Cycling
From ScoutHelp
Contents |
Where you can cycle in the countryside
- Public roads, including unclassified roads
- Bridleways
- Byways open to all traffic, these are usually unsurfaced tracks.
- Roads used as public paths
- Towpaths
- Designated cycle paths.
- The National Cycle Network.
- Cycle tracks designated under the Cycle Tracks Act 1984.
Where you cannot go
- On footpaths, unless a landowner has given permission.
- On pavements, unless it is a joint pedestrian/cyclist path; This will be well sign posted and may require the cyclist to give way to pedestrians or keep in a separate lane.
- On disused railway lines
- Across open land unless special permission has been granted.
Making sure you cycle responsibly
- Give way to pedestrians, wheelchair users and horse-riders, leaving them plenty of room.
- When passing horses take extra care, they are spooked easily so never pass without calling out a warning.
- Keep to your side of any dividing line and be prepared to slow down or stop if necessary.
- Don’t expect to cycle at high speeds. Reduce the speed when you don’t know what’s ahead.
- Match your speed to the surface and your skills.
- Remember how quiet bikes can be and how fast they spin along. Don’t surprise people – slow down and make they know you are coming.
- Fit and use lights in poor visibility.
- Avoid skidding on trails.
- Go through puddles, not around them.
- Stay off soft areas.
Special precautions when riding off-road
- Check local weather reports before heading for the hills
- Invest in a first aid kit and know how to use it.
- Carry emergency rations.
- Take a map and a compass and know how to use them.
- Carry essential tools such as a pump and a spare inner tube.
- Tell somebody where you are going and report any changes of plan by telephone.
- Plan the route.
- Avoid going solo if possible. Three is the minimum safe number. In an accident, one can go for help, the other stays with the injured.
- Wear the right clothes. Take spare clothing and don’t forget your helmet.
- If you are caught in low-visibility

