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Equipping yourself

See the following information about types of bicycles and accessories you can buy, keeping your bicycle secure and insurance. See also the information leaflets to download at the bottom of the page.

Types of Bicycles

Hybrids – A cross between a road bike and a mountain bike. Good starter bicycles that are useful for cycling around the city.

Mountain Bikes – For off-road cycling. This type is the most prone to cycle theft so ensure that you have enough locks and security. Mountain bikes can have both front and rear suspension (which can make on-road riding more difficult). If you have a mountain bike you can put ‘slick’ tyres on rather than the chunky tyres to help a smoother road journey. The cheaper the bicycle the more likely it is to be a heavy.

Road/Touring Bicycles – Bicycles that are lighter and and more streamlined for an easier ride on road and longer distance journeys.

Folding Bicycles – A bicycle you can fold up and carry with you, e.g. on the train. There is a huge range of folding bicycles available, some of which are more suitable for longer journeys and they are very useful for journeys combined with public transport.

Adapted Bicycles - Several adaptations of bicycles have been to developed to enable people with different physical and sensory impairments to cycle. There are side by sides, hand crank (allowing people in wheelchairs to cycle) and many more. Some of the cycle hire centres offer a hiring service.

Specialist Bicycles - There are a number of specialist bicycles for the more serious cyclists including recumbants and lightweight racing bicycles.

Cycle accessories

Cycle Helmet (not a legal requirement but we recommend you wear one)
Breathable waterproofs
High visibility clothing
Gloves
Bicycle clips

Lights
Bell (if not already fitted)
Puncture Repair Kit, Tool kit, Spare inner tube
Pump
First Aid kit

Although rucksacks are convenient it is safer to carry items on the bicycle using a rack and special bags for bicycles (panniers). This helps to even out the weight you are carrying.

There are many different types of carrying equipment available from wire and wooden baskets to rear and front panniers. Information on the different types is available through most cycle shops and other cycling websites.

Security

Always lock your bicycle to a fixed structure when you leave it somewhere. D Locks and cable locks are the most popular and widely available locks. Using two locks will reduce the chance of your bicycle being stolen. Mountain bikes are at high risk. Ensure that if you have quick release wheels that both are locked on to the cycle stands.

To find out more about cycle security you can download the leaflets at the bottom of this page.

There is also a national bicycle register scheme where you can register your bicycle(s). There is a fee from £5.95 for this service dependant upon the number of bikes you register. If you are unlucky enough to have your bicycle stolen it can then be registered on the stolen cycle register. Please follow this link to the National Cycle Registration website for more information.

For extra precautions, you can get a 'Recorded Cycle' form from your local police station or cycle dealer. Photograph your bicycle and record all its details including make and model of bicycle and any distinguishing marks.

If your bicycle is stolen you will need a crime reference number to claim from your insurance. Contact your local police station in the event and they will guide you through the process.

Insurance

Personal Insurance

Many companies offer cycle insurance and it is worth shopping around for a good deal. Local cycle groups may offer discounts or insurance policies as part of membership benefits. Insurance is also available for personal liability and 3rd Party cover for any accidents you may be involved in, for any injuries incurred by yourself or others when you are out and about on a bicycle.

Cycle Insurance

It is a good idea to insure your bicycle and there are many companies who will provide you with cover. Depending on the value of your bike you may find that you can include it in your Household Insurance. However you must check your policy to find out what level of cover is offered. If you have a high value bicycle, then specialist cycle insurance is probably the most appropriate route.