ABU DHABI // Cyclists have been urged to wear helmets, reflective clothing, and to ensure that their bicycles are working properly and are fitted with front and rear lights before they begin their ride.
Alex Silva, 37, a keen cyclist who lives in Dubai, said a helmet for protection against falls and lights to make riders visible to motorists were all essential to safe cycling.
Gloves, proper clothing and some spare parts in case of a problem with the chain, gears or a puncture can also make bike riding a better experience, he said.
“These days any bike from a reputable brand is safe and durable,” said Mr Silva, a marketing co-ordinator at Adventure HQ. “But there will always be bikes from unknown brands which are not safe to ride and will not last long.
“They are cheaper but the price difference doesn’t justify all the risks of riding bikes that haven’t been properly built or assembled. Go to a bike shop and ask for advice on which is the best type of bike that suits your needs and style of riding,” Mr Silva said.
Mohammed Al Amiri, 35, owner and manager of Tamreen Sports bike shop in Abu Dhabi, said the key to safe cycling was simple: “Be visible and save your head.”
“A helmet is definitely a must, as with front and rear lights, so the cyclist is visible to both motorists and pedestrians,” he said. “In recent years we’ve seen more cycling routes on the Corniche as well as a cycle track in Al Wathba.”
The Government is working on making the country more bike friendly, and introducing more sustainable modes of transport, Mr Al Amiri said.
Cyclists need to prepare themselves for the type of riding they will do. They need to know the route and its dangers, the safest alternatives and the best time of the day to go.
“One must understand that most drivers are not expecting to encounter bikes on the roads so be very cautious,” Mr Silva said. “Prepare yourself physically for the ride. According to the distance and route, you should prepare yourself in safe places such as cycle tracks and corniches in the UAE where cars are not allowed, or for instance, at the Yas Marina Circuit and Dubai Autodrome, which are open once a week.
“You should also prepare your bike with the right accessories, and have it inspected regularly to ensure it’s working properly and is safe to ride,” Mr Silva said.
Riding a bicycle need not be very difficult or physically demanding if the rider is not aiming to go very fast or very far, but a little preparation can go a long way, said Mr Al Amiri.
“A bike should be properly calibrated and have well-adjusted brakes and properly inflated tyres. If you take good care of your bike, it will be with you for a long time.”
The National's #CycleToWorkUAE initiative hopes to inspire everyone who is able to cycle to leave the car at home and instead ride a bike to work on January 13.
“This is a very good gesture,” said Mr Al Amiri. “There will come a time when more people will be aware of it, and encourage others to take an interest in cycling.”
rruiz@thenational.ae
