Road Safety Tips & Tools > Cyclists

Road Safety Advice to Cyclists

 

Cycling is a form of good exercise. However, one has to be careful about their own safety and other road users when cycling. Otherwise, you may spoil your fun.

The roads in Hong Kong are very busy. All road users have a right of way. In order to have an enjoyable and safe journey when travelling on the roads, both motorists and cyclists have to share a responsibility to understand each other's needs and to respond positively.
In Hong Kong, rules which apply to vehicles are also applicable to cyclists. All cyclists must obey traffic signs, road markings and traffic regulations.
General Advice to Cyclists
Learn and practice basic skills at a suitable place away from traffic.
Cyclists are highly recommended to ride on cycle paths.

Do not ride on roads until you can confidently and skillfully maneuver the bike - riding on the roads requires extreme caution.
Children under the age of 11 years cannot ride a bicycle without being accompanied by an adult.
Before Cycling
Ensure that you are physically fit to ride. Do not ride if you're under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Ensure that you can maneuver the bicycle skillfully.

Make sure you wear protective gear, like a helmet and protective pads.
Suitable attire is to be worn. The legs of baggy trousers or shoelaces can catch easily in the chain and cause you to fail off a bike.
You have to check your bicycle that it is functioning properly in particular the brakes, lights, the bell and tyres.
A bicycle should only be used for its intended purpose. Do not carry loads on a bike. Do not carry anything which might affect your balance or control of the cycle.
Before Moving Off
  Think - Think carefully what you want to do and allow sufficient time to do it.
  Look - Check if it is safe to maneuver; look ahead and look behind.
(If there is traffic approaching, wait until it has passed.)
  Signal - Signal what you intend to do, provided it is safe. Arms signal must be correct, clear and given in plenty of time.
Do not wear earphones or any other audio devices, or use your handheld mobile phone. Remember concentration is very important whilst cycling.
You must not carry any passengers.
Be visible. Wear bright clothing and always use lights after dark or in poor visibility conditions.