Cycle Safety

For many newcomers, the idea of riding in Oxford can be a little daunting at first, but if you can 

drive a car you are off to a great start -  the same road rules apply to cyclists as to drivers! Be mindful of what’s around you, but try not to be too intimidated by the cars. Motorists in Oxford are used to sharing the road with hundreds of cyclists each day and are generally very courteous.  

Here are some safety tips to get you off to a great start

·     Forget your hairdo, wear a helmet. (Note: it is not compulsory to wear a helmet in the UK).

·     Don’t wear clothes or carry bags that might get tangled in the chain or wheels of your bike.     

·     Give clear signals to show other road users your intention.

·     Leave plenty of room when passing parked cars and watch out for opening doors!

·     Always look well ahead for obstructions and avoid swerving suddenly to pass them.

·     Watch out for pedestrians! The footpaths in Oxford are very narrow and they often 

      step onto the road, oblivious to cyclists behind them.

For more cycle safety tips, check out The Oxford Fresher's guide to 'Buying a Bicycle.'