Safe Riding

Safety Checks


OYBike has a dedicated maintenance team that checks the OYBikes on a regular basis for signs of damage or general wear and tear. However, before riding an OYBike you are advised to carry out a brief safety check on the general appearance, brakes and steering. If you have any concerns, please phone Customer Services on 0845 226 57 51.

Safe Cycling on your OYBike


Cycling is an efficient and enjoyable way to travel. Taking responsibility for your own safety, and that of others, is an important part of cycling – especially in towns and cities where negotiating traffic can be challenging.

Being proficient and confident on a bike will make your cycling safer and more enjoyable. If you plan to cycle regularly then it's a good idea to get some cycling training to improve your skills and help you feel more confident.

We recommend that you contact your doctor prior to hiring an OYBike, and particularly if you currently have, or have a history of, any of the following:
  • Heart disease, angina or any kind of heart condition
  • High blood pressure
  • Epilepsy
  • If you are pregnant
  • If you have had surgery within the last 6 months
  • If you are recovering from serious illness
  • If you are prone to dizzy spells, blackouts or temporary confusion
  • Any kind of atrophy (muscle wasting)
  • If you have an eye condition or infection which affects your vision (not glasses or contact lenses)
  • If you have any kind of ear infection which affects your balance
  • If you are on any medication that advises you NOT to handle any machinery or drive, then this also applies to riding or handling a bicycle in or out of public view.

Cycling Helmets


Wearing a helmet at all times when cycling is strongly advised. OYBike does NOT provide helmets so when you hire a bike from OYBike we advise you to bring your own. Your helmet should fit snugly so that it stays in place. All our bikes have baskets so that you have somewhere to store your helmet when you are not wearing it.

Cycling at Night


OYBike's bikes are fitted with white lights at the front and red reflecting lights at the back to ensure you are seen at night and in poor weather conditions.

Cycling Confidence


Your cycling confidence and safety will improve by:
  • buying an up to date edition of the Highway Code, taking careful note of what the law says on bikes
  • being proficient in cycling including using hand signals and looking behind and around you
  • being aware of what is going on around you and not just in front of you
  • taking extra care when wearing headphones
  • watching your position on the road
  • making eye contact with drivers
  • Take extra care when cycling near HGVs and other large vehicles.
  • Wear bright clothing so that you can be seen, especially in the dark.
  • Plan your route and check out where cycle lanes are in operation and where you can use bus lanes.
  • Use clear hand signals.
  • Look out for buses, motorcycles and taxis in bus lanes.
  • Wait ahead of other vehicles at traffic lights in the area identified for cyclists.
  • Look out for pedestrians as well as vehicles.
  • Use your bell.
  • Avoid cycling to the left of, or close to, the front of an HGV where you won't be seen.
  • Avoid passing buses on the left when they are at bus stops or are pulling in.
  • Do not ride in bus lanes unless indicated otherwise.
  • Avoid being aggressive with other cyclists or drivers.
  • Do not drink alcohol when you are cycling.