Ignore potholes at your peril

Watch cycling on the TV and for hours on end we see the pros pedalling wheel to wheel in perfect control of their bikes in a way that us amateurs can only dream of.

Yes, high speed accidents do happen as the pushing and shoving reaches a crescendo at those dreaded sprint finishes but very rarely is it due to the kind of basic accidents us commuters suffer – failing to unclip at traffic lights; applying the brakes midway through a corner; the usual stuff.

It’s almost surprising to hear then that Olympic Champion Dani King broke five ribs and suffered a horrendous collapsed lung just a few weeks ago due to hitting a pothole. But the sad news about one of GB’s finest talents serves to remind us that these pesky road impediments are no small problem, and can have catastrophic consequences for even the most seasoned cyclist. And with winter in full swing, ’tis the season that potholes flourish.

The argument has raged for some years now (and will most likely continue so long as cheap road surfacing work takes place), but while the problem persists all cyclists can do to safeguard against suffering the same fate as King, is take a few very basic precautions.

Eyes to the near distance
It sounds simple, but with so many distractions on those urban commutes it is very easy to look either at the far distance or just beyond the handlebars. Similarly, if you’re used to drafting in behind other cyclists on the way into work your view of any upcoming potholes, drains or slippy manhole covers will be obscured.

By giving yourself a little room from the surrounding traffic and maintaining vigilance as you pedal, you can spot holes or obstructions with enough time to safely negotiate the danger without veering recklessly into oncoming vehicles.

Maintain your machine
Tyre pressure, brake efficiency, well looked after gears and a frame without cracks or fracture all have a role to play against the hammering British roads can dish out. If you ride a road bike with narrow tyres and no suspension, you can find even a slightly uneven surface quite uncomfortable and difficult for bike control. But regularly checking and servicing your bike can help reduce the chance of mechanical failure or blowouts.

Beware water hazards
Potholes can quickly fill with water when the weather turns bad and the heavens open but it is not always easy to distinguish between potholes and general standing water.

For this reason, always try to ride around puddles in the road where possible. If other traffic prevents you from changing course, try to slow and ride through the edges of the water where it is likely to be shallower.

Brace, brace, brace
There will be times when, no matter how vigilant you are, a collision with a pothole will be unavoidable. If you do see a pothole late and find yourself having to ride through one, it is important not to panic.

Under these circumstances, grip the handlebars firmly without locking out your limbs so that you keep control but are positioned to absorb the impact. Resist the temptation to swerve or slam on the brakes at this point as it will increase the chance of you being thrown from the saddle.

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