Bike well – Bike health

How to ‘stay chilled’ when we are riding

We only have control of two things when out riding our bicycles, first is we can control our bicycle, and the second is we can control the way we respond to the behaviour of other road users. We do not have control over the design of the infrastructure we ride on, the road rules and most importantly the behaviour of other road users.

If we are curious rather than furious about the poor behaviour of other road users, we are more likely to ask “why” they did what they did putting us on a path that will help us to understand their world. If we get furious, then our ability to make good judgements decreases, and our wellbeing decreases.

Key Share the Road Campaign messages for people who ride bicycles.

1. Keep control of your bike and the situation
   •    Ride at the right speed for the conditions
   •    Scan the road in front and behind regularly, so you can react early to danger

2. Ride to be seen and to be predictable
   •    Ride out from roadside obstructions such as drain covers, broken glass, and parked cars
   •    Ride in smooth lines and avoid swerving suddenly
   •    Position yourself to be seen at intersections
   •    If you want to get to the front of a stationary queue, pass on the right not the left
   •    Wear light or bright clothing
   •    Use lights and reflectors during periods of low light

3. Choose safe routes — pick roads with low vehicle speeds and volumes if you can