Profiles

Name: Stevie
Age: 15
SKILLZ:

Cool, calm and street safe, Stevie knows exactly how to look when riding about on a bike. But he knows it's not all about the look - it's about making sure you're safe, starting with your lid. A few of his friends think wearing a helmet makes you look stupid, but he knows there are so many excellent designs out there, he changes his lid regularly and looks even more streetwise!

Next, he makes sure everyone notices him when he's out – which isn't hard when you're Stevie, but he doesn't leave anything to chance and wears bright clothes and trainers that also have reflective strips. That way no one can miss him on the roads!

Name: Josh
Age: 14
SKILLZ:

When it comes to riding bikes, it's not his image that Josh spends his time on, it's making sure his set of wheels is in excellent condition! He absolutely loves riding about on bikes, and hates it when something goes wrong. So he makes sure nothing does, by regularly checking his tyres are pumped up, his gears and cranks are well oiled, and everything else is clean, shiny and in top condition. He also knows a gleaming set of wheels impresses the girls, especially Nikki!

Josh takes his bike to the local cycle shop on a regular basis to make sure nothing major is wrong with it, but he also follows a simple checklist before he sets off to ensures he's safe - brakes, tyres and gears are given a once over, lights and reflectors cleaned, then he's off!

Name: Niki
Age 14
SKILLZ:

Although Nikki always makes sure she looks good and checks that her bike is in excellent condition - she also reminds herself of the rules of the road! Avoiding accidents is all about being prepared, knowing the possible dangers on the road, and that means knowing the Highway Code. It not only protects you, but makes sure you don't hurt anyone else. She went and got trained up so she was safe when she started riding on the roads.

Now she knows you need to make clear signals at junctions, so everyone, particularly motorists, knows where you're heading. It's especially important you do this at roundabouts, 'cos these are dangerous places for cyclists. Ultimately, Nikki knows it's not worth taking silly risks, so if she's not sure a situation is safe, she gets off her bike and walks with it along the pavement. And that's the best advice. Be safe!