Cycle training

Whether you are new to cycling, or just want to brush up on your skills to feel more confident riding on the road, the council offers free cycling training to anyone who lives, works or studies in the borough.

You can receive one-to-one training from a qualified instructor in:

• basic cycle skills: Practice off-road and learn the basics. Improve your skills to cycle confidently through your local area
• urban cycle skills: Practice off-road and then move on to quiet roads to refresh your cycling technique
• advanced cycle skills: Learn how to improve your cycle skills at complex junctions, in heavy traffic or at night

Sessions are held from 4pm to 8pm on Wednesdays and 4:30pm to 6:30pm on Fridays at Jim Peters Stadium.

Contact

Contact Vandome Cycles by email info@vandomecycles.co.uk or call 020 8220 3075.

TfL online cycle training course

Try out TfL’s online cycle training course to improve your basic skills to feel more confident.

You’ll learn:

• tips to get you and your cycle prepared for the road
• how to start cycling on the road safely and responsibly
• tips to brush up on your cycling skills
• how to cycle in a group with children

Watch a teaser video of the course.

Road safety for cyclists

Cycling in heavy traffic is extremely dangerous. It is vital that all cyclists are aware of any dangers that may occur and are knowledgeable about maintaining their bike.

Read a summary of the rules for cyclists including advice on bike maintenance and safe behaviour on the road.

Cycle lighting

Cycle lighting is an important and legal requirement when it’s dark or when visibility is seriously reduced. To ride when it's dark your bike must have a working white front light, a red rear light and a red rear reflector.

By law, new bikes must be fitted with wheel and pedal reflectors and it is a good idea to upgrade older bikes too. All legal lights and reflectors will be marked with the latest safety standard. Pedal reflectors must be amber. Front reflectors are not essential, but if you have one, it must be white and facing forward.

Reflectors will not work when they are dirty, so keep them clean. Reflectors are not replacements for proper lights.

Cycle helmets

Cycling’s greatest danger is head injuries, and a helmet is your best defence. New helmets are far better than older models, with advances in materials making them light, comfortable, stylish and safe.

If you already own a helmet, check it fits correctly. Make sure that it feels snug and comfortable, allows clear all-round vision and hearing. It should not cover your eyes or ears, make sure it fits squarely on your head and it doesn't tilt forwards or backwards, and make sure it's well ventilated.

Most importantly, if it takes a hard knock, it is likely to be damaged. Don’t take a risk – buy a new helmet.