Cycling in the countryside
- Take extra care for the first couple of miles out of Lewes where you may have to ride on main roads. Avoid the worst of the traffic by setting off early at weekends, or after the morning rush midweek
- One way of avoiding cycling out of Lewes is to take the train to a country station such as Southease, Berwick or Glynde. Or use the by-way out of Landport towards Offham
- Look out for horse riders - slow right down and let them know you are there before passing. This prevents horses from becoming alarmed
- Carry a snack and enough to drink - you can get special water bottles that fix to your bike frame
- Carry one or two inner tubes in the right size for your tyres, and learn how to change them - it's much easier than repairing a puncture out on the road. You'll also need a couple of spanners and tyre levers and a bicycle pump
- Wear light, bright or reflective clothing so that you can be clearly seen, and carry your bike lights if there is any chance of being out after dark
- Wear layers of comfortable clothing so that you can remove some as you get warmer
- If it's been some time since you did any maintenance or repaired a puncture you might benefit from going on a bike maintenance course. Contact: 01273 729979 or www.bikeforlife.org.uk