05 Nov Tips for riding in the cool – riding safe
Victoria BC, known for it’s mild climate, beautiful scenery and bike-able routes makes it a perfect place to call home for cycling enthusiast. Whether you’re commuting, exploring or hitting the trails, safety is key this fall and winter riding season.
From October to March, these chillier months bring cooler temperatures, rain, and shorter days. This means extra precautions are needed when riding in these conditions. We’ll be looking into a few safety protocols to keep you and other around you safe.
P.P.E
Personal Protective Equipment – for clothing & for equipment.
CLOTHING – Best to wear layers with your clothing, so you can easily adjust as the ride and weather changes. BE VISABLE – black is sleek but it also makes you blend in, especially at night. Remember to aim for function over fashion – it doesn’t matter how cool you look, just that the gear does the right job to keep you warm, dry and visible.
Base layer – mid layer – waterproof layer
EQUIPMENT
- Helmet is in date and fitted properly (within 5 years of purchase)
- A mirror is a great way to see what is coming up behind you!
- Turn your lights on in low visibility days
- Gloves can protect you from the cold and wet
Signals
The BC Cycling Coalition has put together an informative Cycling and Traffic Skills document outlining tips and skills to better your understanding and increase your safety and comfort when it comes to cycling in and around traffic. Generally, you use your left arm to signal which was you are turning. Ensure you are traveling at a safe speed before removing your left hand from your handle bars.
Signal early and signal often.
Let people know with your bell and your voice when you are passing them. A simple ‘On Your Left!’ can help people know you’re coming as well as give you more room to pass
Braking
Ensure to use both brakes at the same time and use the ‘feathering’ technique.
Feathering brakes – applying light, continuous pressure gradually in a controlled manor until stopped or steady speed without loosing control.
Maintain a safe braking distance for those in front of you – 2 to 3 bike lengths between. Slow down BEFORE turning corners, especially during the rain.
AVOID
- leaves
- puddles, they can be hidden pot holes or hold nasty surprises
- paint lines
- metal grates
Safe Riding
Inspect & clean your bike for longevity, performance and safety. Ensure at a minimum, a yearly service on your bike. Call Victoria Electric Bikes for servicing appointments (778) 432 0255
Take care of your body. Make sure you are keeping hydrated, even though it’s cold and wet. Fuel your body and look out for each other on the road.
Enjoy The Ride!
Remember to enjoy yourself & invite your friends out on a bike ride! Gear up so you can keep doing all of the things you love about cycling.
Note – it is against the law to cycle on the sidewalk and without a helmet. Know the rules, they are there to keep you and other around you safe.
Whether you’re commuting and enjoying the quieter trails, saving time and money, the physical fitness and mental wellbeing or simply enjoying the world around you.
Happy riding!
TB