Cycling safety tips: staying safe on the road

Before hitting the road, getting your gear right is essential for a safe, enjoyable ride. Investing in high-quality cycling safety equipment isn’t just about looking the part; it’s about being fully prepared for any situation that may arise. From head protection to visibility, each piece of gear plays a vital role in keeping you safe on Europe’s diverse roads. Let’s dive into the must-haves for any cyclist aiming to stay sharp, visible and protected during their rides.

• Helmets: First things first — helmets are non-negotiable. Sure, it might mess with your hair, but trust us, the best cyclists aren’t worried about their looks mid-ride, they’re focused on protection. Top brands like Oakley and POC offer helmets that don’t just protect but also provide ultimate comfort for those long rides. Besides, if a Tour de France rider like Tadej Pogačar isn’t worried about his hair under a helmet, neither should you be!
• Lights: Even if you’re riding during the day, lights are a must. European roads can be narrow and drivers might not always expect to see a cyclist zipping past. Equip your bike with premium lights like Lezyne or Exposure — these high-powered lights keep you visible whether it’s dawn, dusk or broad daylight. You might not be a stealth bomber, but you certainly don’t want to ride like one. Let them see you coming!
• High-visibility clothing: Fashionable? Maybe not. Lifesaving? Absolutely. The key to staying safe is being visible and that means donning reflective, high-visibility gear — especially when riding at sunset. The rule of thumb? If you’re riding near cars, be the human highlighter. It’s not glamorous, but it’s effective.
• Garmin Varia Radar: Cycling safety technology has come a long way and gadgets like the Garmin Varia radar make a world of difference. This radar detects vehicles approaching from behind, giving you the time to react and make safe decisions. It’s an invisible guardian, always watching your back.

Know the road rules: Europe edition

• Riding on the right: In Europe, cycling means riding on the right-hand side and depending on the country, there are some nuances to consider. France, Spain and Switzerland all enforce right-side riding, but don’t just assume drivers know the rules as well as you do. Roundabouts can be tricky — especially in France, where priority can differ depending on the roundabout. And here’s a tip: even if you technically have priority, don’t count on it! Make sure you’ve made eye contact with drivers before you proceed — visual confirmation can save you from unexpected mishaps.
• Roundabouts: Speaking of roundabouts, always yield to traffic from the left unless there’s signage that states otherwise. When in doubt, slow down and double-check. It’s better to be overly cautious than in a heap of trouble (literally).
• Cycling lanes and roads: While some countries in Europe are incredibly bike-friendly, others require a bit more caution. Take advantage of designated cycling lanes where possible but remember not every European road has them. In some areas, you’ll need to share the road with cars. Stay alert and avoid weaving in and out of traffic.

Additionally, avoid riding too close to parked cars — doors can swing open unexpectedly and that’s not a situation you want to be in. Stay predictable, use hand signals and make your movements clear to those around you.

Stay alert, stay alive

• Anticipating traffic behaviour: Drivers can be unpredictable and distracted driving is all too common. Keep your eyes peeled for erratic moves, especially at intersections or when overtaking parked vehicles.
• Blind corners: Europe’s beautiful countryside roads often come with blind corners, especially in mountainous regions. Take wide turns and slow down — better to be safe than surprised by an oncoming car.
• Communication with fellow riders: Group rides are a staple in Europe, especially on weekends. Clear communication is key — use hand signals and verbal cues to ensure everyone’s on the same page. And remember: you’re not in a telepathic group ride. If you’re making a turn or slowing down, make sure your riding mates know it!

Safety first, speed second

• Positioning on the road: Don’t ride too close to the curb — it might seem safer, but it actually reduces your visibility to drivers. Assert your space on the road, especially when you’re navigating narrow streets. You’re not a wallflower — claim your place!
• Avoiding dangerous zones: Stay clear of the “door zone” near parked cars and be extra cautious in busy intersections where cars might not spot you right away. Always position yourself in a way that ensures maximum visibility.
• Know when to slow down: The rush of speeding downhill is one of cycling’s great pleasures, but control is everything. Keep your speed in check — better to reach your destination safely than not at all.

Navigating weather challenges

• Rain and wet roads: Wet European roads can be treacherous, especially after the first rain in a while. Spanish roads, for example, become slick from oil and grime. Equip your bike with rain-ready tires like the Continental Gatorskin and take it easy when braking. In rainy conditions, gradual braking is key—no sudden movements!
• Windy conditions: Cycling through Provence or the Alps? You’ll likely face gusty winds, especially on descents. Get low on the bike to reduce drag and keep your bike steady. Lean into the wind, but not too much — find that sweet spot of balance. And when things get too intense, don’t be shy about asking the support car for a bit of extra protection.