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Staying Safe As You Cycle

At LUCA, it is so important to us that all women feel confident and safe on every ride. This is a topic close to our heart, and one we will continue to explore. If you haven't already, do read our blog 'Brighten Up Your Ride For Safety', featured in January's LUCA Insider newsletter (sign up here!). Luca has also spoken about safety in cycling (see her 'Cycling Safety' story highlight) on her Instagram @lucakuhn

In this blog, we are sharing a checklist of our safe cycling tips. We do hope that you can - and will - refer to these as you plan your upcoming rides. What would you add to this list? Do let us know: hello@rideluca.com

Pictured: Hille @hillesteenhuis

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1. Plan Your Route. Use apps to plan well-lit and populated routes. Stick to areas with regular traffic, avoiding isolated paths or alleyways.

2. Avoid Night Rides Alone. If possible, avoid cycling alone at night. If you must, choose well-lit, busy roads and cycle with a friend or group.

3. Stay Alert and Aware. Be aware of your surroundings at all times. Avoid distractions such as using your phone or wearing headphones while riding.

4. Use Well-Fitting, Bright Clothing. Wear reflective or bright clothing to increase visibility, especially in low-light conditions. A high-visibility vest or bright jacket can help drivers spot you (we have added reflective elements to our AW collection for safety).

5. Equip Your Bike with Lights. Always use front and rear lights, even during the day. Make sure your lights are bright enough to be seen, and consider flashing lights for added visibility. Read our blog on bike lights.

6. Cycle in a Group When Possible. Riding in groups, especially in unfamiliar or less populated areas, provides safety in numbers and can deter harassment or unwanted attention.

7. Use Bike-Friendly Roads. Opt for roads with dedicated cycling lanes. Avoid high-traffic areas where cars dominate, as well as isolated back roads.

8. Carry Personal Safety Devices. Carry a small personal alarm, pepper spray, or whistle in an easy-to-reach location. These can be useful in emergencies.

9. Inform Someone of Your Route. Let someone know where you’re going and your expected return time, especially if you’re cycling alone in a new area.

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10. Stay on Public, Well-Populated Roads. Stick to routes with regular foot or vehicle traffic to minimize the risk of isolated situations. Avoid shortcuts through secluded areas like parks or back streets, particularly at night.

11. Trust Your Instincts. If you feel uncomfortable or notice suspicious behaviour, change your route or seek help in a public place. Trust your instincts and don't hesitate to act on them.

12. Be Cautious at Stops. Be mindful at traffic lights or stop signs. If you feel uneasy, keep some distance from strangers or other cyclists who may approach you.

13. Invest in a GPS Tracker. Some bike GPS trackers allow your location to be shared with trusted contacts, providing extra peace of mind, particularly when riding alone.

14. Avoid Unwanted Attention. If approached by someone making you uncomfortable, avoid engaging and ride away towards a populated or safe area. Do not stop if it doesn’t feel safe.

15. Use Social Cycling Networks. Join women-only cycling groups or social networks for women cyclists to organize group rides. These groups can help with safety, route recommendations, and building confidence on the road (our Cliq Cycling Community is a great place to start! :))

16. Use Headphones with Care. If you need to listen to something, only use one earbud. This way, you can stay alert to your surroundings while still enjoying music or navigation instructions.

17. Secure Your Bike in Public. When locking your bike, choose a well-lit, busy area. Avoid leaving your bike in secluded spots for long periods.

18. Carry Identification and Emergency Contacts. Always carry your ID and a card with emergency contact details in case of an accident. Medical ID bracelets or apps can also provide vital information in emergencies.

Please do share your tips for safe cycling - we want you all to feel safe every time you head out on your bike, and we are all in this together!

Our lovely LUCA community is such a special way to connect, share and support each other! If you haven't already, do sign up to our LUCA newsletter  along with our Cliq Cycling Community and WhatsApp group for community updates, events and Ride Outs. Plus lots of support from like-minded, wonderful women.

Luca X

LUCA Blog