Don't venture onto roads if you're not confident. Maybe in a quiet neighbourhood it would be OK, but stay off the main roads. BUT, make sure you have a helmet that fits, and gloves. The gloves are for when you fall because you will put your hands out to meet the ground.

Did I mention the helmet? And, remember to wear a helmet.

Have fun. I love my bikes.

[–] eagleeyedtiger 2 points 9 months ago (1 children)

Yes I've sorted a helmet! But haven't got any gloves yet. I'll have a look during the Waitangi day sales.

What's the etiquette around riding on footpaths? I always thought you weren't supposed to. I do have to use some roads to get to the shared bike path otherwise..

[–] ColonialSpore 4 points 9 months ago (1 children)

While one is not really allowed to ride on the footpaths, I often do. But pedestrians have the right of way, so if you do come across one, then go around them by going on the grass or jumping off the pavement. Just be careful when you get back onto the path once you're past them. If you don't know how, your front wheel can get caught between the grass and concrete path, and that's when you'll get to test those gloves.

On shared paths, I give way to pedestrians too, but those paths are generally wider which makes it easier.

[–] eagleeyedtiger 2 points 9 months ago* (last edited 9 months ago) (1 children)

Thanks for the tips. I've always wondered about it as from what I've noticed some people seem to always ride on footpaths and some don't and I just wasn't sure. I saw someone riding a moped along the footpath yesterday!

[–] ColonialSpore 3 points 9 months ago

Yeah, that's just rude!