You can download and print the information below in the form as a beautiful illustrated A5 Flyer: Guide pages

1.Have top control skills...become expert at riding one-handed (practice a fig of 8, use your gears efficiently to prolong their life, that of your knees, and allow you to zip away from stationary positions.

2.Ensure the bike fits you well;slight bend in leg when pedal at longest extension, brake levers in a position so your hands rest comfortably on them (be kind to your wrists!) and if you choose to wear a helmet make sure it is fitted correctly.

3.Plan for any manoeuvres well in advance to allow plenty of time to get in the right position and scan the road for potholes etc. to avoid sudden swerves.

4.See,be seen ,communicate! Ride in a good visible position (at least a car door distance from parked cars), don't weave into gaps (you disappear), and get good eye contact with other road users (it humanises them and you know if they have seen you).

5.Before turning, look, signal (if there is someone to signal to), look again in the direction that you are turning to see that your signal has been accepted.

6.Get into the habit of overtaking traffic on the r.h.s. It is just as fast and avoids being cut up by a left turning vehicle who often are not in the habit of using the left mirror, or, particularly with lorries have a substantial blind spot (this is one of the most common causes of serious accidents).

7.In wet weather personhole covers (a.k.a. manhole covers pre p.c) and drains become very slippery. Avoid turning on them and if you do ride over them do so confidently and straight.

8.If you are involved in an accident, the adrenilin often prevents rational thinking. Remember to;
-Take witnesses details
-Take details of driver and vehicle
-Report any accident resulting in injury to the police (it is illegal not to)
-Take time to check you and your bike for damage (it may not be immediately apparent)
-Membership of organisations such as the C.T.C provides free access to legal advice and may include 3rd party insurance.

9.Keep tyres pumped nice and hard (less punctures, more energy efficient, faster, steering more responsive, tyres last longer), check your brakes, use a bell, and listen to your bike; strange noises usually indicate a problem.

10.Motorists' most common response after an accident is 'I didn't see you'.To combat this think of wearing a high vis waistcoat or suchlike, have working lights at night-flashing mode doubles battery (rechargeable of course) life. But remember it is the position that you ride in the road which is the main element of being seen (see point 4).

Consider complementing these tips through some on road training- see CTC for national standards accredited instrutors in your area.