8 Top Tips For Cycling At Night

Now that autumn is here and winter is well and truly on the way, you need to prioritise safety when out and about on your UK hybrid bikes. The mornings and evenings are growing darker by the day so you have to make sure you’ve taken all necessary precautions if you’re going to be on the roads, cycling to work and back each day. Here are some top tips to help you get from A to B in one piece.

Don’t rely on streetlights

You might be able to see where you’re going just by using streetlights but that doesn’t mean that drivers and pedestrians are able to see you. You legally have to have red rear lights and white front ones on your bike as soon as night falls.

Wear reflective clothing

These days you can buy all sorts of trendy reflective clothes to keep you safe on your bike and looking good at the same time, so there are no excuses whatsoever. You should be doing all you can to increase your visibility at this time of year.

Invest in a good puncture repair kit

Can you imagine anything worse than being miles from home in the dark and pouring rain with a puncture on your bike and no kit to repair it with? Do yourself a favour and always carry a good repair kit with you just in case.

Buddy up

If you’re going out on your bike for recreation rather than just travelling somewhere, why don’t you take a friend with you? There’s safety in numbers and if you’re new to biking in the dark this is a great way to build your confidence up.

Fit winter tyres

To prevent the chances of a puncture, consider fitting winter tyres to your bike. You should also check them regularly for any cuts and road debris that could be stuck in the rubber and which might make its way into the inner tube.

Wrap up warm!

You might get warm when on your bike but if you head out of the city and into the countryside, be prepared for the temperature to drop – perhaps even dramatically! Always check the weather report as well so you know you’re wearing the appropriate clothing.

Plan your route

It’s best not to try out new routes when biking at night as chances are you’ll get lost quite quickly. Stick to routes you know well so you can get back home at a reasonable time. Also tell someone where you’re going and what time you expect to be back so the alarm can be raised if necessary.

Don’t ride in the gutter

Ride at least one metre away from the edge of the ride as you’re more visible and you’re better able to move to the left to avoid potholes or rubbish in the road. If you’re riding next to the pavement, you could find yourself falling off your bike and into a big puddle!