Why Cycle?

Have you ever noticed how slow it can be driving around town or just popping down to the shops? Cycling, particularly in towns, can often be quicker and more convenient than the same journey by car, and finding a place to park your bike at the end of the trip is easier than parking a car.

You will also find out very quickly that it will help you to save money, particularly for shorter trips.

In addition cycling is a particularly good way of getting your dose of daily exercise and doing your bit for the environment.

Getting cycling to work for you?

Experts recommend being active for a total of 30 minutes a day, on five or more days of the week. And the good news is that these 30 minutes can be made up of shorter bouts of 10 to 15 minutes, making cycling an ideal way to hit the target. www.whi.org.uk

Becoming an active commuter who cycles part or all of the way on your regular journey to work, will help you feel fitter and healthier. If you become more active on a regular basis you can:

reduce your risk of developing heart disease and having a stroke
help to prevent high blood pressure
help to control your weight and cope with stress
maintain good mental health

Cycling in East Sussex

Download from a selection of cycle routes and maps with information about cycle rides for all abilities in East Sussex.
Eastsussex.gov.uk cycle routes.

The basics

Obviously, before you can start cycling you need a bicycle. Many people have already got a bike, it might be old and a bit dusty, but with a little effort and a good service will do the job. If you decide you would like a new bike, your local bike shop will be able to help you to find the right one for you.

Any bike in good condition is attractive to thieves. Protect your bike by using a good "D" lock. If your bike has easily detachable components such as a quick-release front wheel or seat, remember to remove these or padlock them with your bike.

Your local dealer will also be a good place to get advice about personal safety. Two of the most important considerations are:

Safety

We recommend that you wear a properly fitted cycle helmet when you're cycling – they are effective at reducing the severity of injuries in the event of an accident.

Be seen! Wear reflective fluorescent bands and bright, reflective clothing where possible. If you're cycling in the dark use front and rear lights – this is a legal requirement as well as an important safety measure.

Choose a route away from busy, fast roads if you can. East Sussex has an ever developing network of safe, traffic free, cycle routes. If there isn't a dedicated route or you can only do part of the journey on a cycle path, then plan routes which will allow you to stay off main roads and on quieter routes. It might mean a bit of a detour but the trip will be more enjoyable.

Follow the Highway Code don't jump red lights, ride on pavements or disobey road signs.

Always carry a pump, puncture repair kit and basic tools such as a cycle spanner and tyre levers.

Be confident. Ride about one metre from the kerb to ensure you have enough space and are seen by other road users. Use arm signals to let other road users know what you intend to do and always look carefully behind you before any manoeuvre. Remember you have as much right to use the road as motor vehicles.

Better for your Environment

If you cycle for part or all of your journey on some days you'll help to improve your environment by contributing to a reduction in:

air pollution from exhaust emissions
traffic congestion
noise levels in the city
stress generated by sitting in traffic jams

And if you need some more information…

East Sussex County Council
Tel: 01273 48100
Email: travelchoice@eastsussex.gov.uk
Website www.eastsussex.gov.uk/cycling
The ESCC Cycling Officers can give you advice on the best route to work, information on planned and existing cycle routes in the county and other technical information.
Road Safety Officers:
Tel: : 01273 482150
Sustrans
Tel: 0117 926 8892
Fax: 0117 929 4173
Email: info@sustrans.org.uk
Web site: www.sustrans.org.uk
Sustrans works through practical projects, such as the National Cycle Network and Safe Routes to Schools, to design and build routes for cyclists and walkers. These routes provide for journeys to work, school and for leisure.
CTC
Cotterell House
69 Meadrow
Godalming
Surrey GU7 3HS
Tel: 0870 873 0060
Fax: 01483 426 994
Email: cycling@ctc.org.uk
Web site: www.ctc.org.uk
The largest cycling club in the country. Main functions are to lobby in favour of cycling, and to provide information and advice on touring, technical, insurance and legal matters.
Webportal for everything cycling
www.bikeforall.org