How to confidently ride in traffic

As the roads get busier again, Cyclists’ charity Cycling UK has plenty of good advice on tackling our busy streets

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Published: June 11, 2020 at 10:06 am

YOU ARE THE TRAFFIC

Remember that you are part of the traffic, whatever other road users might tell you. Think about acting like a car, although you have much more visibility being higher up. Move with the traffic and take up the place of

a car at key features like traffic lights and roundabouts.

OUT FROM THE EDGE

Stay clear of the gutter for a couple of reasons: firstly to position yourself in the road, particularly where the lane might be narrow, to help drivers appreciate that you are traffic too and they should think about passing you as such. Secondly this also helps keep you clear of the drains, potholes and debris that litter the road edges.

THINK AHEAD

Anticipate what is coming up, and what others are doing. Keep your head up and look around as well as using your ears. This means you will have a smooth and calm ride.

Make eye contact with drivers as well, as this breaks down barriers very effectively, helps drivers see you as a ‘real person’ and ensures that you can ride on knowing that they know you are there.

RIDE WITH CONFIDENCE

Be confident on your bike and you will feel confident, and what’s more others around you will see that confidence. Despite what you might hear on talk radio, there isn’t a war going on out there and no one is trying kill you!

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