When you buy a bike, cycling shorts or a set of spanners, it's always worth remembering that you get what you pay for - cheap prices usually reflect cheap goods.

If you want a bicycle to last a long time, it's a good idea to go to a reputable specialist who will advise you on the most suitable cycle for yourself or your family.

Bicycle standards
All bikes sold in this country should be made to a reasonable standard of safety and most should conform to regulations laid down in law. Bikes sold for leisure use must bear the British Standards mark BS 6102. If you have purchased a bike and are worried about its safety don't hesitate to contact your local Trading Standards Office.

Cycle helmets
Over half the reported injuries in cycling accidents are to the rider's head. Although a helmet will not prevent an accident, it will protect you from serious injury when riding, so make sure you wear a helmet at all times.

Buy a helmet that fits correctly and that bears one of the approved marks: BS 6863 or equivalent (e.g. ANSI Z 90.4 or SNELL). Replace any helmet that is damaged or has been involved in a major fall.

Checkpoints
Bicycles are not cheap. To make sure you get the best value for money, they must be looked after and serviced by a specialist at regular intervals. Between services the owner should regularly check brakes, steering, lights, reflectors, saddles, tyres, wheels and chain tension. This will ensure that the bicycle stays in a roadworthy condition.

Training
Generally speaking it is people that cause accidents! Most things are safe until people start to use them. Before children are allowed onto the roads, we should ensure that they are made aware of every relevant safety procedure.

If possible they should attend a 'Safer Cycling' training course organised Cambridgeshire County Council in conjunction with local schools.

Contact the Road Safety Office on 01480 375105 for information.

General bike safety
BE SEEN ...... BE AWARE ...... BE AHEAD ...... BE SAFE!

Road safety shouldn't be a matter of luck for cyclists. By following a few simple guidelines some accidents may be avoided:

Be seen at all times
Always wear bright clothes and have bright lights at night. Fluorescent clothes are ideal during the day but reflective clothes are better at night. Close fitting garments are better than loose fitting ones which may become trapped.

Be aware of other road users
Always following the Highway Code.

Be safe
Always wear a helmet.

Above all remember to have fun and enjoy your bike.