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Be visible Beware the police can fine you for not having lights on your bike at night. A high-visibility vest can be useful not just at night, they come cheap and fold up small into your bag. Stay dry As it rains nearly every day in Manchester! I would recommend carrying a thin pair of waterproof trousers and a waterproof jacket/poncho. There are few mud guards that will stop all splashes. Have fun Don't forget that you can take your bike on the train so why not have a day riding in the countryside? To exhibit bike related art and for bike related games, such as cycling treasure hunts, alleycat racing and bike polo see www.ibikemcr.org.uk There are a variety of social rides in the city, such as Critical Mass; this is an event that happens at the same time in cities around the world- cyclists in Manchester meet 6pm at central library every last Friday of the month to ride together. Another monthly ride Critical Commute meets in the morning, for more information see www.loveyourbike.org. Discover new routes It's not all about Oxford Rd, there are often quieter or more scenic parallel routes to take. Ask for advice in your local shop, Bicycle Doctor on Dickenson Rd in Rusholme has maps of local cycle paths; www.bicycledoctor.co.uk Don't break the bank For second hand bikes try your local small shop such as Withington Cycles or Paul's Bicycle Boutique, tucked away behind Sandbar on Grosvenor Street. There is a good annual jumble sale at the Velodrome of Sports City and some second hand bargains can be had online. Get a good lock Bike theft is high in Manchester. Go for thick, chunky, flexible locks, or solid metal 'D-Locks'. Thinner ties can be useful to prevent quick release tyres being whisked off. But ultimately, if someone wants your bike they can find a way to break the lock, so try to lock it up in sensible places, for short periods of time. |
Action for Sustainable Living, Fourways House, 57 Hilton Street, Manchester, M1 2EJ
Tel: 0845 456 4468 / 0161 237 3357 Charity Number: 1114055
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Tel: 0845 456 4468 / 0161 237 3357 Charity Number: 1114055
AfSL on Facebook
template Siberia