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Belfast by bike
how to explore belfast by bike a guide for bike lovers and beginners how to cycle save around this city.
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Belfast by bike
how to explore belfast by bike
a guide for bike lovers and beginners how to cycle save around this city.
This brochure will help you to find out why Belfast is a perfect city to cycle and what makes riding a bike so fulfilling.
work or relax when you ride back home, or simply clear your mind.
Read what you need to know about which bike you should chooFeel the fresh air, the wind in se and how you cycle around the your face, the street underneath your city safe. Additionally we give sobike. Feel the nature and find out me advice on how to make your what it means to get more connecrides the most enjoybale ones. ted to your environment by riding Say ÂťBIKE ME!ÂŤ get on your a bike. Enjoy getting around much bike and explore Belfast. Enjoy! faster in peak times. Find your own way, explore the city at your own pace and stop and go as you please. Come alive during your bike ride to
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step #01
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BIKE Belfast Is Belfast a good city to cycle? Yes, it is! Why?
Belfast
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by bike
step #02
BIKE with love
I think one of the best things about riding a bike is your connection to nature. You feel the weather around you, the wind, the sun, the rain. page 12
step #03
BIKE yourself
What do you need to know to get started? Which bike do you need? Find the right bike for you, for everyday. page 22
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step #04
BIKE shop
Looking for a bike shop? Here we got you some addresses from shops in Belfast. page 28
step #05
BIKE safe
To cycle safe in the city, you have to know how the traffic works, where you can cycle and – this is essential and a matter of social responsibility – how to behave safe. page 30
step #06
BIKE route
Don’t get lost! Our map will help you to find your way through the city. Enjoy! page 38
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BIKE Belfast step #01
Is Belfast a good city to cycle? Yes, it is!
Belfast may not seem to be a perfect city to cycle. Many people say that the streets are not safe, the car drivers are rude and treat cyclists as they don’t have any rights to be on the streets. But this is just one side of the story. I made some other experiences. Is Belfast a good city to cycle? Yes, it is! Why? The size. Belfast has the perfect size to go everywhere you want in a short period of time. It is easy and fast to get into the city centre by bike, many people take there bike to go to the shops or to go out for 8
lunch. Why do they do this? Because it would take you ages to go by car. What leads us to point number 2: The traffic. The city centre is exactly what it is called: The centre of the city. So in the mornings everybody wants to get in. In the evenings everybody wants to get out. Streets are cloaked up with annoyed drivers and even busses if they eventually show up take a long time to get you from A to B.
There are public transportation issues in Belfast, which the government promises to resolve. Well, don’t
wait for it. Just be faster and smarter and use your bike to get around. The streets. But where is your place on the streets? you will always find a place to cycle. If there are some shared-use paths you can use them,you might have to watch out and go slow, because often these are crowded. You can use the car lanes or better you can use the bike lanes (yes, there are some) or bus lanes which offer you plenty of space.
the every-morining traffic jam. Of course you have to be careful on the streets and you have to watch out. But if you do so, you will be fine. The drivers are more friendly than you might think. For me, the best way to get around in Befast is by bike. It is your chance to be free, experience nature first hand, safe time and money all at the same time. That’s it! Simple as a bike ride.
TIP: The government has made it possible for people in Northern Ireland to purchase bicycles TAX-FREE. In many cases this means people can save up to 50% on the cost of their bike as part of the Department for Transport’s »Cycle to Work Scheme «. More information at www.cycleni.com
In the mornings you can use them easily to get ahead off the cars, which are trapped in 9
»I’ve seen neighborhoods that I would have never driven though because I'm riding my bike.You see a lot more, and you get the flow of a city a lot more.« _STONE GOSSARD
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This Victorian city, steeped in culture and industrial heritage, is just waiting to be discovered by bike. Also, the city’s many parks and green spaces, such as Ormeau Park provide traffic-free, family-friendly bike rides. Belfast also boasts two mainly traffic-free routes stretching into County Antrim and County Down. The Comber Greenway follows the trail of a disused railway line as far as the edge of Strangford Lough and the Lagan and Lough Cycle Way passes along the River Lagan and Belfast Lough, right into the heart of the city.
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BIKE with love step #02
I think one of the best things about riding a bike is your connection to nature. You feel the weather around you, the wind, the sun, the rain.
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Connection. Why do people all over the world love cycling? Why is it such a pleasant experience? I think one of the best things about riding a bike is your connection to nature. You are outside, you feel the weather around you, the wind, the sun, the rain.
Experience. Feel the cold air and how your body starts to work, to get warm inside. See what’s going on in your town, on the streets. Meet people. Stop to talk. Go ahead. Faster. Slower. Up the hill, down the hill. Feel the street. Breath. Clear your mind, think, relax.
Control. You control your bike, it is up to you to choose the pace that suits you. Do you want to relax, to take it easy and have a slow viewing trough the streets or do you want to exercise, to feel your muscles and your bike and to get really fast, feel the air waving around you.
Efficiency. To go by bike will safe you money and time. You will find your way across the city easily, you will be faster than the people using cars or busses. You can stop wherever you want and find a place to park your bike. Feel the freedom, what it is like to do what you
»It’s cheap, healthy and the best thing is: you can go where cars can not!«
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want, when you want it. You don’t have to wait, if you want to go: go! Some people like cycling because it is a great way to exercise. It will help you to stay healthy. You will feel better because of the extra fresh air and the wee bit of extra work out every day. It’s not a big deal, try it: just feel fresh, awake, healthy.
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The main thing I’m into is going about on a bike, taking random routes; I’m really into the idea of making up journeys, and just seeing where they take you, because they always end up taking you someplace freaky. _TOM JENKINSON
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»I just love it! It’s my nature. It’s a good exercise and it clears my head.« _SUSAN MORRISON
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»Life is like riding a bicycle. In order to keep your balance you must keep moving« _ALBERT EINSTEIN
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Perfect for your daily trip from home to office. Regardless of the weather outside, whether it is snowing, raining or mid-summer warm, riding safe and in style is guaranteed Photo: Bjรถrn Becker 20
Björn Becker, Industrial Designer and bike lover, talks about cycling. His passion is to restore old bikes. His last project was this 28“ commuter. Frame and wheelset were made in 1963, the bike was redesigned in 2012.
»I really love my bike. Because it takes me everywhere: to exciting places, to my friends and to places I like. It takes me home if I am somewhere I don’t want to be any more. I love my bike because it is homemade, I reassembled it by myself and therefore it takes me from place to place, I know every screw and I know which parts need some extra care. In some ways an old bike is like an old car, it is a piece of craftsmanship and you treat it with lots of love. In the end (hopefully) you will be very proud of what you have built with your own hands.
You can adjust every piece, every little detail just as you want, it is in some kind similar to good fitting glasses or clothes which suits you very well.
that well. I think that makes it even more charming and adorable! Riding a bike is fun because it is such an easy way to go round. Nevertheless it can be very exhausting and wasting. When I think of »cycling« I think of warm air in summer and the wind around you. Although it is an enjoyable experience in every season. For example to drive through the park in winter when the snow has fallen is very beautiful, too. When you ride a bike you get stronger every day, and you lose a bit of weakness every day. Thats very important nowadays.«
If you ride an really old bike, its more like using a tiny timemachine for half an hour. Especially if something isn’t working
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BIKE yourself step #03
What do you need to know to get started? Which bike do you need? Find the right bike for you, for everyday.
Your bike should complement your lifestyle. So, before you buy, think about when you want to use your bike and where you want it to take you. Choose the type of bike which reflects the majority of journeys you intend to make. Remember, as with most things, you get what you pay for, and sometimes bikes come with lots of extra features that you might not need. Road bikes are lightweight with skinny tyres. Most have drop handlebars and they’re designed to be aerodynamic and speedy. Racing bikes are lightweight and fast. Touring bikes are sturdier versions of racing 22
bikes suitable for long distance rides with panniers to carry your luggage. Mountain bikes have sturdy frames, knobbly tyres and highly effective brakes. They often have suspension and a wide selection of lower gears, perfect for all types of terrain. With slick tyres they are also comfortable for city riding. Hybrid bikes are a cross between the speed of a road bike and the strength and gearing of a mountain bike. They are lightweight but sturdy with smooth tyres and an upright riding position suitable for a wide variety of terrain. A good everyday option.
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Folding Bikes are ideal for people who commute on public transport but use their bikes at either end of their trip. These bikes fold down compactly, and have smaller wheels and fewer gears. Electrically assisted bikes are great if you need extra help to get up hills, or have a longer daily commute. Choose a bike that is electrically assisted, where the power kicks in when you pedal, helping you up the hill rather than completely taking over.
Bicycles meant for everyday transportation should not require us to change the way we dress or lead our lives in order to ride them. Ultimately, an effective transportation bike is one that not only gets the job done, but allows the cyclist to be themselves while feeling comfortable and safe. Our notions of personal comfort and aesthetics differ, and so will our bicycle preferences. What‘s important is to find what works for you. What is your daily life like? What do you wear? Do you carry a large bag for work? How often will you use your bike?
Step-through Frame A step-through frame bicycle makes it easy for women to cycle in skirts and dresses. It also allows for easy mounting and dismounting of the bicycle. No need to swing your leg, no need to lean the bicycle, no need to worry about losing your balance in traffic. Just step through. Quality Steel Construction In general, steel frames are sturdier and make for a smoother ride than frames made of other materials. Especially if you live in an area with very bumpy roads or cobblestones, a steel bicycle will feel better to ride. Enclosed Chain When the chain is encased in a protective cover, the bottoms of your trousers are safe from getting caught in the chain or getting ruined by oil stains. The chaincase also keeps your bicycle chain free from grime. Lights See and be seen! When cycling in the dark, you are required by law to have a white light on the front and a red light on the rear. These can clip onto your bike, backpack or your clothes. Lights and reflectors are absolutely necessary when it is dark. It’s for your safety.
(activated by pedaling backwards) and front drum brake. Hub brakes (inside the hub) are a better choice than caliper brakes (on the wheel rim), because the former are not effected by rain or snow. Bell A loud bell lets you warn pedestrians and other cyclists when you are about to pass them, and can alert a car to your presence. Leather Saddle With a leather saddle, your »soft tissue« (buttocks and the other bits) will hurt less at the end of the day. A padded vinyl saddle may feel better in the store, but I guarantee that won’t be the case after a couple of miles! Colour, Aesthetics Some think it is silly to be overly concerned with a bicycle’s colour or looks, but if you are going to ride your bicycle every day, it is only natural to get one that you absolutely love. Ride and enjoy!
The bicycle you ride for transportation must accommodate all Racks your needs in order to be useful to Installing a rack on a bicycle you. Following are the features worth transforms it into a transport veconsidering if you are new to cycling: hicle, making it possible to attach a variety of baskets, saddle bags Upright Sitting Position and panniers - which can be used Bicycles are made with different to carry handbags, books, groframe geometries and handlebar ceries, art supplies, and whateset-ups. When riding for transporver else your heart may desire. tation maybe you prefer to sit upright rather than hunched over. The upright sitting position is more comfortable, enables the rider to observe their surroundings, and makes the rider visible to traffic.
Brakes Front and rear brakes are essential for comfortable, stress-free cycling. My personal preference is a combination of coaster brake 25
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BIKE shop step #04
Looking for a bike shop? Here we got you some addresses from shops in Belfast.
Bike Dock Bikedock was established in 1994 from an Âťidyllic dreamÂŤ. The dream was to live in a bicycle happy environment. Living in Belfast, Northern Ireland, Derek and Barbara Armstrong who founded the business, felt, that with some courage of conviction and a lot of hard work, they could contribute, if only in a small measure, to the dramatic transformation required from virtually no Cycling Culture at all, to one that resembles something that is moving towards a better lifestyle for all.
Bike Dock, 79-85 Ravenhill Rd Belfast, 028 9073 0600 www.bikedock.com 28
James McGarvey Bicycles The oldest bicycle shop in Belfast est 1895. They stock bicycles for all ages and sizes. Good selection of regulation approved cycle helmets. James McGarvey Bicycles provide a full after sales service.They are always glad to give expert advice.
James McGarvey Bicycles 16 King Street, Beside Castle Court Belfast, Co. Antrim, 02890 328 848 www.mcgarveycycles.com Slane Cycles 171 Andersonstown Road Belfast, 028 9060 0040 www.slanecycles.com
Kinning Cycles Belfast Brian Kinning has a pure love for cycling and bikes. He specialized in his early years as a time trialist. With many years experience with bikes, Brian could not find any job too big or small.
Kinning Cycles Belfast 76 Castlereagh Road Belfast, County Antrim 028 9058 9589 www.kinningcycles.com Mc Convey Cycles 183 Ormeau Road Belfast, Antrim 028 9033 0322 www.mcconveycycles.com
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BIKE safe step #05
To cycle safe in the city, you have to know how the traffic works, where you can cycle and – this is essential and a matter of social responsibility – how to behave safe.
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don’t lose it, lock it! Invest in a strong lock. Some locks are stronger than others and price influences their quality. D-locks are sturdy, and cable locks are useful to secure any parts of the bike which are quick release such as the saddle or front wheel. Think: location, location, location. Where you lock your bike is critical. Leave it on a well lit and busy street so any potential thieves are conspicuous.
But what does it mean, to behave safe on a bicycle? Here are some points you should think of: Riding a bicycle that is functional and road-ready. Taking reasonable steps to ensure one’s bicycle will not fail on the road. This includes making certain that the wheels are secured and that the brakes, lights, and other crucial components are functional. Riding a bike with known mechanical problems, insufficient braking capacity, or any unusual features that make it intentionally difficult to operate, can have disastrous consequences in traffic. Being in possession of basic bike handling skills. This includes being able to start and stop without faltering, to maintain a line of travel without weaving, to reduce
speed when appropriate, and to safely maneuver around obstacles. It helps to ride the type of bike one is comfortable with and in a way they are comfortable with, depending on skill level and personal preference. Those who do not yet possess adequate handling skills should practice on trails and quiet side streets before mixing with traffic. Adhering to traffic laws. Knowing and following local traffic laws, as they pertain to bicyclists. This includes respecting lane directionality, street lights, stop signs and right of way, signaling turns and intentions to merge, and in general behaving predictably. Knowing safety maneuvers Awareness of various crucial safety maneuvers and the ability 33
to execute them. For instance: not positioning oneself in the blind spot of a car that could turn into one’s line of travel, not cycling in the door zone of parked cars, and not passing other cyclists on the right. Find your way through the city: Plan your routes around quiet streets and interesting places - the whole road network is open to you and there are lots of cycle paths and traffic-free routes out there. Public bridleways can be used by walkers, cyclists and horse riders. By law, those on two wheels should give way to other users. Remember the surfaces can be variable and not always suitable for all bikes.
Shared-use paths are free of motor traffic and designated for use by walkers, cyclists and sometimes horse riders. These paths generally have good surfaces. Advanced stop lines for cyclists give you a visible area to wait, where you are segregated from other traffic. At the front of the queue, you can be seen, reducing the chance of a conflict as vehicles turn. You must stay behind the front stop line and must proceed when the lights are green. Motorists must stay behind the first stop line and not obstruct the forward areas. It is illegal to cycle on a pavement – use roads or cycle paths.
Look all around before moving off. Look behind and if safe, signal clearly before changing direction. 34
TIPS FOR CYCLISTS ON SHARED-USE PATHS
Don’t go too fast it can intimidate others; Use your bell to let others know you are approaching, but don’t assume they can hear or see you; Give way to others and always be prepared to slow down and stop if necessary; Keep left or on your side of any dividing line; Be careful at junctions, bends or entrances.
TIPS FOR CYCLISTS ON ROADS
Ride in a position where you can see and be seen; Make eye contact with other road users, especially at junctions, then you know they’ve seen you; Follow the Highway Code – don’t jump red lights and don’t cycle on the pavement unless it’s a designated cycle path; Consider wearing a helmet and bright or reflective clothing, especially in towns, at night and in bad weather; In wet weather watch your speed as surfaces may be slippery and it will take you longer to stop.
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BIKE route step #06
Don’t get lost! Our map will help you to find your way through the city. Enjoy!
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Your map is missing? Please go to
ŠAnja Dannemann, 2012
www.bike-me.co.uk
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www.bike-me.co.uk
This brochure will help you to find out why Belfast is a perfect city to cycle and what makes riding a bike so fulfilling. Say ÂťBIKE ME!ÂŤ and get on your bike to explore the city in your own style!
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me
Belfast by bike