If you are about to read this post, you are already hitting the pedals to move around the city or you plan to do it very soon! We’re so glad you’re using the energy in your legs to contribute to cleaner, healthier, and more efficient cities. Thank you!
If you are going to cycle around your city, either to go to work or sporadically on weekends, don’t miss the following tips for urban cyclists. Pay attention because they will not only be very useful to ensure your safety, but also that of others.
Index
11 essential tips for urban cyclists
Choose the right bike
There are hundreds of city bikes on the market, but we believe that the best way to get around cities are folding bikes. These compact bikes have become the new allies for the urban cyclist, as they can travel the distances of a city in a very practical way. In addition to being able to store them at home, take them on public transport or even at university, they provide greater versatility and are perfect for driving around the city. Do you already know them? If your answer is “no”, we leave you this post to catch you up:
Mejores bicicletas eléctricas urbanas plegables: Características y Comparativa
Read your city's local urban mobility regulations
It is very important that you follow the ordinances of the city council in which you travel, since the regulations can vary from one city to another. When driving in the city, please respect traffic rules and all signs. The fact of riding a bicycle does not exempt you from not braking at a red light or going on the sidewalk.
In the article entitled “Where should bicycles circulate in the city (in Spain)?“, you will find detailed information on this topic.
Signals all manoeuvres
Do not zigzag along the road, better in a straight line, and anticipate your changes or maneuvers, so you will avoid problems with other drivers. When changing direction or performing a maneuver, indicate your intentions through the armss, indicator lights or better: With a smart vest for cyclists!
We leave you with the following article “Cycling signs to go around the city”:
Señales ciclistas para ir por la ciudad: aprende a señalizar en bicicleta
Plan your route before you leave
It is one of the most important tips for urban cyclists (or other modalities). It is always advisable to plan ahead and make sure of the correct itinerary through the enabled bike lanes, cycle paths or quieter roads (for example, the old town of a city is a highly recommended option).
To cycle around the city, we recommend having the bike lanes under control and following traffic rules
Invest in Safety Equipment
Safety is paramount, essential, and vital. Invest in a high-quality helmet that complies with European regulations and is comfortable. Although a helmet is NOT mandatory for adults when riding on urban roads, we always advise wearing a helmet.
Also, don’t forget about front and rear lights, and reflective clothing to make sure you’re visible to drivers and pedestrians, especially at night.
Beware of the rains!
Atmospheric phenomena condition any bike journey, especially if we are talking about rain. If you are going to ride a bike on a stormy day, try to plan your ride a little earlier and take extreme precautions at all times. The rain can make the terrain slipperier and play tricks on you.
Please note that braking distance may vary. On a rain-wet road, the braking distance is significantly longer (up to 40%). This distance will also vary depending on the type of brakes your bike has. In the case of wet or damp surfaces, the best system is disc brakes, such as those on the Ossby GEO.
On the other hand, if you are lucky enough to ride a folding electric bike, it will allow you to go to the nearest metro or bus station to complete your journey. Blessed folding bikes and their versatility to combine it with public transport!
Bet on the maintenance of your bike
A bike in good condition is the basis for a safe experience through the city and this is another tip to keep in mind that every urban cyclist should check. To do this, check the brakes, steering, wheels and lights well. This way you can ride calmly without the fear of being stranded anywhere or, worse! suffering an altercation in the middle of the crossing.
In the instruction manual of your bike manufacturer you will surely find information on the correct maintenance of your bicycle.
Be careful when driving at night. Be Visible: Wear Lights and Reflective Clothing
If you have to move at night or you are already a night cyclist, it is essential to indicate your presence to other drivers through the appropriate lights and signals. The front and rear lights, the reflectors on the wheels and, if possible, on the helmet or on your clothes will be essential to make you look and ride more safely.
Attention: to ride at night or in situations of low visibility in Spain (and most countries) it is mandatory to carry a red rear light and red rear reflectors and white light and white reflectors on the front of the bike on the bike. For more information you can read the following article on our blog: “5 useful tips for cycling at night“
5 Consejos útiles para ir en bicicleta de noche
Drives at the appropriate constant speed
As we mentioned in a previous point, driving safety begins by following the established rules. And one of the most notable is to respect the recommended speed in all areas: for example, 30 km/h on bike lanes enabled on the road or 10 km/h for some sidewalks with bike lanes.
When pedaling around the city, maintaining a constant speed is key. Avoid sudden acceleration and sudden braking. Not only will this help you save energy, but it will also allow you to react better to unforeseen situations.
Always alert: it is forbidden to wear headphones or use your mobile phone
Urban streets are full of distractions. Keep your senses alert, see the road you are going on, the obstacles and listen attentive to all the stimuli.
Listening to your Spotify playlist or your favorite rock classics is a real pleasure, but NOT when you’re riding a bike, as you put your safety and the safety of others at risk. In fact, having headphones on or using your mobile phone while riding a bike is prohibited and your fine reaches up to 200 euros.
Don't let your bike be stolen!
We all know that bicycles are a very greedy lure for thieves, especially in the city. To avoid any scares, bet on two padlocks and try to park it in places that are not too crowded but not too lonely either. If you’d like to know How to prevent the theft of your bicycle, take a look at the following article.
Me robaron la bicicleta, ¿qué hago?
If you’ve already experienced several of these incidents, have you tried switching to a folding bike or folding ebike that you can take everywhere? The folding ones offer the freedom to enter stores and supermarkets with them, so you don’t lose sight of them. Oh, And they are very easy to store in the office or in a small apartment with space problems.
Bonus track: Stay hydrated: here yes h20!
Hydration is essential during your bike rides, especially in hot weather. Carry a reusable water bottle with you and make sure to take frequent sips to maintain your hydration levels. You can carry it in your backpack or install a bottle holder on your bike for easy access to your water while on the go. Remember that staying hydrated not only improves your performance, but also contributes to your overall well-being.
Urban cycling is a fantastic way to get around the city, combining exercise with efficiency and sustainability. By following these tips, you’ll be better prepared to face the challenges of driving in urban environments and enjoy your bike journeys to the fullest. We hope you find them useful and do not stop pedaling!
