Golden Rules of the Road

Everyone involved in the British Heart Foundation Bike Rides want all riders to have a safe and enjoyable day out. So, for the sake of everyone taking part please follow these common sense rules:

Before the ride:

• Check your bike is in good order, especially the brakes
• Wear bright clothes at all times when riding your bike, and preferably something fluorescent
• If you will be riding in the dark, you must have working lights and reflectors on your bicycle. We recommend that you also wear something reflective
• Most serious injuriesfrom cycling accidents are caused by falling on your head. We strongly recommend that you wear a properly fitted cycle helmet

The Route

• Marshals will be placed along the route if you require any information or in case of emergency
• Please pass throuigh country villages and lanes quietly and leave them as you find them. Don't drop litter or damage grass verges or hedgerows by trampling all over them

During the Ride

• All the usual road traffic laws apply - so follow the Highway Code
• Obey all instructions from police and marshals on the route
• No roads are closed to traffic so keep to the left and, wherever possible, ride in single file, don't attempt to overtake in dangerous places and never overtake on the inside. STOP at red traffic lights and WAIT
• Give good clear signals before making any turn or overtaking, and try not to stop suddenly as there may be other cyclists behind you
• Be patient - with many riders on the road it can be very crowded. there may be some points where queuing is unavoidable
• Some riders could be inexperienced, so be alert at all times and be considered to other cyclists
• Keep your distance from the bike in front and don't speed down hills; many are steeper than you think, with hidden bends and potholes
• Avoid drinking alcohol on the ride. it will only make you feel even thirstier and may lead to an accident
• Remember, other traffic has to share the roads. Stick to the carriageway unless dismounting and DO NOT ride on pavements. We want to encourage people to cycle, not put them off

Stopping during the Ride:

• If you need a rest or your bike breaks down, please get off the road. Don't stop on the highway
• If you are an experienced mechanic please offer help to anyone who has broken down
• if you spot an accident, make sure that someone stays with the injured. Ensure that a marshal is informed immediately
• if you feel ill during the ride, do not continue. To do so could endanger your health or cause an accident

Endorsed by the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents