Easy rider
Riding bikes can be easy and fun; however, it can be fatal as many people are not aware of the safety precautions.
According to the police, three cyclists died and 289 were injured in accidents in the first three months of this year.
Steve Coward, a certified biking instructor, says cyclists should take responsibility for their own safety, as accidents can happen to anyone.
It is important to do a basic bike check before you go out for a ride.
Mr Coward suggests an 'M' check - draw a giant imaginary letter 'M' in the air, which is roughly the shape of what parts need to be checked. These include the wheels, tyres, brakes, chain and saddle.
Few people wear protective clothing on biking trails. 'I used to wear my helmet when I rode to school every day in Canada. But I find that no one wears one in Hong Kong. I feel stupid wearing it here,' says Calvin Lam Ka-fai, a 13-year-old boy who is in Hong Kong for his summer vacation.
Mr Coward warns that at some stage, probably when you least expect it, you may fall off your bike.
'In some cases it will be your head that hits the floor first, and wearing a helmet means the difference between standing up and walking away or ending up in hospital with a serious head injury or worse,' he says.
Mr Coward also suggests wearing mitts or gloves to absorb some of the vibration from the handlebars, making the ride more comfortable and offering protection in the event of a fall. Shin pads and elbow protectors are a little extreme for road riding but are needed for off-the-road downhill trail riding where you are more likely to fall.
While riding a bike, focus is important. 'One golden rule with cycling is that wherever you look, your bike, as if by magic will go,' he says.
'So try to focus way ahead where you are aiming to go and not at a tree or hole in the road that you are trying to avoid.'
If you are bored with riding on the crowded cycle path between Sha Tin and Tai Po, mountain biking might be an option.
'It's exciting, gets you far away from the crowds, and if you're really lucky, gives you a chance to come face to face with wildlife such as porcupines, wild boar and barking deer,' says Mr Coward.
Mountain biking is physically challenging and needs a lot of planning.
'Going with an experienced rider the first few times or even taking a few lessons is recommended,' he says. 'A well-maintained bike is essential as are enough water and snacks.'
Mr Coward is organising a bike training programme that meets British cycling standards for teenagers later this month. Check out www. cross country hk.com/bikewise
