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Riding in traffic

Cycling / Popular

Road positioning, junctions and being seen in traffic.

What coaches agree on

  • Ride positioned out from the curb rather than hugging the gutter, and move further into the lane at junctions or narrow roads so vehicles have to wait for a safe gap instead of squeezing past.
  • Signal your turns clearly and check over your shoulder before changing position, the same way a car uses indicators and mirrors.
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  • Use front and rear lights and wear bright or reflective clothing so drivers can see you, even in daylight.

Common mistakes

  • Undertaking long vehicles like buses, lorries, and trucks on the inside, since their blind spots are huge, especially when turning, and the driver may not see you there.
  • Assuming a driver has seen you or will give way, such as following another rider through a junction because they went, or pulling out at a roundabout without checking for yourself.
  • Riding too close behind the vehicle in front, which hides hazards ahead from you and leaves no time to react if it brakes or turns suddenly.