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Good Cycling Code.


This is a quick guide to safe cycling.

Contact Sustrans for a full copy of the Good Cycling Code. Always be aware of and give way to walkers and horse riders and try to carry a bell on your bike.

 

      Obey the rules of the road:

 

      Care for the environment:

  • Can you reach the start of your journey by bike or public transport?

  • Follow the country code: in particular, respect crops, livestock and wildlife, and take litter home

  • Keep erosion to a minimum by keeping to paths and not cutting corners

  • Avoid fierce braking and skidding to minimise damage to path surfaces

  • Walk over very soft ground to avoid cutting it up

  • Take your litter home

  • Fasten all gates

 
Be courteous:

  • Always give way to walkers

  • Remember that some people are hard of hearing or visually impaired. Don't assume they can see or hear you

  • Where there are wheelchair users or horse riders please give way

  • Ring a bell or politely call out to warn of your approach; acknowledge people who give way to you

  • Respect countryside activities, such as farming and forestry

 

and:

  • Don't speed on narrow railway paths

  • Cycle at little more than walking pace on canal towpaths

       Look after yourself:

  • Take special care at junctions, when cycling downhill and on loose surfaces

  • Match your speed to the surface and your skills

  • In remote areas carry food, repair kit, map and waterproofs

  • Keep your bike roadworthy and use lights in poor visibility

  • Consider wearing a helmet and conspicuous clothing