How To Cycle In A City - 9 Top Tips For Riding On Busy Roads

[@StewartMidwinter]

Great to see gcn putting out more urban biking videos. The vast majority of people riding bicycles are not racing.

[@oliverc1293]

I think this video is really good, especially the sections on signalling, positioning and anticipation. I learnt to ride in Central London, which is a pretty challenging environment. Cars, buses, lorries, motorbikes, scooters, and loads of other cyclists. The point about claiming your position on the road is an important one. If you're constantly tucked over against the kerb and constantly trying to get out of the way of cars then you're bound to find yourself in more awkward positions. Be clear in what you're doing but remember you have every right to be on the road.

[@gcn]

Thanks Oliver, great to hear that you found our video useful. Sounds like you've got some great tips, holding your line is super important! Like you said you've got the right be there as much as the cars. 🙌

[@MrGuihk]

Really nice comment, something I also experienced riding in cities, if you ride fast or close to the speed limit of that street let's say 30kph, drivers will usually not try to overtake you and it is also a nice way of training

[@oliverc1293]

​@@MrGuihk Or is 30kph the worst speed? Slow in a car, but still awkward to overtake? I'm not sure..

[@tconnolly9820]

​@@MrGuihk OK, I appreciate this is a GCN video but the majority of average normal city and urban commuters are not going to be doing 30kmh for much of their ride or at all. 20kmh would be more like the speed for non roadies or less.

[@CsekeD]

Also in my experience as a courier in Budapest, signaling is king. But try to signal for as long as possible (not just put out your hand for a fracion of a second, cause the driver might not notice it)!!! I usually signal with my whole arm for ~2-4 seconds. Since I've started that I had a lot less tough moments in the traffic.

[@brosettastone7520]

Signaling too long can also be dangerous because one hand is off the brake levers and you only have the stopping power of the other hand

[@CsekeD]

@@brosettastone7520 Absolutely right! Of course safety, and ride stability comes first :)

[@tconnolly9820]

Two good mirrors, one on each handlebar are great in traffic just the same as on a motorbike. Hivis vest is also a great addition. I always wear a helmet. Something I started doing this winter as an experiment and will continue with is, I attached a 70cm length of light half inch or about 7mm black plastic water pipe to the back of my carrier and put a very bright 150 lumens flashing red light on either end. This is only the same width as my handlebars with the mirrors but to everything coming from behind it makes my presence on the road appear about 30cm wider on either side compared to having just a single red light on the centre of the carrier rack. I have really noticed the difference in the additional wider berth most traffic overtaking me from behind gives me. I have never seen anyone else doing it but I'm absolutely swearing by it. The pipe is flexible and will bend easily if it hits anything. It's attached by two pipe/jubilee clips which I can loosen or tighten in 30 seconds to add or remove the pipe as required. €2 for the pipe and clips. I have also added a pair of right and left Bluetooth indicators to make it even better. Many will consider it overkill but considering there is virtually no cycling infrastructure where I live it makes a huge difference mixing it with all traffic on the roads especially in the winter and the dark. If a 40 tonnes truck or a 2 tonnes car misunderstands my intentions on the road there's only going to be one loser.

[@gcn]

If you're an avid city cyclist we'd love to hear your tips in the comment section below! 🚴

[@WLEE100]

Lots of good advice.... Be bold,1 confident and aware..... Have some faith in your fellow man (there's always jerks)..... Share the resource (just because it's called a bike lane doesn't prevent scooter, one wheeler, ebikes, pedestrians from using it and no amount of outrage will prevent you).... As for rush hour.... there's nothing more than I love riding by all the cars that are stuck in "rush" hour traffic. Think about playing chess as you bike.... Plan ahead

[@KermitFrogThe]

Been a cycle commuter most of my life. Anticipation is the ultimate weapon, remember in rush hour the driver is likely tired, stressed and may not have noticed you. Use eye contact, if in doubt, shout or ring a bell. If the driver says they saw you, apologise. They will generally appreciate this and understand why you did it if you accept you were wrong that time. Rush hour is as essential for cyclists as cages if you work 9 to 5. Don't ride nervous. Car drivers with issues will try blocking you during this time, riding past on the driver side tends to make them realise this is pointless. Consider all hazards. Cars hurt more if you hit one, but they are more predictable and the driver is less likely to have one hand on a burger, the other on their phone and paying no attention to where they are going than a pedestrian. LIghts. There is so much research out there about cars, motorbikes and cyclists being involved in less accidents if they have lights on than if they don't. This is true day and night, obviously more at night, but have lights on all the time to make yourself more noticeable. Have a laugh and say nice things. I remember riding past stationary traffic, hearing the W12 of a bentley and commenting that it sounds nice. The driver smiled and gave a short laugh. Being human is good, making others aware of this stops them thinking of you as a bike and more as a person on a bike.

[@ciaoneef]

Move to the Netherlands 🟧

[@chrisstrider]

Ride like you would drive but not on the same roads

[@stasacab]

Lights on all the time. Pedestrians have been getting better with reflective wear, also with having reflective wear on their pets. Alternative route through the suburbs means less traffic. Cities actually start to have signs for the cycle roads that really lead to the destination meaning that I need to check my GPS less frequently.

[@Finnspin_unicycles]

Oh, hey, it's the city I live and ride in (even some of the exact roads). Top tip for Berlin specifically: there are small green signs with destinations and a bike on them, that quite often can point you to either good sideroads or roads with well marked bike paths. Good tips overall. One that I personally add is: be realistic on how fast you are and position yourself accordingly. There are some cyclists I overtake 4-5 times because they decide to stand in front of the waiting line, or start when the traffic light for pedestrians turns green, not the one for cars and bikes for some reason.. But also compared to cars, if you are not actually faster than traffic, don't squeeze through on the right at every traffic light. That just creates unecessary stress for everyone involved.

[@willkoper]

I usually squeeze through on the left at every traffic light ;) Also, drivers usually over-estimate their speed. In an urban environment you'll be lucky to average 18mph. Often it's more like 15mph once you account for traffic signals and the like.

[@PeculiarUncle]

4:50 Those change lanes are so smooth.

[@hogroamer260]

Love Hank's sense of humor! Wish the US drivers were as courteous as Europeans. I would expand on Hanks signaling to " communication". I think it helps to wave a car to pass me when I know they are considering it but don't know if it's safe to do so. One other tip I would offer is to wait for the green light at intersections. It may appear clear but cars can appear out of no where.

[@HShango]

I'm fortunate that I'm able to cycle in London, even though it isn't perfect....but it does allow me to get to where I want to get to my destination.

[@gcn]

City riding is always a bit of a compromise! Great to hear that you are still riding, what are your top urban cycling tips? 👀

[@sventice]

I love Berlin; it may be my favorite city anywhere. The bike infrastructure there is a bit thrown together, but from the perspective of a US citizen, it seems like a dream when you're riding around. I'd love it if my own city of Seattle (a city of good intentions but pathetic execution) could throw things together half as well. I do have a disagreement with one piece of advice in this video: Filtering between car traffic lanes is a bad idea, even in a bicycle-friendly place like Berlin. It's unnecessary, it annoys and confuses car drivers, and it's a very good way to get run over even when everyone has good intentions. Wait your turn like everyone else if no bike lane is available; things like filtering, in addition to being objectively dangerous, give other road users the impression that bicyclists are a lot of entitled rule-breakers.

[@tconnolly9820]

As another cyclist I agree 100%.

[@MikkiRose129]

As a new cycling commuter, I also agree 100%, and would like to add the additional fact of it is bloody terrifying too! 😂

[@reidwagner1508]

If I know I’m going to ride a bike and not have my own in a city or any area, i take my own helmet, lights, bidon, gloves, glasses and jacket. That way some things are familiar, especially when I was visiting London and riding a Boris bike. Checking tires and chain are needed always because the Boris bikes don’t get serviced a lot.

[@6ft8incyclist]

Very well done. I was very happy you covered command you position on the road. Seen so many cyclist being meek in traffic and the are the ones that get hit or have accident s..

[@davidmacmillan514]

Great vid Hank suggest you pick bike first then check, tyres, brakes and lights and bell maybe ! Normally do 500 miles a year on a TFL bike and find it quickest way round London !

[@gcn]

Checking your bike is super important! Great yearly milage, think of all the car rides you've saved! 🙌

[@CarlosParadaP]

I think you should do this video in Bogota, Colombia !!

[@gcn]

What's the riding like there? 🚴

[@ianlainchbury]

I think you should come and spend some time cycling in Birmingham lol. Totally different ball game. They have put cycle lanes to where the Commonwealth games was, and out to Selly Oak, but....the rest... exciting stuff lol

[@richardk6043]

Learn the hand signals for both slowing down, and/or stopping. Bikes don’t have brake lights. Sometimes your rider position may obstruct a stop sign from the vehicle behind. Multiple scenarios where we are not turning yet may want to communicate to cars or other cyclists that we plan to hit the brakes.

[@jerrysimpson1262]

You did a good job of explaining what to do to stay safe. Good video. Thanks. I don't feel good about riding without a helmet but when traveling it is tough to carry one with you on and off planes, trains and other modes of transportation. I haven't figured that out yet.

[@bikingwithemily1109]

Been cycling around Osaka the last 2 weeks and it's a different cycling world the London England was of my home town Winnipeg Canada. Garmin GPS to navigate is a must

[@gcn]

Are you enjoying seeing a new city on two wheels? 👀

[@bikingwithemily1109]

@@gcn absolutely love it, the only thing is finding bike parking or bike parking to where I can lock up my bike, all the bikes in Osaka have kick stands and nobody locks them up so for me sometimes it can be hard to find a place to park my bike

[@6ft8incyclist]

Japan is one of the best country’s in the world to cycle. If you have a chance hope you get the chance to ride in the Japanese Alps in the Nagano prefecture.

[@bikingwithemily1109]

@@6ft8incyclist my time is up, Friday is my last day to ride before flying back to Winnipeg but I've saved some for my next time in Japan

[@KeithCollyer]

Recent trip to Amsterdam and almost nobody wears a helmet. But most people are riding fairly sedately on the ample cycle or shared use paths

[@galenkehler]

In North America, parking is even more of a problem with bikes. I don't generally ride into the city to do anything there because I'd have to lock my bike up outside or some other such nonsense if I stop. So I'll keep riding until I come out of the city to a place I can take my bike in

[@nextbikede]

Such a great video! Thank you Hank, we are a huge fan! :) Nice to see that you had so much fun with our bike! If you travel to other nextbike cities, please feel free to contact us. We are also available in many other European cities. ;-)

[@AlisonAdventuring]

I never thought I would see a Nextbike on GCN :) I love Nextbike, super handy city bikes

[@Pseudynom]

5:53 Lane splitting is illegal in Germany, btw. And I'd also not recommend doing it. It's dangerous. It is legal to pass cars on the right side, if they are not moving and if there is enough space, but do it with apropriate speed. 2:46 Looks like you are still used to left hand traffic. ^^

[@johnluujl]

Look up local laws, i.e. is lane splitting allowed? Otherwise drivers won't know to look out for you. Don't ride to close to the car in front because for oncoming traffic you'll be hidden behind that car. Drivers looking to make a left turn (or a right in the UK) can only see a single car coming their way. I've seen plenty of bikers going into the side of cars because they weren't visible behind the car in front.

[@arieschop8726]

It is illegal to ride between lanes as shown at 5:55, in Canada

[@peterslater7791]

excellent video, hank! loved the tree hug bit. :). i think perhaps the most valuable section in the video is the 'anticipation' section - GREAT idea, as i think not enough cyclists out there do this.

[@trufflemonster5399]

The best advice I was ever given is when passing cars in traffic always watch the front wheels not just the indicators. A car can turn into you without indicating but the can’t turn into you without the wheels turning. No turning wheel no danger. Turning wheel - be very careful indeed.

[@christianb9597]

I fully agree with all of your statements in the video. Especially "... look ahead and do not hit pedestrians and other cyclists". Seems obvious, but by experience i know it is not for everybody obvious. 🤷 One question. German KZbinrs usually pixelated number plates of other vehicles, because it is a legal requirement in Germany. I have seen unpixelated number plates in this video. Isn't this a legal requirement in UK? It would be a pity, if you would get trouble because of this.

[@lmaoroflcopter]

Nope not a legal requirement. VRMs are not considered PII and are displayed in public.

[@christianb9597]

@@lmaoroflcopter Thanks. I am everytime surprised how different those things are handled in different countries.

[@petersteadman841]

Brilliant!

[@NathanLipkeEvilN8]

Does Si have any Speedo color recommendations?

[@J.S.A.]

You absolutely do have to worry about parking. I wouldn’t leave any of my bikes anywhere in London out of sight. Lack of proper parking, eg. Car park for bikes not just a metal rail out in the open is the main reason I don’t bike more than I do in London.

[@berattaner7370]

Thank you for the video.I am always scared about the conjunctions because are faster in the conjuctions. Some drivers don't care about the cyclist.They turn right or left.

[@alexayres6812]

I would actually recommend that instead of not using your phone at all, it's better just to get a good handlebar mount. My autistic/ADHD brain makes it impossible to remember routes/directions, so without Maps I'd be constantly pulling over to get my phone out and check I'm going the right way. This not only makes the journey much longer but can also be dangerous if you're on a busy road with nowhere safe to stop. I have a Quad Lock, it's easy to attach and detach my phone and it's right there on my handlebars so I barely have to look down to see it; far preferable to getting lost (or dropping my phone out of a pocket, which has happened before). But it's all about what you can do to make YOU feel safer on the road, so if you can memorise the route and keep your eyes on the road at all times, by all means do that.

[@gcn]

Great idea! Mounting a phone or gps bike computer like a Wahoo will give you more confidence whilst riding in new areas. 🗺 Have you ever used an old school paper map?

[@iandavis5189]

I simply use Google maps with earbuds giving me SPOKEN directions, no need to take your eyes off the road at all and still hear traffic around you 😊

[@mileslong9675]

I noticed something regarding the way you signaled at around the 5:15 mark. Is that a European or British standard method of signaling? Here in the US, I was taught that all signaling was done with the left arm. (Crooked up for a right turn, straight out for a left turn, and crooked down for slowing down or stopping.) Please let me know, as I hope to do some cycling in Ireland next year.

[@jhgylugkfhfhlgf]

AFAIK those left-arm-only signals were invented for cars when they didn't have blinkers yet (and noone would see the driver extend his right arm for a right turn, being inside the cab 🙂 ) using left arm for a left turn and right hand for a right turn seems common sense to me; will probably be understood all over the world and was all I knew (in the Netherlands and on trips in Western Europe) before reading about those (US specific?) left arm signals. Also the left arm crooked down for a stop will probably just confuse a lot of people. Interestingly enough in this case the Dutch law only states that you should indicate a directionchange using either your indicator (NL: richtingaanwijzer) or arm (NL arm ;-) ). I couldn't find a description of what the signals should look like.

[@tconnolly9820]

Looking forward to seeing you in Ireland. I'm in the North East just below the Northern Ireland border if you're passing and may need a warm shower. This guy gave terrible signals in my opinion. I would always check my mirrors, look behind and extend my right or left arm out straight for several seconds if possible. Virtually no-one will understand the bent arm signals anymore. That's consigned to history as far as I'm concerned.

[@mileslong9675]

@@tconnolly9820 I was in Ireland last summer, visiting Dublin, the countryside, and Galway. A beautiful land to visit. I heard a rumor that there’s a 200 mile bike trail, running south out of Galway, along the coast. Have you heard of it?

[@AlbertArt]

Lol did not expect a video with a city bike share.

[@geoffreyhoney122]

Thanks Hank and gcn for a helpful video! If anything, this video highlighted the fact that Berlin hasn't come very far since we were tourists on hired bike on bike tours back in 2018. The tours themselves and bikes and guides were awesome but the infrastructure was almost non-existent! Such a shame given Berlin is on mostly flat terrain! One tip I learned from my CanBike courses, is 'destination positioning '. Even more essential when proper infrastructure is almost nonexistent like Berlin. Emphasising predictability, you position yourself before an intersection (junction) in the lane/line of where you are intending to go. Sorry Hank, your 'signals ' would fail our course! Our instructor demanded a totally straight arm completely perpendicular to the torso. We practiced 'Look, Signal, & Lifesaving second look/check' before moving until we could do it in our sleep! Keeping speed down in traffic prevents tragedy with a sudden car 'right hook' (Berlin)/ 'left hook' (Britain). Other than bikeshares, looks like Berlin needs to play catch up with even North America. Great video. Love the content but could we see some more progressive infrastructure?

[@monikasessler7750]

Great video and don't forget: when cycling in Germany use the right hand side of the road 😉

[@hondasaurusrex6998]

Another great video by the Hankster! And a aaaawwwwww moment - Hank hugging a tree.

[@gcn]

Is that different from an Aaaawwww yeahhhhh moment... Hank's new catch phrase 👀

[@hondasaurusrex6998]

@@gcn much different. Sensitive and nature loving side of Hank.

[@krishnansrinivasan830]

Nice & Thanks :)

[@davidalderson7761]

Cycling on German roads when a compulsory ( mandatory ) cycle path is marked A group ride of 16 or 2 x 8 is allowed on roads when a dedicated cycleway is provided.

[@obikedog]

I'm most worried when out on country roads. Drivers, if they're going to be mean, usually choose to do so when there aren't any witnesses. That said, my next biggest worry is pedestrians. Always slow down for them because whether they're warned or not, they tend to think the cyclist is naturally going to ram them from behind and - paradoxically - begin moving left or right before they even know which side the bike is approaching. Be wary! Slow down to walking pace if necessary. Children are especially dangerous.

[@MichaelRideout]

Bucket List: 1. Epic ride and beers with Hank. I guess Si can come too.

[@chrisstrider]

Dan would already be in the bar

[@gcn]

Can the rest of us come 😢

[@MichaelRideout]

@@gcn bring the gang. Even that Alan guy from the Tech Show. Or maybe it’s Adam, who knows.

[@thosebikepackers]

Berlin is brillant by bike!

[@NoInterleaving]

so true, I lost mind there

[@gcn]

Have you ridden through the city? It's got a super cool exciting new scene too! 👉kzbin.info/www/bejne/pILEd3WkfpeKa8k

[@bobandmaryann]

At intersections I always wave to the person at the stop sign or stop light. Just to make sure they see me. Anything you can do to get a person to see you. In addition to this I ride in a manner that makes the car drivers understand my intentions. Being indecisive about what you are doing or being meek and scared will only confuse drivers about what you are doing. A recipe for disaster.

[@NinjaElephant]

It’s easy to cycle in cities, just expect everybody to be out there just to kill you. And never insist on your right of way. I never crashed or hit pedestrians in 20 years following these rules.

[@christophermee5214]

Not bad

[@matthewbaynham6286]

Read a copy of the highway code for that country, clearly Hank didn't do this because he was breaking a few German laws in this video.

[@javiertomas6817]

The bit where Hank rides on the white line between the vehicles, without choosing a lane of his own (min 5:48-7:22) looks pretty dangerous. I don't think it's even legal in Germany (or anywhere else in Europe for that matter).

[@davidalderson7761]

I think it’s the law to use the cycleway in Germany where one is provided. So I suspect it’s an offence when alone. Not sure if it’s allowed in group rides. Check this out. There isn’t much that is vague but you can be confused by the subtle differences between on road segregated sections. Basically it seems if there is a blue bike sign you must use it. While line versions on roads is maybe a gotcha if your not “on it”. www.germanroadsafety.de/downloads/pdf/Fahrrad_fahren_in_Deutschland_en.pdf

[@mrjack8849]

Ride to your ability. Just because a road has a bike lane on it, doesn’t make it safe for everybody. I see riders on cruiser bikes going 5-7 mph on 30-40 mph road with a shared bike lane. If you’re using that lane, I think you should be going 10-20 mph to at least be close to the flow of traffic.

[@johnnyblue4799]

"I'm signaling, I'm looking, then I'm moving..." - and he does all three in the same time...

[@tconnolly9820]

That was very bad.

[@potsdam521]

Dont drive near the rear of the cars because sudden braking AND can cause you missing some obstacle in the road !

[@Sir-Kay]

My old stumping ground, poor as hell though.

[@greigs9384]

Top tip. DONT use an expensive bike if you have to leave it locked anywhere in a UK city.

[@edmondwong5678]

Sadly, this advice extends to other cities worldwide. I had a bike stolen about 3 years ago while I stopped for a quick pizza lunch in the Seattle area. Made it the most expensive pizza I'd ever had, not to mention the time wasted on filing police reports and scouring ebay/Craigstlist/OfferUp. Sigh.

[@Pseudynom]

0:56 Congrats. You are now qualified to become the prime minister of Bavaria.

[@cb6866]

Villen Danke Hank......its a bit sad , you've gotta tell people to be polite . Yes. Thanks to all the GCN'ers , how did you like Berlin ??

[@davidalderson7761]

My only downside is …. When will U.K. catch up with places like Berlin for city riding. I have done Berlin by bike. It was massively busy BUT the cycle ways are everywhere and totally segregated for nearly all the ride. Cars must give way in loads of locations and crossing lights have specific pedestrian and bike sections to segregate even more junctions. So my question when will U.K. catch up? 1. In my lifetime, 2. Long after I am dead. 3. Never.

[@gcn]

What sort of infrastructure would you like to see the UK put in place? 🌆

[@davidalderson7761]

@@gcn my key is try the supermarket trolley test with a full trolley but you stop every 2 m to 5 m in the supermarket to a complete stop. Then push on. For a hour maybe doing that…..See how long it is before your fed up. Like walking and cycling round a town. Stop Start. Dismount, wait for the man to turn to green. rejoin the carriageway. Blah blah blah. 20m and 200m long cycle paths that mean you have to often swap sides of the road.Much like a supermarket trolley test. 😀

[@jw3638]

Be polite - don't be like Dan driving 😂

[@marksIItimewarps]

Having wide tires is important so you can pay more attention to the traffic and pedestrians around you than allowing yourself to get distracted by bumps on the road surfaces and swerving around them. Because riding as straight as possible and turning or changing lane as gently and smoothly as possible helps avoid distracting motorists needlessly. A distracted motorist is a danger to others, not only to yourself but to everyone else on the road, including pedestrians.

[@shuxiongbao2698]

Sense nearby motor drivers' intentions - some give you space, some in a rush, some just hate cyclists, others on drugs. Be a defensive cyclist.

[@theefamiliar3497]

Did he go to critical mass while he was in Berlin ?

[@1947wdx]

On thing I would suggest that goes with the positioning and with being courteous: Don't do what Hank was doing and ride down between two lanes of cars. Yes, you can squeeze through, and get ahead of some of the cars, but all it does in my experience is irritate the people in the cars. I've seen drivers move closer together just to stop a cyclist from continuing. Stay off the busy roads as much as possible, but when you have to ride there, ride with the flow of traffic. If you are in a city and are making a turn or need to get into another lane in anticipation of an upcoming turn, you are going to be moving at about the speed of the cars doing the same thing anyway. Don't be the jerk that irritates all the drivers. It's not you that will see the retaliation, but the next cyclist the irritated driver comes across.

[@fredmcgough748]

I would not ride in-between cars in the city. I would ride with traffic. You don't want to be in a cars blind spot.

[@gregmuon]

In the US, the main thing is to maintain maximum radius between you and traffic. Ignore traffic laws if necessary. Sorry a hole motorists, but that's how it is. When you guys start obeying traffic laws, I will. Watch out for SUVs. They're the biggest a holes.

[@eartharrow6772]

Parked cars opening their doors are the 5 crashes I've had in a city

[@gcn]

What do you think of the dutch reach? Car users using the arm furthest away from the door to open it, meaning the door opens a little less. 👀

[@eartharrow6772]

@@gcn it's a system I use but it was never taught to me as a new driver and therefore the majority of drivers

[@iperineum5211]

City biking rules: 1. Don't be an asshole (consider kids or other slower riders, bike lanes are no racetracks) 2. Don't overtake cars unnecessarily (they are always faster in the long run) 3. Wear a helmet, you'll need our brain later on. 4. Mind Lorries, they often can't see you and will fuck you up no matter what. 5. Enjoy the ride!

[@Finnspin_unicycles]

@@TylesBrain That's why the comment specified "unnecessarily". There are plenty of situations where I'm faster on my bike than the cars, so I will overtake, especially in dense traffic. I also have no issues taking the lane as a cyclist if appropriate, even below the speedlimit. I'll make the space to overtake when it is available, until then, don't leave them an opportunity to overtake to close to comfort. But there are also plenty of situations where it's obvious that I won't be faster than cars, so I just stay behind whatever car is in front of me at red lights, but other cyclists squeeze by the cars, only to be overtaken by them and me one minute later.. Yes, legally they are allowed to do that here, but they are making traffic worse.

[@iperineum5211]

​@@Finnspin_unicycles you got the idea mate!

[@crowmollymedia6480]

1. Take your own advice 2. You obviously haven't ridden in cities much. No, I'm not waiting for the slow wankpanzers. No, they are not faster. Pay attention. 3. British Columbia has public insurance. The public insurer, ICBC, did its own study after helmet laws were introduced. They found the incidence of brain trauma leading to death went UP. How about you show any evidence of this garment saving brains before advocating it. Do you wear one driving? 4. Yes, trucks are dangerous. So are cars. So is any motorised metal with an inattentive operator.

[@Malesoun]

Was enjoying that right up until the Helmet evangelism. Stick to the facts and ditch the hyperbole, Helmets are not life savers and that kind of narrative just fuels the irrational hate from those that can't stand anyone on two wheels. By all means, want to save yourself from a few scrapes if you fall off then a helmet is the way to go. Personally, I wear one for that reason and that reason alone, I am under no illusion that they are life saving because that's a lie.

[@crowmollymedia6480]

The public insurer in British Columbia, ICBC, did a study after helmets were made mandatory. They found that the incidence of brain trauma went UP. It stayed within the margin of error, but did tick up slightly. It shows they don't have the life saving properties the uneducated assume they do. I'm impatient with the helmet advocates too. I wear one to keep my teeth (full face Giro w removable chin guard) and face pretty. Same for colour of my clothes. Stop making up laws based on your unresearched feelings. Everybody who tells me to wear yellow is in a black car.

[@johnrobertbainbridge7667]

My city has been ruined by removing cars.

[@johanp8391]

Generally good points about city riding, unfortunately riding through the traffic as Hank did will put you in the hospital in most large North American cities (bike couriers excepted). Another point, Hank's weak gestures to signal lane changes are suitable for group rides, however in traffic you need your signaling to be bold. Get that arm up close to shoulder height to send a clear signal to cars.

[@alexayres6812]

Practice turning and signalling somewhere safe first, like a car park, so you will feel more confident on the roads. And then build up to quiet roads and then busier roads. It's all about building confidence and muscle memory. Also ditto what other people have said about making yourself visible. Get some good quality lights and reflective clothing (and a helmet if it makes you feel safer, but avoiding accidents in the first place should take priority). Avoid the temptation to hug close to the side of the road - you may feel like you're keeping out of the way, but you're also making it so that drivers are less likely to see you. It's safer to ride a little further into the road to make sure drivers see you and put the responsibility on them to pass safely, rather than counting on you to not get hit by them. Also, be aware that some drivers are just going to bomb past you at normal speed without giving you enough space, and be prepared for that. It's always unpleasant, but even more so if it comes as a surprise, so always be checking your surroundings and using all of your senses. You will quickly learn to recognise the sound of a dickhead coming up behind and can slow down and prepare accordingly.

[@gcn]

Thanks for sharing your tips Alex! It's great to see the GCN community helping each other out 🙌 Great tips about finding somewhere quiet and safe to practice first! It's even better if you can learn from friends and family that do ride. What's the one big of kit you have got that has helped you feel safe in whilst city riding?

[@tconnolly9820]

Two good mirrors, one on each handlebar are great in traffic just the same as on a motorbike. Hivis vest is also a great addition. I always wear a helmet. Something I started doing this winter and will continue with is, I attached a 70cm length of light ½ inch black plastic water pipe to the back of my carrier and put a very bright 150 lumens flashing red light on either end. This is only the same width as my handlebars with the mirrors but to everything coming from behind it makes my presence on the road appear about 30cm wider on either side compared to having just a single red light on the centre of the carrier rack. I have really noticed the difference in the additional wider berth most traffic overtaking me from behind gives me. I have never seen anyone else doing it but I'm absolutely swearing by it. The pipe is flexible and will bend easily if it hits anything. It's attached by two pipe/jubilee clips which I can loosen or tighten in 30 seconds to add or remove the pipe as required. €2 for the pipe and clips. I have also added a pair of right and left Bluetooth indicators to make it even better. Many will consider it overkill but considering there is virtually no cycling infrastructure where I live it makes a huge difference mixing it with all traffic on the roads especially in the winter and the dark. If a 40 tonnes truck or a 2 tonnes car misunderstands my intentions on road there's only going to be one loser.

[@ianstewart8301]

Politeness goes a long way! Great reminder

[@a1white]

I cycle in London. The change in cycle infrastructure in the past decade has been incredible. It’s so much better now

[@ByteSizeThoughts]

Doing my cycling proficiency test in primary school has been a foundation for my riding over the past 3 decades.

[@Aragorn.Strider]

4:35 - 5:01 is good signalling whereas 6:16 - 7:01 is bad signalling, so don't do that

[@Stratulax]

Being from NYC (and having ridden in traffic there for years), I was expecting this to be a joke with some of those crazy hand signals that they teach all of the noobs to use in those cycling training courses. But it was actually pretty decent. Especially since now I’m thinking of going on vacations and just renting bicycles when I’m there instead of taking one of mine along and having to deal with all of the packing and unpacking and setup issues. Thanks for the insight GCN (Hank). Good info indeed!

[@yannickhomecastle72]

If hank knew how many people used the tree he hugged as a public restroom I bet he would not have hugged it hahahah

[@grumbazor]

3:01 thats a 60€ fine. You are from england, so i may forgive you for riding on the wrong side of the road but its dangerous and annoyiing to other cyclists AF. Your signalling needs improvement. You signal like in a race or riding in a peleton. on public roads, look, signal, keep signaling, look again. Be clear in your communication. Arm higher and much longer. Give others (regardless of what they are driving) a chance to react to you. 5 seconds is the bare minimum, especially in the morning or after work rush hour. Most important, LEARN THE TRAFFIC RULES! you made some mistakes, only for showcasing of course, but this video would easily be above 500€ bucks just for fines. To ride safely know the rules, know your rights AND know your obligations

[@johngalvin-vi9hn]

Anticipate nothing ! Make sure and be sure before maneuvering unless of course you're a mind reader. Avoid roundabouts when wet, cars lay down a lot of oil. Lights on helmet and on end of handlebar of side cars overtake. Stay safe and happy cycling.

[@bikingwithemily1109]

But the 1 thing I hate the most about biking around the city is, biking over bridges on the sidewalk. The lions gate Bridge in Vancouver BC a arched suspension bridge and cycles are not allowed to bike on the road, skill and confidence come into play, people on foot and cycles biking both ways mess up and a steel beam has your name on it

[@seattlegrrlie]

Yes. The city bike path is NOT your personal Tour de France. Slow down. If you want to go 25mph, stay with the traffic

[@StuckOnAFireHydrant]

I've fell victim to that anticipation one. We had the left turn light (USA) I accelerated, glanced back for half a second to make sure no one was going to run me down trying to make the light, and next thing I know I was over the bars and planted back into the truck in front of me. The smartass in front of him slammed on his brakes even though we had the light. He got out made sure I was ok and honestly I was just more stunned. We also have specific hand signals that everybody is supposed to know, but no one does so I just point now.

[@Greg-1080p]

Aa a person who has crashed 5 times in a month witthout wearing helmet i recommend wearing one

[@lightningll2991]

Hank: Keep a nice gentle speed! As he's pounding on the pedals..

[@tconnolly9820]

Showing off.

[@bonnieyu8300]

Also bike outside the “door zone”. You don’t want to bike into a car door someone just opened as they exit their car.

[@gcn]

Very good point! Have your eyes on what's coming and any possible dangers. 👀

[@doproductions2008]

Yes! This was the comment I was looking for. My experience in NYC is that drivers on the road are far more aware of you than people exiting parked cars or taxis, not to mention mid-block pedestrians. Ride safely out there!

[@philrobson7976]

Being a North American rider I tend to dismount on the right side so I’m not standing in the traffic. I discovered that when I ride in London and Hong Kong I am much less adept at dismounting on the left side of the bike. Are others equally adept at dismounting on both sides or do you favour one side?

[@stevek8829]

I've never parked a bicycle along the curb.

[@Finnspin_unicycles]

I always mount and dismount left of the bike (in Germany, so driving on the same side as you). Never saw a reason to dismount to the right, I simply don't get of the bike if there is not enough space to do so.

[@philrobson7976]

@@stevek8829 nor have I parked my bike along a curb but it do move over to the curb to dismount. Then I move my bike to a safe place to lock it.

[@RBT9202]

You've broken some rules: you must ride in the bike lane if one is present, for example. Also, if you use your phone on the bike, you'll get sanctioned. I did, and it was 50 euros, just for looking at the clock.

[@slipperman61]

Here in Chicago, every other driver is staring into their phone.

[@Richarddraper]

Good advice on filtering in stopped traffic. Need to be looking well ahead to see if there is space and think about where you're going to be going next. Don't want to be out in the lanes if taking a left turn soon and will be in a rush to get back in position for this. Also if there isn't room, don't go, hold position and wait rather than take someones wing mirror off or scratch their car. City riding can be stressful and it's so much easier if you know where you are going. Practice when it is quiet first.

[@davidsullivan7290]

Or, just don't filter if your not comfortable with it. No need to move up between cars. Just stay behind the car that has stopped in front of you; stay in line.

[@andrewmcalister3462]

Thanks Hank for the bonus tour of Berlin in this video

[@transkryption]

Ride nude, with a funny hat & or balaclava. It awakens the primitive "lizard", hind-brain... It'll take any driver out of autopilot and switch on their cortex ie higher thinking brain. Trust me. Nothing safer! 💯👍🚴‍♀️

[@gcn]

Hahaha SI tested this one out 👉 kzbin.info/www/bejne/b4KXXoeAdq9_j5I ... Bit chilly maybe 🥶

[@transkryption]

@@gcn I'm an Australian... It's summer. No problem... Unless you want an alibi for "shrinkage"... Uhh it's cold today

[@adamz1977]

6 cars at a stop light = "all this traffic"? *Laughs in New York City.* How about 20 miles of bumper to bumper cars in traffic with only 12 inches between them? :D

[@cycli.x]

Thanks, Hank. I'm currently living in this wonderful city and cycling around 2 to 3 times a week. The cycle paths are mostly wonderful, and it's a pleasure to ride. Recently, I've started uploading my rides to KZbin, both for my own benefit and for anyone else who might be interested in seeing the routes. If you're interested, please check out some of my uncut videos, which show the entire ride without any comments, from start to finish. I'm not commenting here to boost my views; I have no interest in that. I simply like to share the paths with others who might appreciate them.

[@tomasr64]

Hey, GCN, come to santa fe NM and lets film a good how to ride in a city series. I liked the end of this video, play nice with the motorists. give the peace sign for sharing the road.

[@Ramon314]

Seeing this, I feel very lucky I'm Dutch haha

[@Ramon314]

@@MalcolmJameson_1 this is a joke, right? If it isn't, wow you're one weird individual.

[@Ramon314]

@@MalcolmJameson_1 you really don't know anything about the Netherlands. And no, riding in between cars on a 4 lane road doing 50kmh is not cycling either then, that's just dangerous. Yes I am a real cyclist, don't assume I'm not. I have 4 bikes, ride about 300km a week in the city as well as outside the city. You know what your problem is? You think a certain way of cycling is fun and then only consider that "cycling". You think you are everything and know exactly what is right or wrong. No you're not. Sitting on a bike and paddling IS cycling, no matter what speed or what location. No, the Netherlands doesn't offer 4 lane cycling, and that's for a reason. It's outright dangerous. Riding 40-50kmh where cars are doing 80kmh+ and continuesly switching lanes is dangerous. If there's anything I wouldn't call cycling even though your on a bike while paddling, it is risking your life by dodging cars. The Netherlands is one of the best countries to cycle in the world. For everyone. We are missing the big a- and descends, but besides that, it's the best. Super wide cyclist-only lanes, bike highways, the car drivers who expect bikes to ride around them, the countless passionate bike shops at every corner in the cities. If you either want to cycle with your friends to work/school at 15kmh on a rusty bike (opafiets/omafiets) or you want to race with your friends or alone doing 40kmh average, everything is possible and is relatively safe. I don't ride on a 4 lane road in between cars who might run me over, so maybe in your eyes I'm not a cyclist. But tell anyone else I own 4 bikes (all non electric, I'm no elderly), ride 300km a week on average while often doing 35-40kmh average on a ride but doing so using the purposely built cycling infrastructure, and people will definitely consider me a cyclist. Being Dutch in general would even almost qualify already. Rethink your opinions, let go of the hate and love cycling. Apparently cycling is much more than you thought ;) Have a nice day ✌️

[@bubblesezblonde]

Good vid Son-of-Hank's-Dad! I'd add gloves and running lights (day and night) too.

[@ChrisGuarraia]

Life is indeed good!

[@thevinayjap]

Can you do a comparison of effort between city and road cycling?

[@SolarizeYourLife]

I hope this is not crazy New York biker riding tips....sorry I will not split lanes on a bike or motorcycle...you either take the lane or stay off the street...I think every bike should have a 4 meter road marker sticking out 90° to the side, the width of what a car needs to pass a bike....

[@brayiovibret9494]

Man your very good adiviser.

[@DavidMackenzie]

Good advice Hank. One thing I see is cyclist not making handsignals visible enough. Put the arm way out. Waving your hand near your waist is never going to be seen!

[@davidanderson2306]

Luckily Hank is riding in the day time, if it was night time he may not have seen the "bike path sign" on the "LAMP POST" as it had no lamp.(2:10)

[@zalethciano]

Cool video, very useful. I live in Bogota, here is another level of traffic, caos, bad ways and many more

[@TimeHunter2305]

People don't seem to realise that if more people rode bikes to work there would almost never be traffic jams.

[@tanveerahmed3399]

I escape morning rush by going too early