A beginner’s guide to the Highway Code for cycling

Hear from our Campus Cycling Officer Bianca to learn more about the Highway Code to help you on your cycling journey.

Whether you are a beginner, a seasoned cyclist, or have just picked up your bike again after a few years, it’s always helpful to review the best way to cycle. New road regulations which prioritise pedestrians and cyclists mean that a lot has changed in the last few years, and it’s important to see how these affect you. This could also be particularly important if you are an international student, as the rules in the UK may be different to your previous country.

This is why we’ve put together a comprehensive guide from the government’s Highway Code to highlight key aspects of cycling, from road positioning to hand signals and what to wear. If you have any further questions, don’t hesitate to email transport@rgu.ac.uk.

If you would like a more visual introduction to cycling in the UK, the following video is a great tool to learn all of the rules you will need to know: Essential Cycling Skills.

Cycle lanes and tracks

Cycle lanes are marked by a white line along the carriageway or to the side of a road. These are meant to give cyclists some protection from road traffic, so it may feel safer to use them rather than the car lanes. It is illegal for cars to drive through them during their times of operation. If the lane is marked by a broken white line (dashed) then cars are permitted to drive in this.

Similarly, cycle tracks often run alongside footpaths or pavements, and provide even more protection due to being separated from road traffic by verges, kerbs or white lines. Although these are limited throughout Aberdeen, it could be helpful to make use of these when you can.

The photo below shows how you can distinguish between the two:

(Note: The council is also in the process of pedestrianising central zones of Aberdeen, through the introduction of cycle lanes along Union Street and potentially even down to Union Square in order to connect the two).

If you’re sharing a cycle path with pedestrians, keep in mind that they are vulnerable users of the road and warn them when you are passing by. Make sure to keep a slow pace and let them know you are near, for example by ringing your bell. You also don’t know if a pedestrian has a hearing impairment, is blind or partially sighted, so always take extra caution. And also make sure to not pass horses or horse-drawn vehicles at high speed as you might startle them.

Bus lanes

A majority of bus lanes can be used by cyclists. This will be indicated by road signs, so keep an eye out. Just be mindful of passengers coming on and off the bus, and do not pass between the kerb and a bus when it has stopped.

Road positioning

Contrary to popular belief, it is actually safer to cycle in the centre of the lane than to the side. Doing so will ensure that cars see you as a road user and do not try to overtake you unsafely, particularly at junctions and roundabouts. Only move to the side if you feel unsafe in busy situations, in order to allow cars moving quickly to overtake you with plenty of distance.

At roundabouts, signal right to show you are not leaving the roundabout, and left when you are approaching your exit. Always make sure to look behind you when switching lanes to ensure you have enough space and time to do so.

If you feel unsafe at any point, always remember that you can dismount and wheel your bike across on the pavement instead.

Hand signals

When cycling on roads, it is essential that you use the correct hand signals to indicate to other road users of your intentions. If you do not do so, it will increase your chances of an accident.

Please make sure you give plenty of time for road users behind you, by indicating as soon as soon as you approach a junction.

Clothing and accessories

Although there are no legal requirements for what to wear whilst cycling, a helmet will significantly mitigate the chances of head injuries in the event of an accident. Thus, we strongly recommend you invest in one. BikePad typically provide one when you rent a bike from them, or you can buy one from Halfords or Decathlon for just £10.

Similarly, opting for bright, high-visibility jackets and reflective pieces (such as armbands) could increase the chances of other road users seeing you, particularly at night-time or in poor light conditions.

In terms of bike accessories, it is required by law to have white front and red rear lights lit (particularly at night), along with a red rear reflector and amber pedal reflectors. These are often provided with a new bike but can also be bought at Halfords at a low price.

Lastly, it is wise to invest in a secure lock in order to reduce the chances of your bike getting stolen. A silver-grade D lock or a chain lock is recommended as a minimum to keeping your bike safe.

Additional tips

When starting to cycle, look all around to make sure it is safe before moving away from the kerb, when pulling out to overtake, passing stationary vehicles, turning at junctions, or when stopping.
Try to avoid potholes, drains, service covers and any other obstructions on the road.
Take care when passing parked vehicles, leaving enough room (a door’s width or 1 metre) to avoid being hit if a car door is opened, and watch out for pedestrians stepping into your path.
Be aware of traffic coming up behind you, including other cyclists, and give a clear signal to show other road users what you intend to do.
It is possible to ride beside another cyclist on the road, particularly in larger groups or when accompanying children or less experienced riders.
Do not ride close behind another vehicle in case it stops suddenly.

Learn more about cycling at RGU, including support on getting to campus and renting a bike, on our website: Cycling | Transport and Parking.