A touch of wheels is the biggest single cause of accidents. Last week we had “a touch of wheels” and Nick Kennedy went down. A rider on The Great Victorian Bike Ride had “a touch of wheels” and lost his life. A few tips to prevent “a touch of wheels”:
- Never overlap wheels.
- Ride to the conditions. On windy or wet days allow a greater distance to the wheel in front.
- Watch and get to know other riders. Some riders are naturally less smooth than others. Allow a bigger margin when riding with them.
- When you are caught or catch a group be aware of riders you have not ridden with.
- When standing up on bike do not throw your bike backwards, keep your momentum going forwards.
- Riders tire later in races. Be more vigilant toward the end of races.