Unsafe road surfaces and close passes are top commuting hazards says British Cycling as it launches commuter cycling videos

A survey of British Cycling’s membership has revealed that unsafe road surfaces and vehicles overtaking too closely are the top concerns for commuter cyclists. The news comes as the organisation launches Commute Smart, a series of videos covering various aspects of commuting by bike.

The survey received almost 25,000 responses and also highlighted poor quality cycle lanes and vehicles travelling too quickly as additional concerns.

British Cycling’s Campaigns manager, Martin Key, said: “We want the government to make a commitment to cycling as a form of transport and to get the infrastructure in place so that cycling is embedded in our culture like it is in countries such as Germany, the Netherlands and Denmark.

“However, we recognise that culture change takes time and the more people we have cycling on our roads the better. Commuting by bike is beneficial to individuals and society in so many ways. It will save people money and improve their fitness and health, while more people cycling can also ease pollution and congestion on our roads.”

The videos cover various topics, including appropriate clothing, how to deal with junctions and hazards, and how to use your commute as training.

“The series of short videos gives people step by step tips and advice for commuting with confidence,” said Key, who added that they were designed for both regular cyclists and also those who were thinking about giving cycling a try for the first time.

Edmund King, AA president, said:

“It is essential that cyclists and drivers follow the rules of the road so that they can live in harmony and stay safe on our streets. Commute Smart is a great series of videos that will help encourage cycling and instil good habits. We would encourage drivers and cyclists, who are often the same people, to check out these videos.

“At the AA we launched our Think Bikes stickers and campaign to remind drivers to look out for cyclists and we believe that some of the Commute Smart videos will help cyclists look out for drivers.”