So you’re safe on the road with a bike

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A roadworthy bike requires two working brakes, inflated tires, a bell, a white light at the front and a red light at the rear, and reflectors on the pedals, front and rear. Additional lights and reflectors, for example on helmets, are allowed but not required for safe cycling. In addition, for comfortable and effective driving, it is necessary to adjust the steering wheel and seat height according to your own height.

Here are a few facts and figures about cycling in Switzerland:

• According to the Swiss Federal Statistical Office, about 65 percent of households own at least one bicycle.
• According to the Velosuisse industry association, significantly more bikes were purchased during the Corona era.
• About 18,000 traffic accidents involving bicycles occur each year in Switzerland.
• 80 percent of accidents are self-accidents, 20 percent are collisions.
• The helmet protects and significantly reduces the risk of head injury.
• Helmets are mandatory for e-bikes only, but wearing a helmet is recommended.

regular checkup

To be on the safe side, the bike should be checked by a specialist at a bike shop once a year. Fixed parts, shift levers, chain, steering and brakes should be checked. If you are not an expert, you can easily overlook flaws and unknowingly endanger yourself and others on your journey.

In general, tires, brakes and lights should be checked before every bike tour. This will only take a minute, but it’s important.

Cleaning and maintenance of the bike

Bicycles should not be left outside, especially in autumn and winter. In the spring or summer, you should only do this if you use it frequently. Temperature changes, dirt, moisture and strong sunlight can damage the material. Regular cleaning and maintenance of the bike is a must in places in the fresh air. In this way, you can quickly understand whether something is faulty and prevent rusting, which can be dangerous, especially in mechanics.

You can use a bucket with warm water and biodegradable dish soap to clean the bike. You also need a sponge, a toothbrush for hard-to-reach places and a dry cloth to dry after cleaning. If the bike is clean and dry, the mechanics like the chain and rear derailleur can be treated with some bike oil so everything runs smoothly on the next trip. A special polish takes care of the bike’s frame and can keep it cleaner for longer.

Know and refresh your knowledge of traffic regulations

Many took the bike test as children. Such cycling courses are offered, for example, by Pro Velo Switzerland for families and adults in several cities.

Many people do not want to admit how important it is to continue their education in road traffic. Streets and traffic are changing: in the past, for example, the roundabouts common today were almost non-existent. According to the Swiss Accident Insurance Fund (Suva), many cyclists continue to ride on the side of the road rather than in the middle of the road as prescribed and recommended. This puts them at risk of being dragged over or pushed aside by other road users, such as drivers. In the middle of the road, at the roundabout, it is safer for cyclists. Unfortunately, many drivers are not aware of this rule.

protective clothing

Helmets must be worn on every bike ride, no matter how short. It can save lives in an emergency. In the evening or in the dark, light-colored clothing is also recommended, such as a yellow safety vest with reflectors, so that others can see you better.

If you wear wider trousers, they can easily get caught in the chain and cause accidents. To prevent this, there are special trouser hangers, also called wrist hangers. These are often also equipped with reflectors and ensure that the trousers fit well at the ankle.

predictive driving

In general, predictive driving on the road is important. For your health as a cyclist, you should always ride with full concentration and give clear hand signals. A parked car can suddenly open the door, large vehicles may have a blind spot that you cannot see, roadside children can jump onto the road and there should always be sufficient distance from other vehicles and people for emergency braking. Driving too fast is also risky. Those who are thoughtful and considerate for themselves can better protect themselves and others and are safer on the road, whether by bike or not.

Source : Blick