1. Brace yourself for the rain/cold.

Ireland’s climate isn’t always conducive to cycling.

In fact, the sorrow/self-pity that accompanies cycling in adverse weather conditions may make you want to just leave the country altogether.

One of the most common indignities endured by cyclists is a wet arse in work.

Solution? Invest in this Ass Saver, a foldable mudguard that you insert in your saddle and that promises to protect your posterior in even the most hazardous conditions. It ships for just €7.99 and is, by all accounts, a miracle worker.

Ass Savers Ass Savers

Do it.

2. You’re going to need to fork out money for a decent lock.

PA Archive / Press Association Images PA Archive / Press Association Images / Press Association Images

With bike theft and vandalism on the increase, it is crucial that you fork out cold hard cash for a decent lock.

This is not something to scrimp on: paying €12 for a lock isn’t worth having your bike stolen, now is it?

A quick internet search reveals that quality bike locks retail in Dublin for anything from €35 to €100+. One of the most popular, trustworthy locks is the Kryptonite U Lock, which is €55.

Similarly, the Kryptonite Fahhggettaboudit U Lock is €99 and will stave off even the most enterprising thief.

(Do you have a recommended lock? Let us know in the comments.)

3. However, a good lock is useless if you can’t lock your bike properly.

A surprising number of cyclists still don’t really have a notion as to how to lock their bike up properly.

See this? This is not how you do it.

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This video from the Metropolitan Police outlines the fundamental principles behind locking your bike up safely. (Tie it to something sturdy, place the lock through the frame and wheel, don’t rely on just a cable lock, etc.)

It’s also often recommended that you use two locks. You can use a U-lock and a cable locks or, if you really want to be Mr. Safety Pants, you could just try the double U-lock method*.

(* = These are heavy, so probably best reserved for if you’re leaving your bike somewhere for a long period or in an area prone to theft.)

4. You will encounter this sort of nonsense.

Earlier this year, an Irish researcher stated that there was a ‘turf war’ between cyclists and drivers, particularly on Dublin roads.

As a cyclist, you will encounter angry drivers and reckless cyclists, so…

5. Don’t be that guy

Don’t be the type of cyclist that gives other cyclists a bad name.

Obey red lights, be sound, etc.

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6. Learn your hand signals

This helpful infographic illustrates the cycling hand signals, which may come in handy for urban cyclists weaving through traffic in Ireland.

Spokes and the City Spokes and the City

7. You gotta get lights.

Halfords Halfords

You know this already, but LED bike lights are absolutely essential for any cyclist. Want to get your hands on some free bike light swag? The Road Safety Authority is currently sending free bicycle lights to anyone who submits a safety tip to their Facebook. 

Now you have no excuse.

8. Cycling in a skirt?

All female cyclists will be keenly aware that cycling in a skirt can be pretty difficult terrain to navigate, especially if you don’t want to flash your knickers at passers-by.

It turns out that cycling in a skirt need not be so treacherous. With simply a penny and a rubber band, you’re in business. This instructional video courtesy of Penny In Your Pants demonstrates how these two everyday implements can be your life saviour.

You’re welcome.

Johanna Holtan / Vimeo

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