Warning to cyclists inspired by Olympics

Pedal Ready, a cycling co-operative in which offers courses to people wanting to use their bike for commuting, said many people who haven’t cycled for a while are unaware of road conditions.

Experts at the organisation said the real risks of cycling were actually small, but could be reduced by further by taking a Government-funded National Standard cycling certificate.

Spokesman Ken Woodhouse said: “It’s great that more and more people are taking to two wheels inspired by the Olympics.

“But to make sure they enjoy their cycling, we think every new cyclist should book on to a free cycling commuter skills session.

“By learning some simple strategies, which aren’t always obvious, you can usually cut out problems before they happen and get on with the traffic around you.

“We’ve worked with over 1,500 adults so far in South Yorkshire, and everyone we help says they feel more confident in traffic afterwards.”

According to Pedal Ready, taking a National Standard road craft session improves confidence for cyclists by showing them how to confidently share the road with motorists.

Government studies have shown that taking a professionally-led session more than halves the risks of road cycling in busy traffic conditions.

Similar courses are available across the region, with Bikeability Leeds and Cycling City York also offering tuition, although some courses involve paying a small fee.

The courses are free in Sheffield and Rotherham after they were funded by the two councils.

For information about courses visit www.dft.gov.uk/bikeability, or for more details of the South Yorkshire courses call 0114 241 2775 or email start@pedalready.co.uk