Always be defensive. As a cyclist, when I am driving I try to be as cautious and aware of other cyclists as possible. But sometimes I am still caught by surprise. Everyone can throw blame around but as a cyclist, you have to be extra aware and defensive.

@endcensorship874

Ай бұрын

@@tconnolly9820 You have to be aware and defensive because even the slightest tangle with a vehicle can result in death. A small collision in a car, the air bag deploys, and you most likely are walking away with minor injuries. Cyclists don't have airbags. I speak from experience: I was hit head-on by a car a few years back, and I'm thankful I can say that I lived. I fractured my neck. The car? No damage at all.

@PRH123

Ай бұрын

hmm, there are times when to be safest, you have to make them see you…. take the lane when necessary and situation allows, for example…. Signal your moves vigorously…. etc…

@endcensorship874

Ай бұрын

@@PRH123 there’s a difference between make them see you and do they see you. Sometimes, you can make them see you all you want but they still won’t.

My favourite 10 tips: 1. Commuting is not a race. Ride slower than on your training rides and just enjoy it without needing to rush. Mistakes are more avoidable with time to react. 2. Stay out of the door zone when passing parked cars. 3. On cycle paths, slow when passing dog walkers (and say hi to the dogs!) - people are almost always appreciative of this and it costs mere seconds. 4. Where possible, do training rides out of busy areas - then you can enjoy the Power and Wattage and Smashing some Vs. 5. A camera is a great idea. 6. Hi vis works well in the daytime. Reflective clothing works great at night .Lights work well all the time. Assume you haven't been seen. 7. At the lights, when that boy racer Audi pulls up behind you at the red - and it's the only car behind you - pull to the side when the lights go green and let him race off before you go. Better him in front of you and causing someone else issues! 8. Never engage with angry motorists - not verbally, not physically, no gestures. Keep a clear head and concentrate on riding. Such people are stupid and dangerous and have a 2+ tonne metal weapon. It's not worth it. 9. Say thanks to other road users who show courtesy. 10. Riding is always more enjoyable than driving. When you're tempted to take the car, just remember this.

@JohnSusanSchofield

Ай бұрын

I'd especially stress number 1 and number 4. The road is never a race track even when you are out on a training ride. Obey the rules of the road and be considerate to other road users.

Making eye contact with motorists at side junctions etc makes a difference. See and be seen 👀

@gcn

Ай бұрын

that certainly helps, and giving a fellow road user a thank you always helps too 👍

@richyf8122

Ай бұрын

@@gcn for sure! Manners cost nothing and speak volumes 🙏

@TheGreenhillsCyclist

Ай бұрын

And also hollering a "THANK YOU" when drivers have given you safe passage through a junction, be it taking a right hand turn, left hand turn, straight on etc......

@geoffreyhoney122

Ай бұрын

Are tinted windows illegal in England? Here in North America, they are the bane of safety because you can't make eye contact (and many drivers like it that way). I also holler thank you and give a friendly wave to everyone. It helps all situation, including the aggressive drivers because they don't know what to do with it!

@chris1275cc

Ай бұрын

@@geoffreyhoney122 It's not totally illegal, but the front windscreen/shield must let at least 75% of light through and the front side windows must let at least 70% through, the back side and rear windows can be fully blacked out.

Take primary position (i.e. cycle in the centre of the lane) whenever you believe that the motorist coming out of the side junction, or the one behind you, or the one just about to get out of their parked car, or the one waiting to turn right across your lane, might do something dangerous. Some motorists will go on social media and complain about "cyclists in the middle of the road", but this is an driver education problem, not a problem with this type of cycling.

@bertdinkle3540

Ай бұрын

“Driver education problem” means it’s *your* problem unless you plan on educating every driver on the road.

@phoffen3829

Ай бұрын

@@bertdinkle3540 Not only that, but you can be as correct as can be, but squashed by a motorist anyways. We have to always assume they can't see us, and be in the way as little as possible - I don't care what the "law" says, I want to live. Other than showing yourself at the front of a line at an intersection, I think being defensive, is the way to live, because you can't go up to every motorist, and ask him to just take a deep breath, and tell him he will get there eventually.

@joshuaperry8729

Ай бұрын

Thank you. Dont ride in the gutter. If you give the cars space they will take it.

@phoffen3829

Ай бұрын

@@joshuaperry8729 It is a nice utopian idea, being seen and respected by the cars, but it ain't happening. People get killed all the time "taking the lane". You go ahead and ride the way you see fit though.

@TinyDBass

Ай бұрын

@@phoffen3829 Obviously different behaviours are appropriate in different places, but for me there's nothing utopian about it and it's absolutely safer than hugging the side of the road out-of-sight and out-of-mind of motorists. Just to be clear - I don't do it where I don't need to or on a wide, fast road where it would clearly be putting myself in danger.

Exert dominance by performing a stoppie at every intersection 💯💯

@gcn

Ай бұрын

Hahahah, please stay safe on public roads 👀

@nebulous962

Ай бұрын

That's definitely me. 😀

@feedbackzaloop

Ай бұрын

If you're lucky you can land a rear wheel on someone's hood and teach 'em to keep distance

@tconnolly9820

Ай бұрын

​@@feedbackzaloopAnd if you're not lucky, that vehicle will push you six feet forward into the path of a 40 tonne truck. Do stupid things, win a prematurely early funeral.

@feedbackzaloop

Ай бұрын

@@tconnolly9820 ok, next time I post smth, it will have a "sarcasm" discplamer (actual disclaimer: it won't)

I would add that when signalling, always look over your shoulder BEFORE you signal. I 've lost track of the times someone has tried to overtake me close to a roundabout/ juction and nearly taken my arm off! I also go by 'assume every other road user is an idiot' whether I'm on a bike or driving. That way, I'm prepared for anything.

In California, if there's no dedicated (official) bike lane, the cyclist is supposed to get the 1st lane (w/the curb) and the cars are supposed to take the other one or two outer lanes. It's been on the books for 3 years now. Do you think the 4-wheeled nitwits know that?

@joelweinberger3695

Ай бұрын

Similar law here in Wisconsin but the recent addition of roundabouts is the craziest. Roundabouts were built with no public service announcements on how to use them. Yikes!

@bikecommuter24

Ай бұрын

I live in California and some of the drivers act like we don't belong on the road, I have had Karens in their SUV's honk and yell at me, Even a former radio host said bicycles don't belong on the street but then he hated everything in general 🤣

@elizabethpoley6882

Ай бұрын

@bikecommuter24 I know exactly what you're talking about. On my way to a doctor of mine, the official bike lane ends at Kaiser Hospital. That leaves 3 blocks more til I reach Ventura Blvd., using that 1st lane in the road. The tarmac in the lane is all broken up from the buses that go through, so I don't have much choice other than to go down the middle. Even w/the new law, car drivers are always riding behind me, honking. It used to bother me, but now I just ignore them, act like I can't hear them and hold my line. I figure if they're in such a hurry, they can go around. They're not supposed to be in my lane to begin with. If they don't know the law, it's about time they learn it.

@bikecommuter24

Ай бұрын

@@elizabethpoley6882 exactly the roads I ride on the way are all two lanes each way, go around. I have a bike trial near me but it's two miles north of me and goes nowhere near my place of work. luckily if it gets too bad I can go up on the sidewalk the police in my city don't bother me of course I'm wearing a helmet and safety gear that may or may not make a difference and I'm riding in a nice manner.

@DoNuT_1985

Ай бұрын

Well, we have side-distance regulations for overtakes here in Austria since late 2022, basically 1,50m in town and 2,00m outside but this still hasn't spread around widely. I'm inclined to blame motorists but the truth is, it's on the books, it has been in the media for maybe a week and there hasn't been any sort of campaign that I can recall, so how do you expect people with their last test on traffic rules in 1997 to know? It is basically pointless to change major traffic rules if the change isn't followed by widespread campaigns.

Rear-view mirrors changed how I ride in the city, Philadelphia, PA. It is very busy, and many drivers are unaware of traffic laws for bicycles, and some are outright hostile to bicycles. I'd never ride without a rear-view mirror. It may take only a split second to turn around, but that is too long in nasty traffic.

@gcn

Ай бұрын

Getting lots of love to rear view mirrors in the comments! Maybe we should try some out 👀

@davidhakes5141

Ай бұрын

A lot of vehicles are too quiet and sneaky, when they are coming up behind you. Those rear-view mirrors are a good way to keep an eye on them. And, if I have the wind whistling past my ears, even some big semi trucks are in stealth mode. You can't hear them, until they get right up almost on your back wheel.

@johnnunn8688

Ай бұрын

@@gcnhighly recommend the Cateye bar end. Don’t know about drop but can’t get better for flats.

@robjcroxson

Ай бұрын

Always have my rear view mirror attached when cycling around town - on flat bars. I’m more aware and considerate. Can’t remember the last time I saw another rider use one.

@tconnolly9820

Ай бұрын

I ride a hybrid commuter. I have a great motorbike type mirror on each handlebar. Wide angle view in traffic and great long distance views behind for hundreds of metres. My best bicycle buy ever. And they were only 10 bucks from Amazon a few years ago. There's all sorts of "bicycle" hi tech crap and dedicated overpriced crappy cycling mirrors that are barely useful. Mine are absolutely fantastic and I wouldn't be without them. Although roadies would probably have heart attacks thinking about the additional weight and wind resistance 😅

Knowing how to drive a car and understanding how drivers act and may react on the road is the most useful tool a cyclist can have imo. Makes it much easier to predict what a car/bus may do and also helps with how you should act on the road.

@gcn

Ай бұрын

Having that cross understanding is great! Do you think it makes you give cars more space?

@fenbops

Ай бұрын

@@gcn definitely. As a road user we need to respect each other, be it cycling or driving. Drivers are taught how to deal with cyclists on the road learning to drive and through theory. I don’t think it’s a bad idea for cyclists to have the same understanding even without a driving license.

@Thezuule1

Ай бұрын

@@fenbops it doesn’t go both ways. Most cyclists drive, almost no motorists bike.

@tianyi05

Ай бұрын

@@Thezuule1 Problem is most cyclists ride like they have never driven a car. They ride in blind spots. Seem to have no idea how long it takes a car/truck to stop or change lanes. This from some with over 150,000 miles on a bike.

@dasreicht

Ай бұрын

@@gcnit makes me more likely to prioritise myself over drivers' convenience, as I appreciate just how easy sitting in a car is, and how little issue there is with going slowly for a little while!

I have been riding for +20 years in traffic and here is some of my pro tips for new biker: 1) Signal for left/right turns. 2) For a full stop hands up flat like giving someone a high-5. 3) Be aware of your surroundings that means no headphones that stop you from hearing the traffic. 4) Eye contact with the driver through the car window or side mirror if they are about to make a turn on your lane and you want to go straight. 5) Respect larger vehicles such as buses, trucks and vans since they have A LOT of blind angles. (That is where no. 4 is good.) 6) Always make sure you can be seen on the road when the night falls - such as yellow jacket/360 reflection jacket, front and rear light. Keep on the good work :) and hello from Denmark.

hat's off to anyone who can ride in traffic. I had to get on some back street with barely any traffic few days ago, that along was enough to freak me out.

1. Always signal at an intersection 2. Always pay attention to everything around you 3. If a car gets to a stop sign at a multi-way stop just before you, and it's just the two of you, stop pedaling and just coast for a moment. That will often prompt the car to proceed through the intersection. Then you can treat the now-empty intersection as a yield sign, you can slow down and roll through it, or you can stop and get right back going (I won't judge). All are better than the car just sitting there, making you stop completely to then wait for that person to go (because they never give cyclists any signal indicating their intentions). 4. If you approach a stop sign on a road with no bike lane or shoulder and a car behind you accelerates to try to force his way next to you with a few inches to spare, just move a bit toward the center of the lane and take your lane. If they wind up next to you at the stop sign anyway and there's no oncoming traffic, just keep going for your own safety. 5. Ride in a predictable manner 6. Use lights front and back

@gcn

Ай бұрын

Good tips Rich! How long have you been riding to pick up these tricks?

@RichM3000

Ай бұрын

@@gcn Thanks. I enjoy your videos. I've been riding about five years now. One thing I noticed right away that I hadn't expected is cars behind me accelerating either to tie me to stop signs or to just barely complete a pass and then cutting right in front of me (and then slamming on the brakes right at that moment due to the stop sign). The day a full size pickup just missed me with his mirror [the law in my state (US) mandates three feet to pass, but do drivers know that?], I realized right away a more assertive approach was needed.

My experience from being a bike messenger, and cycle commuter: 1. Be predictable. If you're going to deviate from a straight course, signal your intention. 2. When approaching a junction with traffic that may turn into your lane, ride in the non-curb side of the lane. It makes you more visible, and gives you more space to maneuver if a collision seems imminent. 3. Never trust a car's turn signal. Make eye contact with the driver and signal your intent when you know they're watching. 4. Where possible, choose roads in your route that keep you close to the speed of traffic. 5. Ride with your head on a swivel. No matter who had right of way, in any collision, the cyclist always loses.

Always map out a ride if there is a certain destination because there could be roads with less traffic

@gcn

Ай бұрын

Great point! Finding that route away from the main roads can be a great way to build confidence and road safety

@Blaze16159

Ай бұрын

Just mapped a new route and rode it a couple of hours ago as a matter of fact

Greetings from Singapore! When I’m planning a route I like to scout it out using google maps’ street view so I can see if there’s anything sketchy, or if the “quiet” road Bikemap is trying to take me has loads of lanes of busy traffic. And adjust the route or my expectations accordingly! Stay safe everyone, and be nice and courteous to everyone else out there!

@gcn

Ай бұрын

Oooo that's interesting! Have you ever tried using Strava to find popular bike paths? That can be a great way of finding good local routes and roads

@delorangeade

Ай бұрын

I do the same thing in the UK, also taking note of what time the videos were shot with regard to how busy a road might be.

Great tips. I couldn't agree more to staying in the middle of the road when riding through corners to avoid unsafe overtaking by other road users😅. I use a side mirror as well, it's helps me see what's behind me all the time.

@gcn

Ай бұрын

Owning that road space can seem daunting but it can really help in the long run

I got left hooked by a driver driving directly into the sunset this past Monday evening and broke my neck, among other things. Sometimes there's nothing you can do to avoid a collision.

@johnnunn8688

Ай бұрын

‘Left hooked’? You were going straight and the tw@t turned left across you?

@harryrowland4734

Ай бұрын

I was about to have a moan about the within inches close pass this morning, caught up at the traffic lights, they were green, unfortunately she was too busy with her phone to notice. Sorry about your broken neck, get better soon.

@malcontent456

Ай бұрын

​@@johnnunn8688That's exactly what happened. She was driving director towards the setting sun which was at my back and even though she obviously couldn't see, she made the turn at speed and rocked my world.

@DavidMartin-tk4fs

Ай бұрын

That's harsh, I hope you recover soon and fully. 🙏 A girl did that to me in my car. I was OK but the car got spun and it's rear subframe ripped out. She wasn't bothered about me but burst into to tears when I opened the boot lid to reveal.... 🐶🐶 They were ok. Just annoyed they didn't get their walk on the beach. Get well soon!

@Thezuule1

Ай бұрын

Hope she at least stopped and you get some lawsuit money. Maybe that will learn her to drive better.

Make sure you are visible! My bike has proper reflectors, but also lights that are always on even during daylight (flashing).

@gcn

Ай бұрын

Day time running lights are a great idea! Do you feel safer with them on?

@DavidMartin-tk4fs

Ай бұрын

I have a flouro orange and yellow bike and always have lights on as soon as it starts to get dark. My cycling kit always has high contrast yellow and black and I usually wear flouro yellow overshoes. I might look daft but I know I get seen!

@Thezuule1

Ай бұрын

@@DavidMartin-tk4fsI dress like a clown person whenever I go out.

@DavidMartin-tk4fs

Ай бұрын

@@Thezuule1 do you ride a unicycle too?

@GrahamLock-bl4ts

Ай бұрын

@@DavidMartin-tk4fs Much better to look daft than end up in hospital due to a "SMIDSY" (Sorry Mate - I Didnt See You)......

Thanks so much for the video GCN,cycling to work is getting more stressful nowdays and I'm using a road bike now with thinner tyres but will be getting wider soon,i find a tail light helps a lot with cars in traffic.💯👌🏻✌🏻🚴💪🏻

@gcn

Ай бұрын

The wider tyres should give you more confidence 🙌 Even with it being busy, do you enjoy the commute?

Always good to give a thumbs up to motorists and drivers when they have held back and overtaken safely 👍

Great video, full of good tips to keep everyone as safe as possible. I am a very defensive rider and do everything I can to make sure I'm seen on the roads. Even more so when I'm covering the rear of a group ride for my local cycling group, I take slightly more of the lane to keep any overtaking traffic further away from the other members. Im also constantly scanning the road both in front and behind, again for the safety of my friends. I'd add another vote for flashing lights and bright colours during the day as well as night. Our group marshal kit is a bright orange jersey and rain coat so there's really no excuse for drivers to not see me at 5'11" and 100kg, wearing them...

Nice video on how to handle traffic, but in every scene you guys are in all black kit, black bike. Being seen is surely a key point in remaining safe when out on the roads, colourful/fluro kit all day long for me, being seen is #1.

@sMMAshzilla

Ай бұрын

Wearing black is only a problem at night. It's all about your surroundings. Wearing green whilst cycling through the countryside, as example, is much like wearing black at night.

@gcn

Ай бұрын

That's a great point, being seen can be really important - did you catch Si's video on fluro 👉kzread.info/dash/bejne/ZWd70siNh8fRaLg.html Some really interesting points in there 👀

@paulhorrell1118

Ай бұрын

@@sMMAshzilla Wear fluo green or orange. In the countryside cycling into the sun, when a rider wearing dark clothing goes into the shadow of a tree or hedge, they won't be seen by a driver approaching from behind when they're blinded by the sun. A rider wearing dark clothes in town overtaking between traffic and the kerb - in a bus or cycle lane - also needs to be bright because the driver won't see them approaching in the mirror if the mirror is dirty or wet or dazzled by the sun. If they then turn into a side road the cyclist will be in danger of hitting them. You might think you look silly in bright uniform colour, but you'll feel silly in an ambulance. Road safety experts and police say the most common cause of accidents is SMIDSY: "Sorry mate I didn't see you".

@sMMAshzilla

Ай бұрын

@@paulhorrell1118 Some fair points, especially the shadows from trees (or tree tunnels). Btw, I'm lit up like a Christmas Tree at all times 😂 Lights on front and back, as well as on the helmet.

@munchingsquirrel5067

Ай бұрын

Thank you! I'm surprised I had to scroll so far to find a comment about the guys wearing black. At least have flashing front and rear lights if you're going to wear black.

Absolutely great tips! One thing that helps a lot is to have a mirror, such a small and cheap accessory but makes so much difference when riding!

@gcn

Ай бұрын

Lots of love for the mirror! Hank would just spend too much time looking at himself 😉

Super helpful tips and tricks Manon, Hank & gcn!!! Never heard of 'filtering' here in Ontario, but its seems obvious in your video. One of the most helpful techniques I learned as a CANBIKE safety instructor is 'Destination Positioning'. The concept is to 'position you and your bike where you want to go' especially across intersections (junctions) or beside parked cars (straight line 1m out from cars and no swerving in to the curb and out again inbetween spaced out parked cars. Be predictable. Love that you use the most appropriate hand signals (arm out in either direction). Here in North America, many still use the now discouraged Left hand up for a Right turn which can be easily confused with waving "Hi" to your Great Aunt Martha. An archaic holdover from the days when cars didn't have turn signals. Also, p.s. really love that you are adding 'Ex Pro Cyclist' to the names in the video. That should silence the asinine sexists gits who questioned Manon's obvious expertise in one of her videos. Well done. Love this very practical, useful type of video.! More please!

@elij1150

Ай бұрын

i always assumed the left hand up for right turns is because most people are right-handed. controlling the bike one-handed, especially while slowing down and entering a turn, is much harder if you can only use your non-dominant hand.

@gcn

Ай бұрын

Great to hear you enjoyed the video 🙌 Thanks for sharing the rules in your area, it's always super interesting to see how things change across countries! Do you enjoy riding on your local roads?

@geoffreyhoney122

Ай бұрын

@@gcn Yes I ride to the shops and around our city of Hamilton Ontario but there is not enough protected bike infrastructure for me to relax. I do it, but am always on 'High Alert'. To relax, I take advantage of the rail trails in our area. No cars to worry about then:)

Well again, I love Mannon!! Let's go team Mannon.

@gcn

Ай бұрын

We're all team Manon 🙌

I've been riding in traffic for over 50 years now and I've not had many accidents. My top tips are... 1. Eye contact with the drivers is important. It helps them see you as a human. 2. Don't ever freewheel. I think drivers are more likely to pull out in front of you if you are freewheeling than if you are pedalling 3. Leave a big gap between you and parked cars. Bonus tip. Avoid cycling on Christmas Eve or the day before Good Friday. People are even more impatient on those days.

@BC-wj8fx

Ай бұрын

Freewheeling also makes you invisible. As GCN said before humans are tuned into human motion. Reflective strips on the shoes or pants help this. Agreed, holiday traffic is the danger zone.

Very informative. Thanks. Although the title is how to handle traffic, I'm actually quite surprised that daytime lights aren't mentioned. Anything that helps other road users see you assists the handling - especially if you aren't wearing high vis. I cycle and drive through country lanes where trees form tunnels that reduce visibility. Even in bright sunshine a cyclist in dark clothing without lights can merge into the background.

This is a great video for beginner cyclist.

A useful aid if used wisely is a 'radar' device for the back of the bike. A game-changer for me.

@ecopennylife

Ай бұрын

My small Zefal mirror works fantastic 😊

Thanks JLW , Manon , and crew...how about lights ? I am older , when I ride the roads , I use a white flasher in the front , and my Garmin Varia ...for shits and giggles....In the city , a big orange whistle , to stop pedestrians , doors , and general insanity in a tourist situation , head on a swivel !

UK - I move to the middle of the lane when approaching traffic islands, this will generally deter car drivers from trying to overtake you. Though, it won't stop some drivers from going to the other side of the traffic island to overtake, which has happened to me quite a few times. I live in Berkshire!!!

Videos like this make me really appreciate living in The Netherlands with our cycling infrastructure. Good overall tips though!

@gcn

Ай бұрын

Don't rub it in 😔 We wouldn't want to fight with those headwinds though 😉 kzread.info/dash/bejne/q6KIwdxshKiwmcY.html

@wimpie031

Ай бұрын

@@gcn That race is insane, reminds me of my school commutes 🤣. Shame it got called off because there was toó much wind though, but great you guys went for it regardless!

Nice Tips! Thanks! I usually ride to the side to give vehicles room to pass but, I've heard people watching videos yell at me for not riding more in the middle of the road. Now I see you at GCN are suggesting to ride more in the muddle too. 2:05 Manon said carry on sickling instead of cycling...haha!

@Saftkeur

Ай бұрын

It might seem dangerous to take up road space, but often it's even more risky to ride on the shoulder, because a driver might not see you early enough or might just assume you'll stay there the whole time so they'll make dangerously close passes. And that's also not factoring in that you might need to swerve back out to avoid parked cars, potholes, debris, etc; better to already be out where the other drivers can see you! Personally, I try to ride with that 1-meter gap (enough space to dodge a pothole or an opening door from the side, etc), but if I have space available, I move over _after_ I see the driver behind me is committing to a safe pass. Making sure they know they have to move out into the other lane to safely pass me, and then just scooting over a bit myself so there's that extra bit of room (some drivers only go halfway into the other lane to pass, or they come back across slightly too early, so I'd rather not have a close call if I have the space to avoid it). It's about being courteous to the other road users around you, but never at the cost of your own safety.

shoulder check AKA life saver check! compusly on motorbike tests! stay safe.

As a 36 year old who has been cycling to get myself around for the last 30 years in Australia (mum got sick of hiding from my teachers in school to explain my behaviour) I can say the best piece of advise I got was to treat everyone else out on the road as if they were paid assassins out to get me. These days I refuse to ride on any sort of main road however just because of how impatient everyone has become. I felt a lot safer on the roads when I was a kid than I do now.

My top priority is being seen, not only in terms of lights and clothing, but also road position. You should however, never assume you have been seen and try to form a plan B for the eventuality that a driver does fail to see you.

A couple of tips from my days teaching people to ride motorbikes... When filtering always look ahead and make sure you've got somewhere to go so that you're moving from one position of safety to another. Apart from looking behind you before you signal take a lifesaver check; a final look alongside the bike in whichever direction you're about to turn before you commit to make sure it's still safe to manoeuvre. One day you might find out why it's called a lifesaver check.

Lights and bright cloths...

@Tailspin80

Ай бұрын

I find everyone sees me but some think if they miss me by a couple of inches it’s fine.

@Thezuule1

Ай бұрын

@@Tailspin80 reach over and give them a little love smack to make your point. Scares the shit out of people and then they know how they made you feel.

@Tailspin80

Ай бұрын

@@Thezuule1 Years ago (when KZread allowed them) I saw a video of a motorcyclist giving a kick to a close passing HGV. He instantly lost his balance and disappeared under the back wheels. No, if someone is close passing me at speed it’s head down, hold straight and level in case of potholes etc. and wait for the moment to pass.

I really love my Garmin Varia, I still double check before crossing, but it's great to get a heads up especially when wind blocks a sound from behind. I also try to make eye contact with a driver in a car/bus/truck. Even if you have the right of way, be careful because there are drivers out there that don't think cyclists ever have the right of way - they are wrong, but won't end up in the hospital doing wrong. Don't gamble your health or your bicycle.

I wear bright fluorescent cycling gloves regardless of what other kit i have on. I admit its a minor improvement, but does make hand signals more visible, especially at dusk / dawn.

Always use a rear-view mirror while on the bike. Always use front and rear lights. Encourage others that you ride with to do the same, it makes the whole group saver.

excellent... what do you think about the use of bright cycling jersey? thank u

I’m terrified of traffic. I’ve spent the entire last year on the turbo because of it. Watching this with anticipation. Really want to get more confident.

radar on back light helps.

My rules for riding in a big city like Mumbai is: 1) Stay on the left. 2) be prepared for a LOT OF NOISE 3) Pray you don’t get run over by a car because nobody is stopping for you unless you’re at a traffic light

Manon’s point of never assume is key. I ride what’s called defensively and signal to drivers as much as possible. I’ll even pull over on small two lane roads and let the flow of traffic go first. But man, it’s hard sometimes

As someone who cycles as often and have started to more as I don’t drive. 1.be aware of all road users and don’t always asssume there’s space for bikes at the front as some drivers stop in those bike boxes. 2. Be aware of long veichles. I find if you’re going to overtake a bus only if you know it safe to do so signal. 3. Never be on a inside of a bus or lorry etc 4. Don’t trust all cycle lanes and wear reflective gear and try to have some sort of lights. I had litreally just come straight from a round and the cycle lane was on the left lane but a car turned its indicator on too late to go into the side road. But suddenly stopped. I think he either noticed my helmet lights or reflective jacket. Because I slowed down thinking he wasn’t going to see me.if I wasn’t wearing reflective he probably wouldn’t of seen me 5. In towns be aware of phone zombies (pedestrians that don’t listen to your bell and walk straight into road without listening) 6. Wear a helmet camera. I’ve found drivers seem to be a lot more respectful when you have a helmet camera. 7. On cycle paths if you ever encounter dogs off leash just stop and ask their owner if there ok with bikes as not all dogs like bikes 8. Follow all the laws required 9. I don’t know if this is true where you guys are based but in my area of England. Some of the buses have stops where they wait for 5 mins. Most buses if they’re going to pull out normally indicate but be careful and I find it’s always better to give way to the buses.

Consider that when drivers yell at you as a cyclist (or throw things or do anything else unpleasant and dangerous), it's not all bad since it means that they see you. (Here in the States as cyclists, we have to constantly practice positive thinking while riding.)

@Thezuule1

Ай бұрын

Yeah…. Love being an American.

Be wary of sight blockers (vans/walls/hedges) close to the road use your bell when approaching and maximise your distance from objects which block sight lines

I never filter on the inside of a traffic queue, that's just asking for trouble. I also would never "wave through" an overtaking vehicle as I think that's not my decision, alternatively I will put my hand out to stop them if I can see an oncoming vehicle that I think they can't.

@we1rd92

Ай бұрын

Same, wave them through and if something happens they blame you. Put your hand out if it's not safe and they will thank you by giving more space.

@xaviermoise7187

Ай бұрын

The 'wave-through' is the 'give-way' symbol. It's telling them that you need them to pass or that you are allowing them to for whatever circumstance necessary. I sometimes use it when I need to make a lane change when there is oncoming traffic, as sometimes just giving the right/left turn signal isn't adequate.

@southwirralcyclist1986

Ай бұрын

Some years ago, I waved one driver through and they ambled by such that they were still on the wrong side of the road approaching the next bend and narrowly missed a vehicle coming the other way. I agree therefore, that you should be cautious about waving vehicles through, as some drivers won't accelerate quickly enough to execute the overtake safely, within the length of road available to them. Leave the overtake decision to them. It can help to turn and look at the driver though, so they know you're expecting them to pass.

Something I learned while learning to drive that’s really come in useful when cycling on the roads: always keep an eye on what the wheels of a car are doing. While it’s good to make eye contact with a driver, watch the wheels of a car. You can’t see their steering wheel or their pedals, but you can see the outcome of what drivers do with their pedals and their wheel through the wheels of the car. That often helps me predict what a car might be about to do.

To help me see the oncoming trafic behind me, I got a Garmin Varia for this purpose. It's one of the best investments I've done for riding my bike, and it can see cars far enough before I can hear them.

@gcn

Ай бұрын

Lots of people love the Varia

It's always best to know the traffic rules, road signs for both Cycling and Driving. Defensive Cycling putting Safety above the rest is important.

Keep your distance from parked cars even if it means riding in the center of the lane. Getting doored by someone who didn't check their mirrors (or simply wasn't careful) is no laughing matter.

@Thezuule1

Ай бұрын

Especially if you’re fast.

@gcn

Ай бұрын

Would you like to see the dutch reach adopted more?

Over here e.g. in Brasil it is quite challenging to ride your bike in a safe way. Especially knowing that you are by law not allowed to ride faster than 20km an hour on a bike line besides the road and as a cyclist who wants to train you are obliged to ride in the middle of the road joining motor vehicle. Than I ride in the middle of the lane actually to claim my space on the road and also to prevent unsafe overtaking. There are some special training lanes but there we have to take in consideration the local wildlife

How to handle traffic when cycling: Live literally anywhere other than America. Sucks here. Need to find a good place to move to with biker friendly commuting.

@Thezuule1

Ай бұрын

Americans are relatively terrible in general. Too many people are self centered and in a big hurry to go nowhere. I say this as an American lol.

I got hit by a truck turning left who didn't yield to me in an intersection as I was going straight when my light was green. No sun in their eyes, no nothing other than 'I was just following the car in front of me'. I think my biggest lesson from that was fr fr, always always assume they don't see you and be UTMOST cautious with intersections of any kind

When indicating, place your hand that's still on the bars as close to the stem as possible. You'll get more balance this way, especially if you're a beginner.

Double car entries (2 car width are lethal on roundabouts) where a dual carriageway meets a roundabout- motorists have limited vision, if you’re on the roundabout, so allow give way lines at least 5-6feet if you can. Also an open hand signal behind you effectively making a pushing movement has saved me from over pushy drivers behind and they back off and give you room for safe manoeuvre. Also just be predictable and very purposeful in your movements, this helps drivers understand your intentions and your ‘riding line’. Whatever silly drivers do, keep your cool and stay calculating- ultimately you maintain control and the upper hand, you’ve no chance against a motor vehicle.

was kinda scary to do this yesterday because there was alot of fresh snow where i live but it was okay. studded mtb tires are amazing for those conditions. :D

@gcn

Ай бұрын

Stay steady out there! 👀 Are there less cars on the snowy roads?

@nebulous962

Ай бұрын

@@gcn not really. alot of cars always.

My top tips are 1) use your ears. You can tell if a car is going to overtake you but the engine noise. That’s why I never cycle with headphones. 2) Always make eye contact with drivers looking to pull out ahead of you. That way you’re sure they’ve seen you. 3) I never cycle through or past a line of traffic. I just hold my position in the queue. It is slower, but I think, a lot safer.

Can you please make a "how to ride straight" video, too? I ride road bikes since 2017 but today on my way to work, I wasn't concentrated for a moment, swerved to the left on my gravelbike and right into a wall next to the cycling path. No straight crash and just a few scratches (luckily not on the bike) but this raises some questions.... 😁😁😁

@gcn

Ай бұрын

Oooof sounds nasty! Rest up... we hope the bike isn't too scratched up

Many things are universal for your safety, but many things also severely depend on where you are actually biking. Or let's say, whether you are biking in North America and everywhere else. I am not saying that everyone in North America will try to kill you on a bike, but I believe there is a non-zero chance of you encountering one like that. I have never had that issue in Japan, Taiwan, or in Europe. I like Ollie's "dominant" riding, I call it assertive riding. Claim the space that you need for safe riding. Ride as predictable as possible, and communicate what you want to do. Say, you want to turn left, you put your left arm out. If a car is just close behind you and you are not sure whether he/she is going to pass, turn around and POINT at them. Filtering is great. but never ever, under no circumstances, filter a truck on the right side (or left in Japan and UK and so on). Half of the cycling deaths in NYC last year (2023) where due to cyclists being caught on right turns by trucks. If you know an intersection, i.e., you know how the traffic lights are switched, what the flow is, and so on, it might sometimes be safer to give yourself an early start. The dangerous cars are not in front, they are behind you. Wear visible clothing (no, black is not a high-visibility color). Use lights. And always remember: If you make a mistake, you are dead. If the car makes a mistake, you are still dead.

Thanks GCN! I have a question. Have you considered a clip showing the safe and legal way to turn right at a roundabout? I’m old now(60). As a child we took the cycling proficiency test. We were taught to go to the centre of the lane when approaching a roundabout to turn right. (Signalling right)Then we were supposed to signal left to go to the outside of the lane to continue straight on after completing the turn. But I sometimes feel that car drivers are confused by this. Thankfully the vast majority are polite and patient. But it is quite often a dicey move. The traffic is much busier, faster and often quieter these days. Sometimes I feel safer hugging the left of the lane all the way.

@DavidMartin-tk4fs

Ай бұрын

Sounds right to me, and the only reason a driver would be confused by it is because they have forgotten how drive properly because they should be doing the exact same thing but sooo often don't!

I always try to make my intentions very clear. But people on the phone don't care. I also use the dorky mirror that pops in the bottom of a drop bar.

ROAD SPACE - If it's a narrow road, I sometimes wait and allow entering traffic to clear before proceeding. It allows them to go without worrying about me, I get a good run down hill and have plenty of time to make any climbs.

Please make this video in London, specially around oxford street or the eastern part.

I’m especially vigilant at junctions/roundabouts. I have come close to being T Boned a few times over the years. My heart rate doubles when I approach them

@gcn

Ай бұрын

Have you learned any tricks to make them less stressful?

Having been knocked off my bike a few times the biggest bit of advice I would give is do whatever you can to be seen, don't hide and never assume you have been seen.

@gcn

Ай бұрын

That's a great point, acting predictably is a must 👀

Cycling in traffic is a delicate dance between defensive cycling ie thinking for others, foresight, perception and spacial awareness but the single most important aspect is knowing when to dominate your space and doing so safely. For example, If Im coming up to a parked car and have a car aproaching from behind, if there is enough space between the approaching car and myself, I will signal that Im entering the lane and ride the center of the lane until the road side obstical is passed.

Try to ensure you are in the right gear for the situation ahead, preferably a lower one. It's a lot easier to respond to a problem if you can turn the pedals more quickly and a lot easier to control the bike if you are not trying to force the power through an oversize gear.

The route planning app Strava? Thought you were going to say Komoot!

On the subject of awareness, my advice is to try to always establish eye contact with the other users of the road your crossing paths with, whether they are motorists, other cyclists or pedestrians. It's important to see, to be seen and to let others know you're seeing them.

Life saver look, just before you turn.

What are your thoughts on protective gear in road cycling? Other than a helmet, what would be reasonable - knee/elbow pads, gloves, etc. considering disadvantages aerodynamics, ventilation, mobility?

@Thezuule1

Ай бұрын

Helmet and gloves are about it. Pads are unlikely to help and you're going to look ridiculous.

Ok!!! I have been a bike Commuter in the state of Florida... I was surprised to see you all commuting with black cycling attire. Black recedes, wear hi vis clothing. Also, rear and frontal Multiple Lights. You want to be visible for vehicles and others

One of those funny things isn't it? Filtering up the inside isn't safe and yet that's where the painted cycle lanes go, which cars routinely encroach on anyway. Nice video.

When I first learned to drive in the late 1980s, my dad (and the drivers’ manuals of the time) emphasized defensive driving. I apply a lot of that not to just driving but to when I’m riding my bike. Unfortunately, over the last 35 years, defensive driving has given way to offensive driving. Whenever I’m operating a vehicle, I also think of what I used to tell my older tennis players (I used to coach HS tennis for 7 years), and that is “Bigger kids look out for the littler kids.” I always try to do my best to look out for the physically smaller road users-motorcyclists, bicyclists, and pedestrians. Sadly, that, too, seems to have given way to “It’s all about me,” and “I need to get past you because you’re in my way.” If there was just more concern for others, things would be so much better.

Trying to be a more effective cyclist (i.e. learning how to ride your bike better) frees up bandwidth to look around you and anticipate. Look and listen for traffic, and don't assume that people driving cars aren't looking down at their phones because you do it too, when you're driving a car. We're all in this together.

@gcn

Ай бұрын

Bike handling skills will go a long way 🙌 These skills might help 👉kzread.info/dash/bejne/k4qrsZiEibuymtI.html

Don't act chaotic squirrel or hide like a mouse - be human. That's all you basically need on the road and everywhere else

@gcn

Ай бұрын

There is something to be said for holding your own on the road 🙌 Confidence is great

@Saftkeur

Ай бұрын

Exactly. To a newbie it might seem like it's safer to dip onto the shoulder whenever there's space, but you need to be mindful that up ahead might be parked cars, road debris, or simply no more shoulder and you'll be forced to join the driving lane again anyway, potentially without warning. Much better to simply hold your spot on the lane so you're not making things _more_ dangerous by suddenly popping out from behind a parked car where a driver didn't see you, making unexpected moves, etc.

@nickgoodall578

Ай бұрын

I have plenty of (far too much) confidence. But the one that gets me is oncoming traffic in a narrow street. I tend to hold the lane in an effort to force the car ahead to stop since if I just pull over the tend to accelerate towards me. But I’m aware that I’m trying to “force” a 2500 lb car to slow down by existing in the road. I’m literally one interesting text away from annihilation!

@Thezuule1

Ай бұрын

@@Saftkeurthe cars behind you will provide plenty of dangerous while complaining you’re a road hog without one iota of understanding why you’re in the lane. It is 100% the only correct thing to do, but motorists think “share the road” means you need to get off the road, now.

@BC-wj8fx

Ай бұрын

"All you basically need" except it's not all you need. You can act like a proper road user and you can still be knocked off by an idiot. Because idiots don't need you to be idiots. E.g. often I see these drivers blowing straight through a stop sign, one after the other, on a blind side street, not slowing at all, just blindly following the car in front. They should be able to see you if you both act like legitimate road users, but they don't act like legitimate road users. You need a 6th sense, 7th sense even. Expect the impossible to happen (staring into the whites of a driver's eyes in broad daylight, wearing white & fluoro, bright lights flashing, and they still pull out when you are only metres away)

A little trick i use at traffic lights is I go when the count down clock for the pedestrians crossing hits 0 (+1sec). You get a 2 second head start over everybody

@johnnunn8688

Ай бұрын

As long as you don’t cross the stop line……..

@jc2685

Ай бұрын

Another hack use the pedestrian crossing when theres a green man and re-enter onto the road

@matthew7419

Ай бұрын

That's a really bad idea. A lot of people run red lights. You are liable to get hit by a speeding vehicle.

@jc2685

Ай бұрын

@matthew7419 i never go past the red lights. I'm in motion right when it turns Amber. Be sure you get the order right. Left to right (or right to left) 1st, 2nd pedestrians (green man), then 3rd your turn.

@matthew7419

Ай бұрын

@@jc2685 The only thing that matters is where a moving car is.

I learned the hard way about taking up the lane of traffic. Hey if I have to drive 10 mph driving behind a kabota or garbage truck, cars can have a little patience driving behind cyclists, amiright?

The faster you bike (say over 20 mph/10 kph), the less visible you will be and the harder it is for you to steer. Go slower (5 mph/ 2 kph) wherever there is mixed traffic. When in an urban setting, think about investing in a rear view mirror, either attached to your helmet, eyeglasses or a handlebar. If you cycle long distances at full speed in rural areas, think about investing in radar which will give you advance warning so that you will have time to slow down or speed up as necessary.

I'll add one that kind of made me chuckle... I found that, if I take the lane in traffic, it is better for me to drop a gear and pedal faster than to use the higher gear and pedal slower. I think motorists like seeing my legs go faster--"At least he's trying to go fast".

Wear something bright. Red or Orange. Not black. In the Highway Code, there is advice to wear a bright and flouro body belt or Sam Browne. I were my club jersey. White with green, black and gold bands. British Standards require front and rear reflectors. Big reflector under saddle or on rear mudguard.

Always remember these two important words “Safety First” when cycling to commute. Also, as someone who drives a car but usually rides the bike to commute, don’t take risk in speeding up and plunging in to get out of traffic. Be cautious and always have safety gear and equipment on your bike and you too. Which is also a good reminder for me as well. ❤

@gcn

Ай бұрын

Staying sensible is always advised - ride within your limits and be predictable 🙌

@MatthewMabborang

Ай бұрын

@@gcn yes indeed! Precaution is better than cure 😊

Never ever use headphones when riding in public traffic so you can hear upcoming traffic and notice if the vehicle behind you has recognised you and oncoming traffic. If the driver behind you doesn't slow down prepare to be overtaken extremly tight. Using a backlight is also helpful, even in daylight conditions.

Make yourself as visible as possible and make sure you can hear the traffic around you.

I've been riding for years now, while living in three countries (USA, UK, Canada) and I have now developed a sixth sense of drivers. I can tell what they are going to do before they do it, based on theirs and my positions and their engine noise. This is why I do NOT ride with headphones in. I do occasionally use the bone conducting ones on really long (century plus) rides, but they leave your ears open to traffic noise. Do be careful though, you can still have that set too loud and override the ambient noises you need to hear. I also firmly believe that if a driver is behind you honking their horn, or yelling at you, as stressful as it is, they have seen you, and they are not going to hit you. Most drivers will not take that to the next level which is an actual assault. If they are honking at you and yelling, and then hit you, that is no longer an accident, it is an assault. I ride with cameras. One front, and one back. Well, 2 back now, new cameras. It does happen though. I've had 2 actual assaults on me as I was riding over my 20+ years. One in the UK and one here in the US. I have also had a gun pulled on me (separate incident to the assault), but that's more of a US thing. My biggest advice is to get in touch with a local club, even if you feel you are not "good enough" to ride with them (you are, trust me, they have levels of rides). They will be a fountain of good advice for your specific area for routes and local laws. The police here where I ride have agreed with the clubs that on club rides stops signs can be used as a yield sign, but red lights are ALWAYS a stop. They do tend to let smaller groups and individual or paired cyclists follow this as well, but outside of a club ride you take your chances. This is law in some places, but here in Florida our overlord De Santis doesn't seem to like ANYTHING environmental or not cars. My second biggest tip is to relax. Just relax. Breath. You will get better! You will get more confident! It becomes fun, truly.

JUNCTIONS or INTERSECTIONS - If a stop, I roll it if safe to do so. Lighted, I jump the signal or proceed if clear. People get angry, but I'm out of the intersection / junction.

Adapt the Highway Code’s mirror, signal, manoeuvre. Look over your shoulder, clear hand signal, move with confidence. If you act confidently everyone is clear on your intentions.

props to the editors for the Wilhelm scream

Some other thoughts: always wear the brightest color jersey (if even one more driver sees you it's worth it); if it's a road you frequently ride, plan ahead for trouble spots; and NEVER ASSUME what a driver will or won't do. Polite drivers abound, but it takes only bad one to ruin your day. Finally, use hands signals whenever you can.

Add flashing lights front and back

@MissMuffin-qc8fc

Ай бұрын

Disqualifies in most european countries. Heh police leaves you alone if you have any light and not run all the reds.

CLOTHING - I wear BRIGHT colors, crazy stuff, to be SEEN. I even select the jerseys based on the foliage so as not to blend in. Not the black we see Manon and James wearing (sorry, too many people wear black and simply disappear).

I saw a video once of bus drivers being made to stand and have their buses pass them with 1.5m distance. It changed how they saw other road users! Just back from a ride. 2 close passes by cars (on both occasions passed next to continuous white line at the brow of a hill with oncoming traffic), and overtaken by a truck with low-loader in a 30mph zone which then had to cut in sharply in front as there was a width restrictor. The driver made zero allowance for me, which meant a quick bunny-hop onto the kerb to watch the road I was about to use being taken up by the wheels of the low-loader ... grim! And there's me fully obeying the Rules of the Road, rear light and bright orange gillet ...

@gcn

Ай бұрын

That video is very interesting 👀 Sorry to hear you had a bad ride. What do you think would make this less common?

@DavidMartin-tk4fs

Ай бұрын

Lucky for you *and* the truck driver you're a skilled rider with your eyes peeled. 😅👍

@PixelVibe42

Ай бұрын

@@DavidMartin-tk4fs Not sure about skilled - just knew the road well and realised there wasn't enough room for me and a 40ft truck in the width restriction!

@PixelVibe42

Ай бұрын

@@gcn The road is badly laid out for cyclists. The Council recently painted extra wide single lines at the kerbs - not enough to cycle in, too far out for cars to safely pass each other with a cyclist in the same place. Basically whoever signed that off didn't consider cyclists.

@matthew7419

Ай бұрын

I once got narrowly passed by a large pickup towing a 30 foot power boat on a trailer, who immediately cut me off and turned. It's ok. When I realized he was going to try to pass me with the boat, I rode off the road into the grass.

tip from getting my motorcycle license a few decades ago. Assume they don't see you till you make eye contact then assume they are going to TRY to hit you.

If its purely a commute, and its not flat, particularly with an unavoidable uphill Junction Get a pedal assist, steering corrections get bigger as you slow down uphill and drivers dont get it!. If you need to change lanes a bit of speed feel much safer. Not easy uphill unless you are club riser fit or you can get some helpful Watts from a motor. Its also easier to do stop go, as stopping and waiting while drivers,"sort themselves out" through a restriction or negotiating some unexpected Bus stopping or Amazon driver parking is a good safety precaution. Often drivers take the opportunity in such circumstances to make some bad choices. about how wide things are. (or just get mad)

Good tips, but if I do some of this here in Brazil the car will run over me...😂😂😂😂. I challenge will to ride on traffic here in São Paulo!!