The government are investing £94million into improving the quality of Britain’s cycle routes and facilities. This investment comes as a result of the government’s 2025 goal of having 10% of all journeys being made by cycle. The £94million pounds will be used to enhance existing cycle routes while creating additional routes, the money will also go towards improving traffic facilities to ensure roads are friendly and safe to cyclists.
This investment is quite reassuring to cyclists who can occasionally be at risk to accidents on unsafe cycling routes. The measures will be particular useful during the winter months when there is the added risk of not being seen by oncoming vehicles.
To ensure that you remain as safe as possible when cycling this winter, make sure you follow our essential safety tips when cycling…
1) The darker evenings mean that it is time to adapt your cycling clothing. Layering a high visibility vest or sash over your current clothing can make all the difference between a car spotting you and a bad accident.
2) One of the most important changes that you should make to your bike when cycling in the winter is to install a bike light. Most bike lights can be powered by the cycling motion of your bike, and the flashing light on the front and back of the bike can quickly warn drivers of your presence.
3) If you cycle all year round, the start of autumn would be the best to invest in a good quality Moda bike. Road bikes can be subjected to plenty of wear and tear over a year of use and a service will check if the bike is working correctly as well as replacing tyres with some strong grip tyres to add extra stability when riding during slippery or wet weather conditions.
4) As well as making sure you are wearing a protective helmet, one of the greatest ways that you can safeguard yourself from an accident on the road is to stay aware of your surroundings. Don’t distract yourself by listening to music while you cycle, stay focused and maintain a wide distance from any vehicles that may not have seen you.
5) Wet weather or slippery road conditions can affect your stopping distance so remember to take this into account when travelling on busy routes.