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Learn the Skillz

It's great getting out on your bike and riding around with your mates, but having an accident is not cool. The way to stay safe and avoid hurting others is to know the rules of the road. So, like Nikki, why not sign up for a cycle training course? Not only will you be keeping yourself safe, you'll meet excellent new bike-mad friends. To find out how to sign up, get in touch with National Cycle Training (0870 607 0414, cycletraining@ctc.org.uk, www.ctc.org.uk) or see your Road Safety officer at your local council.

Geared Up

First up, you need to follow Stevie's advice: be cool and wear the right stuff. And also listen to Josh and make sure your bike is set up right. Follow these checks before you hit the road to keep yourself safe:

COOL CLOBBER

Stick a top-quality lid on your head and make sure it fits properly
Always wear brightly coloured clothes, so no one can miss you on the road. Pull on a fluorescent top during the day and wear reflective strips at night

BRILLIANT BIKE

Check your lights are working – you need a white one at the front and a red one at the back
Clean your red rear reflectors and amber pedal strips
A white front reflector and wheel reflectors will highlight your visibility
Add a bell to your set-up, so you can announce your arrival in to busy areas (all bikes are sold with bells)
Make sure your bike is up to speed – check your cranks are well oiled, the brakes are working well, and your wheels spin properly. Every month, get your local bike shop to give it a once over for you

For more information on bikes, visit the one-stop cycling site, www.bikeforall.net

Be Aware

When you're riding about on the road, remember these six golden rules to keep yourself out of trouble.

Know what's going on ALL around you before you kick off, and when you're turning, overtaking and stopping
Indicate to people what you're about to do by giving clear hand signals
Be one step ahead of the game and look out for obstacles, such as pot holes, drains, junctions and pedestrian crossings
Never listen to your ipod, radio or use your mobile phone while riding
Always concentrate on the road, especially when you're with friends
Don't cycle more than two bikers abreast, and always ride in single file on busy roads

For more handy hints, check out www.cyclesense.net and www.thinkroadsafety.gov.uk

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