When I first started riding a bike in London, I knew next to nothing about cycling or bikes.
I thought hugging the kerb would make me safer, and if I had to turn right I would get off and walk my bike rather than risk venturing further out into the traffic.
I couldn’t name most bits on my bike, let alone know what to do if anything wasn’t working. I couldn’t fix a puncture, replace a brake pad or even put my chain back on if it came off.
I thought wearing hi-viz and a helmet was compulsory; the idea that it was possible to look good while cycling never crossed my mind. Continue reading