Sure, it can be a little annoying when you’re seemingly surrounded by a large pack of Lycra-clad weekend trippers but our tips will allow you to peacefully coexist with two-wheeled road users and make using the road safe for everyone.

Rules really do rule

Cyclists are permitted to use the road, but they must follow the same road rules as drivers. This means stopping at red lights, signaling when turning and keeping to their designated lanes, or to the left of the road if there is no bike lane.

Bike riders can ride two abreast, but they cannot be any more than 1.5m apart for safety reasons.

But even though everyone should be following the road rules, the key to coexisting peacefully is courtesy.

If a road is narrow then cyclists should ditch their side-by-side riding pattern and go single file instead to allow traffic to flow freely.

Likewise, car drivers should keep a good distance from cyclists and only overtake when it is safe to do so.

And please, never honk at a cyclist – the sudden noise can startle a rider and no one wants a collision and a fall on the road can be disastrous.

What car drivers should do

Keep an eye out for cyclists when driving and remember they may appear suddenly out of your blind spot. They are smaller and less colourful than cars (although some Lycra outfits are pretty loud and in rainy conditions most cyclists will wear fluorescent wet weather jackets).

Particularly watch out for bike riders at intersections and roundabouts, and for children riding bikes in residential streets.

Overtake a cyclist with care – only do so when it is safe, leave a clearance of at least 1m – or 1.5m if you are travelling faster than 60km/h – and only move back into the lane when you are a safe distance ahead of them.

You need to give way to cyclists who are using bicycle lanes, especially if you are turning left. Indicate well in advance so they know what you are doing. And never drive or park in the designated bicycle lane.

One of the biggest dangers for cyclists is being “doored”. This happens when a driver of a parked vehicle opens his door and an unsuspecting cyclist crashes into it. Always check your mirrors and look over your shoulder before you open your door.

What cyclists should do

Cyclists need to follow the road rules at all times – this means no running red lights or stop signs, turning without signaling or riding in the right lane when you should be in the left.

Always indicate if you are turning, changing direction or stopping to give motorists plenty of time to react and drive safely around you.

Drivers need to be aware of you so don’t be afraid to be loud with your clothing – fluoro is so on trend right now! This will help during the day but especially in the evenings.

Make sure your bike has lights for riding at dusk, through misty conditions or at nighttime.

Get a bell for your bike. It can be used to alert drivers of your presence, particularly if you are passing rows of parked cars.

By being courteous and following the road rules, it’s easy for both cyclists and drivers to have a pleasant day out on the road.

If you enjoyed this article, you might like reading a Beginner’s Guide to Buying a Bike. 

You find find bike retailers on Yellow Pages. Click here for more information.