Cycling can be a great way to travel to UC. However, with reduced daylight hours and wet weather, there are a few things you can do to ensure that you and your bike are prepared for riding this winter season.
Check out our safety tips and stay light, bright and on your bike this winter!
Ride to the conditions
- Wet weather makes surfaces slippery.
- Beware of road markings, manhole covers and leaves – try to avoid braking or turning sharply as you cross them.
- Ride slower in wet conditions to keep control.
- Watch your following distances.
- Maintain a good road position and don’t ride in the gutter.
- Always watch for cars, other cyclists and pedestrians.
Use the right gear and equipment
- Gloves help you maintain a good grip in cold and wet conditions.
- Rain jackets – make sure your jacket won’t get caught in the chain or other moving parts.
- Mudguards can help keep you clean (and a little drier) on wet roads.
- Lights…and a reflective vest
Look after your bike
- Check your tyres. Make sure there is good rubber for traction in the wet and there are no cuts or glass in them. Got a flat tyre? Check out where the air pumps are on campus.
- Check your brakes work well, as they can wear down quicker in wet and dirty conditions.
- Store your bike securely and under cover. Use one of the three electronically accessed, video-surveillance monitored bike parks around UC.
- No matter where you leave it, always lock it. We recommend using a good quality D-Lock to deter potential thieves.
- Does your bike need some winter TLC to get it road ready? Bring it along to Dr Bike, our free weekly bike service, outside C Block lawn on Thursday afternoons from 1pm – 2.30pm.
