Cycle safe training for adults coming to Oxford
Cyclists are being encouraged to sign up for a free training session in Oxford at 10am on Tuesday 4 March 2025, designed to build confidence and improve safety awareness, particularly on the approach to roundabouts and at busy junctions.
The two hour ‘adults cycling with confidence’ training can be booked by emailing:
roadsafety.education@Oxfordshire.gov.uk
It will be a practical session with participants needing to bring their own bike, safety helmet and wear appropriate clothing.
Andy Ford, from Oxfordshire County Council’s Fire and Rescue Service’ community safety team, said: “Cycling is a great way to exercise and an environmentally friendly form of transport, and the dangers are often perceived to be much greater than reality. However, it’s important that anyone using their bike is familiar with the Highway Code and the safety critical do’s and don’ts, particularly on busy main roads and at junctions.
“The type of thing you’ll learn more about on the day includes things like cycling at least half a metre from the kerb to avoid drains and gutters and maintaining a dominant road position. We’ll be explaining the dangers of passing on the nearside between traffic and the pavement especially close to junctions, particularly when there are large vehicles where the driver might not be able to see you in their wing mirrors.
“Please don’t ride on the pavement, except where it is designated as a cycle path, and where this is provided, moderate your speed and take care when passing pedestrians and give way at junctions. It is illegal to cycle on the pavement too and you might encounter young children and elderly people who won’t be able to get out of the way.
“There’ll be lots of emphasis on remembering that if a road junction is busy, do not feel you have to continue cycling. You can always get off, push your bike, or walk on the pavement.
“We’ll also discuss not weaving in and out of traffic or changing direction suddenly without signalling, and giving pedestrians priority when necessary. Use your bell to inform other road users of your presence, and fit a bell if your bicycle doesn’t have one. And always wear a cycle helmet, bright contrasting clothing and accessories so drivers can see you more easily.”
The meeting location for the training will be:
Bardwell Road, near the entrance to Cherwell Boathouse in Oxford.
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