FAQs


Children Comfort Getting Started Safety Security

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Children

At what age can I start using a child bike seat for my child?
Until a baby can hold their head up unsupported they should not be carried in a conventional child bike seat

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Is it feasible to take a young child on a long bike ride?
Yes, trailers are an excellent way to take very young children on longer bike rides. Slightly older children can go on a trailer bike or 'tag along' (effectively this is the back half of a child's bike)

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What is the best age to teach my child to cycle?
The age at which your child is ready to learn to cycle will vary. It is usually between 4 and 7 years old, so don't try and force the process.

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Comfort

What is the best sort of clothing to wear in wet conditions?
Light, well ventilated, waterproof jackets and trousers that can be slipped over your standard clothes are essential items. Breathable products are more expensive but will keep you cool and dry.

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Are there any tips I should follow for cycling on very hot days?
If you are planning a long cycle ride remember to use suntan lotion or to cover up your arms and back of neck. It is also advisable to drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration.

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Getting Started

How can I pick the correct bicycle size for my child?
Any good retailer will be able to help you with this. However it is important to buy a bike that properly fits! Buy the correct size, rather than one your child will 'grow in to'. An oversized bike

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What type of bike is most suitable for city/town cycling?
A 'utility' or 'hybrid' bike is usually the most suitable. They have a more upright riding position (than a mountain bike) specifically adapted for urban cycling and normally have mudguards to protect your clothes from the dirt/rain.

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Can a mountain bike be cycled on the road?
Yes, you can easily cycle a mountain bike on a road! The nobbly tyres make pedalling harder than on a road bike, but if you do not need to go at top speeds you won't have a problem. (You can always change the tyres to slicks to make it easier).

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Can I cycle on the pavement?
Do not cycle on the pavement unless it is specifically designated as a shared use path.

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Does a cyclist have right of way on a shared use path?
No. Give way to pedestrians and other path users when on a shared use path.

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Is there a route planner for travelling by bike in Northern Ireland?
No, not at the moment. Please email us if you would like to see a route planner made available.

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Is there somewhere where I can read about the rules of cycling on the roads?
Yes, read the Highway Code - visit www.highwaycode.gov.uk

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Is a folding bike as good as a regular bicycle?
Yes, a folding bike just as good! It is specifically designed for those who want to combine cycling with public transport as they are usually carried free of charge. The downside is the small wheels.

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Safety

How can I tell if my cycling helmet meets safety standards?
You should only buy a helmet if it carries a CE mark and one of the normal safety standards e.g. BS6883:1989, A.S.2063., ANSI., IZ.90.4SNELL, B90 or B95

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Should I replace my cycling helmet if it has been involved in a fall?
Yes, if it has been involved in a serious accident or fall.

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Is it a legal requirement to wear a cycling helmet whilst cycling?
No, but it is advisable to wear a cycling helmet for your own safety.

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Is it a legal requirement to have lights fitted to my bike?
Yes, the law states that you must have at least two lights attached to your bike. This includes a white light at the front and a red light at the rear. In addition you must have an efficient red reflector.

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Security

How can I make sure my bicycle is secure when unattended?
1) Always lock your bike, even if it is unattended for only a few minutes. 2) Lock it somewhere where there is a high level of public observation. 3) Lock it to a fixed piece of street furniture, i.e. a lamp post.

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What are the best types of bike lock?
Any good cycle retailer should be able to help you choose a sutable lock. There is a government backed system to test and grade cycle locks depending on the level of security offered with D-locks generation.

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Are there any precautions I can take in terms of identifying my bike?
It can be a good idea to get your bike postcoded by the police, keep photographs, and a record of the frame number. This will help your bike to be recovered in the event of theft.

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Can I insure my bike?
Yes, an easy way to do this is to extend your home and contents insurance to cover your bike but make sure it covers you for thefts outside the home too.

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