Just to add my tuppen'orth, I just want to thank everyone for all their helpful hints - this website is a real find!



As for my tips... well, most people have said the important stuff already, and as someone who is generally happy using most machinery - but utterly inept when it breaks down - I'm hardly in a position to add much of any interest here.

The only comments I'll make are:

1. I am amazed every day by the number of people who don't wear a helmet. What possible reason can there be not to wear one? Wear a helmet, folks - it might save your life.

2. If, like me, you're a backpack wearer (and I hear the pannier arguments... but then if, like me, getting sweaty is one of your cycling aims... LOL) then I'd recommend one of the hi-vis & luminous reflective covers that goes over your back-pack. It makes a big difference on the visibility stakes.

3. Make sure you're visible - that means lots of lights and lots of luminous if possible. And, since the human eye detects movement better than anything else, go with the flashing LED style lights for your rear lights, at the very least.

4. Finally, if any of you are (like me) mad enough to cycle in London... just remember, much as I hate to tar a whole group with the same brush, London bus drivers are invariably selfish, blind and brain-dead. One knocked a friend of mine off his moped the other week... so if you think he's going to be more careful because you're on a push-bike, think again. Cycle very carefully around them - because chances are, they won't be too bothered about looking out for you.

That's all folks - cycle safely!



Matt