A safer ride starts before the wheels move. A short, repeatable check of the bicycle, conditions and essential equipment is more useful than trying to solve avoidable problems at the roadside.
Use one repeatable routineCheck tyres, brakes, steering, chain, lights, weather, clothing, battery level and emergency information before each ride.
Record rides responsibly
A journey record can help you understand distance, duration, speed, route patterns and maintenance needs. Set up the app before moving and do not interact with it while cycling. Treat location history as private information and share only what is necessary.
Document a cycling incident clearly
Start with safety and medical needs. When it is safe, record the date, time, location, direction of travel, road conditions and a factual sequence. Photograph the wider scene as well as damage, preserve original files, and keep witness contact details and official reference numbers with the same record.
Organise bicycle ownership details
Keep the make, model, colour, frame or serial number, purchase receipt, clear photographs and identifying marks together. Add component details for higher-value equipment and retain insurance or registration information where relevant.
Prepare before a bicycle is stolen
Good ownership evidence is hardest to recreate after a theft. Photograph the bicycle from several angles, record its identifiers, keep proof of purchase, use an appropriate lock and understand the reporting requirements of your insurer and local police force.
Keep emergency details ready
Prepare an emergency contact and any essential medical information that responders may need. Keep the information current, concise and available without exposing unrelated private records.
Protect private ride and health information
Routes can reveal home, work and regular travel patterns. Store ride and incident records securely, review what an exported report contains, and avoid publishing precise start and finish locations unless there is a clear reason.
Useful official resources