These bike safety tips for new cyclists aren’t here to make cycling lame; they’re here to potentially save lives.

It’s more important than ever that cyclists can remain safe while enjoying their bikes. Whether you’re riding on the road, a bike trail, or even the mountains, there will always be safety hazards present.

These bike safety tips for new cyclists are designed to prevent accidents and help build confidence, allowing you to focus more on becoming a better cyclist.

1. Always Wear a Properly Fitted Helmet

Helmets are non-negotiable for the safety of a cyclist.

Sure, there are riders who refuse to wear them and will argue their reasons, but there is more physical evidence to counter that argument and show that not wearing them often results in serious injuries and death.

Your helmet should fit you properly and not wobble from side to side. It features a V-shaped strap that spans over your chin and under your ears. It’s a good idea to buy one with MIPS technology for extra safety.

Always replace your helmet if it is damaged, whether by wrecking or dropping it on the ground.

2. Be Visible with Lights and Reflective Gear

This is especially important for road cyclists, as they frequently face numerous hazards from motor vehicle drivers.

It’s important to be seen by others. You should wear reflective gear and use lights, regardless of whether it’s morning, afternoon, evening, or night. Yes, I just told you to use lights during the day because it’s one more reason a driver is going to notice you and not run you over,

You should have a front light, a rear light, and reflective gear or clothing. Many cycling kits now come with reflective features on their jerseys and bibs.

You might also choose kits that are not pure black because black is a color that is so common that it’s often not seen as quickly as a brighter color can be detected.

3. Learn to Follow All Traffic Rules

There are many cyclists who disobey traffic laws, and that needs to stop immediately.

For drivers to start accepting cyclists more, cyclists need to start accepting the same rules that drivers are subject to, such as stopping at stop signs and red lights. The biggest reason to do this, though, is that it prevents the cyclist from being struck and killed.

If a cyclist is killed for not obeying traffic rules, it’s most often the cyclist’s fault because simple abiding by the rules would have prevented their fate.

Follow the rules of the road at least to prevent yourself from getting killed on your bike. Ride with the flow of traffic, not against traffic. Use hand signals when you’re turning and to communicate with drivers.

4. Master Basic Bike Handling Skills

Practice makes perfect when it comes to bike handling skills that every cyclist should learn.

Try to practice braking smoothly. Practice looking behind you while riding straight and not getting unbalanced. Practice riding one-handed and even no handed. Do this in an area where there aren’t any other hazards present, such as motor vehicles.

Better bike handling skills will often give you better control in emergency situations that you could be faced with at some point.

Practice these skills often. Practice them in dry and wet conditions. The better you are at riding your bike, the safer you will be.

5. Perform a Pre-Ride Safety Check Before Each Ride

Perform the ABC pre-ride safety check before every ride.

Make sure you AIR up your tires to the recommended pressure level. Your BRAKES should be inspected to ensure they’re in working condition. Your CHAIN should be functioning smoothly and lubricated.

The ABC checklist will help you stay safe while also prolonging the life of your bike and its components.

It’s also a good idea to visit your local bike shop a few times a year. Ask them to perform a tune-up and inspection of your bike. They’re likely to clean some components, replace your chain and brakes if necessary, and inform you of any issues they find.

Final Thoughts

It’s important to follow bike safety tips for new cyclists. These tips prevent you from becoming injured or worse. When you’re new, take the opportunity to learn anything you can to make you a better cyclist.

Make cycling safety a habit from day one and teach others to do the same.

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