Gaining confidence on the road

[Red Light]

The most important part for me is not the looking behind but the manoeuvre. Rather than signalling and pulling over start to drift slowly right a little way before the junction. When you get close to the centre of the lane, signal for five seconds and then complete the move. The gradual drift allows you to break naturally into a line of traffic in a way a signal and pull over won't.

Two other tips, if turning to look behind is difficult try looking down and under your arm. Second get a copy of Cyclecraft by John Franklin which gives invaluable advice about riding in traffic.

 

[BentMikey]

What about getting some cycle training? I think all of us can improve, myself included, and cycle training can be aimed at almost any level. It's a great way to spend some focused time on correct road positioning and craft with an experienced instructor.

 

[on the road]

I've often seen some cyclists stick their hand out without looking behind and just hoping that the cars behind are going to slow down, that's not a good idea because they are then relying on the judgement of the motorist, not all motorists are considerate. It's better to be in control of your own destiny by looking behind and using your own judgement.