The Right Gear

Rule No. 1: You can never be too brightly dressed. In summer, brightly patterned tops help you stand out. In winter, fluorescent jackets with reflective strips help you to be seen. Too many bike crashes are followed by the immortal words "Sorry, mate, I didn't see you." Don't get hit by a SMIDSY - be bright! Reflective armbands are good in winter, they hepl drivers see yor signals.

Trousers can get caught in chains. If you've got loose cuffs on your strides, tuck them in your socks or wear trouser clips. It may look nerdy, but it's a lot less nerdy that chainring marks! Shoelaces can also get caught in chains, and that can be a real problem.

Shoes need to have proper soles with some crip, or they might slip off the pedals. Never ride in bare feet. Make sure laces are properly tied and if they are long, tie a double bow or tuck them in to get them out of the way.

If you come off, you will put your hands out to break your fall. Gloves can stop you getting cuts. In summer many cyclists wear fingerless gloves with padded palms. In winter you need to make sure your gloves don't stop you using the brakes! A helmet could also save you some cuts or a nasty headache. Helmets can't protect you from cars: wearing a helmet absolutely does not mean you can forget about riding safely! If you ride like a maniac and expect your helmet to save you from the consequences, think again. The best way to be safe is to prevent crashes by riding well.

If you do wear a helmet, make sure it fits properly: it should not slide around on your head. It should come down close to your ears, cover your forehead, and the straps should be tight and close to your neck, so you can open your mouth. Always take your helmet off when you are not riding, the straps can strangle you if the helmet gets caught.

Helmets and gloves are particularly recommended for off-road riding.