The Crazybird Jumper Tested | And Why Cyclists Do What They Do | A Motorists Guide
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- čas přidán 21. 10. 2023
- While testing my new bike that I've been sent from crazybird, I decided to try and educate some drivers on why cyclists do what they do.
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Wear gloves, not because they are warm of comfy or anything but because if you have a crash you will be thankful to still have skin on your hands afterwards.
I wear my short cuff carbon fibre armoured summer motorbike gloves when I ride because I know the instinct is to put your hands out when you fall and I like my hands with skin
I commute on my bike if it's not raining. If your riding in the dark I would recommend bright gloves as although drivers can see your lights they can't see your hand signals with black gloves. 👍
@@chrisnielsen9885 I totally agree, hands with skin are just better
@@MikeWalls7829 I was riding my motorbike on the main highway one winter here in NZ, it was raining and just above freezing temp and I was thinking how wonderful my heated grips and thick winter gloves were, when I got passed by a Harley rider with no gloves at all lol
Dress for the slide, not the ride.
As a cyclist I did used to feel like e-bikes were a little bit like 'cheating'. But my Wife bought a proper sit-up ladies bike a few years back and barely used it because of the effort it took and it got relegated to the bike shed. My Mother-in-Law bought an e-bike a couple of years ago and has stopped using it, so she gave it to my Wife and she now uses it for all sorts of local trips. Simply because she doesn't feel self-conscious about being out of breath when she is confronted by a modest hill and she doesn't arrive all sweaty and flustered. It makes cycling a non-event instead of a gruelling workout.
Counterpoint: if you find hills to be a "gruelling workout", then that's probably a sign that you don't have enough low gears on the bike. The idea is that you should be able to proceed comfortably, with the same pedal pressure and cadence as you would on the level, just more slowly. If you find yourself constantly dropping into the lowest gear and still struggling, then something is wrong.
A lot of "city" bikes and some of the cheaper models of other types have their lowest gear somewhere around 38-40", which is a difficult gear for all but the gentlest of hills, especially if loaded with shopping. I did the C2C route many years ago, on a cheap 10-speed bike fitting that description, and that was painful with a lot of walking. A low gear of 30" is already a big improvement here, and it's not difficult to find reasonably inexpensive bikes with 25" gears if you know what to look for. I customised my 24-speed hybrid with a 21.5" granny gear, since I sometimes haul a cargo trailer with it; I don't spend much time in the lowest gears, but they mean I almost never have to get off and push just because of a hill. You don't need a large *number* of gears, so long as they cover the right *range*.
It's also worth noting that a lot of "road sport" bikes also have an absurdly high bottom gear, because they're designed for athletes (or aspiring athletes) with a focus on speed rather than practicality. You can usually recognise these bikes by drop handlebars, two gears at the front and up to a dozen at the back, and no mudguards or luggage facilities. They might look sleek, but they have no place in the city.
To calculate the lowest gear you have on this basis, multiply the tyre size (typically 24" for a city bike or 28" for a hybrid) by the ratio of the smallest front gear to the largest rear gear. If you have a geared hub, you'll also need to look up its lowest internal gear ratio and multiply by that; for a 3-speed this will usually be either ¾ (for the many Sturmey-Archer AW clones) or 11/15 (for the Shimano Nexus 3). It's very common to find a 3-speed hub like this set up with a 3:1 or 5:2 ratio on the chain, which is probably too steep; a 2:1 or 3:2 ratio is better, depending on the wheel size. The tradeoff is that the high gear will be slower, but that's less important. Note also that some hubs have their lowest internal gear at exactly 1:1, including some of the newer Sturmey-Archer models, and that should probably be matched with a 1:1 or lower ratio on the chain.
@@Kromaatikse Dude there's hills around where I live that no amount of low gears will allow you to go up them without getting seriously out of breath!
@Kromaatikse I find cycling on a flat, smooth road a gruelling workout due to failing joints. Add in any resistance of a hill into the equation and chances are I will be taking up plenty of NHS resources due to the inability to move. Hence why I haven’t ridden a bike for many years and the availability of e-bikes opens up cycling again to those of us that, until recently, have been unable to
A lot of issues aren’t just around cardio fitness, being “out of breath” can be due to pain as well 👍
Studies show that any exercise is considerably better than none, and she is certainly getting it on an ebike in assist mode. Can lower the assistance as she gets fitter. And good point, can control the exercise pace so never get sweaty.
Who cares what people think. Stuff thinking it's cheating. If you're using it, you're still getting outside and some exercise. Plus less cars on the road also.
The segregated lane between pavement and parked cars doesn't seem very safe to me. Passengers won't be used to things passing them on the left of their vehicle and for vehicles emerging or turning in to side streets have their view obstructed by the parked cars which are further into the road.
They aren't, for the very reasons you state.
Enjoyed this video a lot. I recently did one similar for my channel, where I discussed how I ride. But you, Ashley, have a bigger audience and your instructor experience is super-credibility enhancing. I think teaching drivers from the saddle of a bike is a great idea. However, given the attitude of a significant minority of drivers, few will have the patience to sit through 45 minutes of sound advice, so may I suggest you do a series of these, but make them short and sharp, perhaps focusing on different aspects of riding (door-width, primary and secondary positioning, navigating junctions, etc. You know what I mean). You might just hold the attention of drivers a bit longer. But regardless, love your work. 👍🏻
What a great idea! I think education is the way to address the terrible attitude towards cyclists. A lot of the perceived bad behaviour is easily explained if people are interested.
As a commuter cyclist during the rush hours, glad you do this. As an IAM Roadsmart member, the organisation did try to add cyclists in the mix a few years ago, and personally I thought this was a great idea. Those that do "multimodal" transport like Ashley can make our roads safer by breaking down that usual " Us versus Them" mentality. Unfortunately due to opinions, and in my view "arrogance" of many members, the IAM Roadsmart dropped cycling from their remit....Great job Ashley!!👍👍🙂🚗🏎️🚴🚚🚛
I got my road sense doing 30-40mph on a twelve speed bicycle building up speed behind buses pulling away from bus stops
I did the IAM RoadSmart Fast Track course (driving) and as brilliant as it was overall, it did bug me a little that they regarded cyclists as somewhat of an obstacle to overcome, all be it in a safe as possible manner. At one point my instructor, who again was brilliant on the whole and DID NOT know I was a keen cyclist actually made an off the cuff remark about cyclists all having cameras these days and reporting drivers "out of spite" which rubbed me up the wrong way, I let it go at the time but wish I'd have said something now.
@@chris1275cc Shades of Jeremy Vine and Cycling Mikey...
@@chris1275cc Would be interesting to know what he thinks of drivers having dashcams, and if he views those as for personal protection and fraud prevention. Cyclists don't get the same benefit of the doubt: A cyclist with a camera is just looking to cause trouble for law breaking motorists...
@@RCEASTMIDLANDS To be fair to the guy although I still wish I would have said something at the time, it felt more like a poor choice of words and that's really what I had issues with. Some people (maybe even most) will only do bad things when they think they are likely to get away with it, and letting those people know it's not as likely as it used to be may not be such a bad thing. It certainly did not reflect his attitude to cyclists in general.
Your comment at 7:03 about some cyclists not looking to move around parked vehicles, there are some that do not look when merging off a cycle path onto a road as well. While it isn’t great cycling, drivers need to be fully aware and anticipate this happening.
A few seconds just holding back to keep everyone safe is all it takes
Merge in turn applies to pushbikes as well! Though assuming other vehicle operators will allow you to proceed first is dangerous - The Highway Code says to always look all around before moving out.
Always a pleasure to watch Ashley , if we all lookout for each other on the road it just makes it that much safer and doesn’t take anymore time in reality
Great VT Ash. Plenty of info for both cyclists and motorists. One thing though I was surprised you didn’t highlight was the infra from 37.14
The cycle lane forces you up the nearside of parked vehicles. There absolutely nowhere to bail out if a passenger exits the vehicle unless you can bunnyhop and have incredibly good reflexes. Even dropping your speed to a crawl wouldn’t help. If a door opened up on you while doing 15mph plus you would have been toast on that section. Personally I would have taken to the road at that stretch. This is a perfect example as to why many who cycle regularly do not use infrastructure.
Drivers should be aware that they also have responsibility to ensure that their passengers exit the vehicle safely and in the worst case scenario it is them facing a careless driving charge.
I love that each mode of transport be it lorry, bicycle, car and motorbike displays unique challenges of each and requires different behaviour approaches. Love the versatility on your channel.
32:43 that takes some stones to pull a close pass right next to a police car! Glad it was in the minority of the passes made on you during your ride but still, shows there's still a fundamental misunderstanding and I'm glad you're highlighting it and putting the education out there 👍
Slowed the vid down it was Delta Taxis Bootle that close passed Ashley , a professional driver not !
That close pass was a disgrace. Am I surprised the police didn't U turn and go and have a word with the driver? Not really. They are either too busy or just can't be bothered anymore and so the cycle (excuse the pun) or ever decreasing respect for doing the right thing and standards gets worse.
@@cactusbase3088I’ve had people close pass me with a marked car behind and nothing done. I’ve also been close passed by marked cars and nothing done when reported.
One thing I'd say, for all cyclist like myself who also drive, have your bike light on every time you ride, both front and rear flashing, not just solid light, flashing light, this helps massively for visibility for other road users to spot you quickly and early. I have had a collision with scooters and spotted some late because their solod lights where mistaken for a car further away, or even hidden in busy traffic headlights. Stay safe.
I disagree. Flashing lights, especially this penchant for ultra bright lights (solid included) are as dangerous as a full size main beam unit. It's all about how they're adjusted maybe?
I always have a solid light on my backpack, i tilt the front one down so I can see potholes and a second one pointing forwards to the left away from traffic a little. I use them in the day too. And even then, you get some driver who still feels the need to come inches from the bike, swerve infront and slam their breaks on. Or stop with their wheel kissing the path so you cant filter past them. And if somehow you do, expect them to try and knock you off further up the road after the lights. For some reason, when most drivers see a cyclist, they get tunnel vision. "Must overtake. Must ensure the cyclist never passes again." As a driver too, I try to hold back and give them a car space when I overtake, and make sure if a car suddenly pulls out, they got room to swerve away too.
@@androidcaller7902 there is a science behind it, an experiment was done to see how quickly you can be spotted from afar if you have your lights on flashing or solid. Even my personal experience correlate with it. And the conclusion of that experiment is you get seen easier with lights flashing than solid. Yes, if you're an experienced cyclist, you should know the angle of your lights is important even the type of light is, some lights you can't see from the side. I'm not arguing against solid light, but I'm arguing that flashing is better for being spotted. There is a reason why emergency vehicles have flashing lights rather than solid.
Just a note: German regulations *prohibit* flashing cycle lights, and it's virtually impossible to buy any that do if you live there. Then again, that's a country which has cycle paths and shared-use paths (both clear of motor traffic) virtually everywhere in cities. Cycling "on the pavement" is not only normal there, it's actively encouraged.
Good comment. I do this too, and in all weathers. Flashing lights get the attention of all but a handful of drivers and make your road positioning adjustments all the more visible.
As a hybrid comuter ebike, it will be fine for mild off road, by which i mean bridal path, country lanes and byways. forget it for anything more technical or steep.
The throttle cutoff speed should be programmable separate to the pedal assist max speed...
The kit I bought to upgrade my mountain bike was the same deal - suposed to be fully legal, but the throttle wasn't programmed right.
Programming manuals for most ebike controllers are fairly easy to find online, then it's just a matter of interpreting the chinglish content.
I love the fact that you turned what could've been a simple review of the bike into a learning video for all parties involved. I have to say that I agree with all the points you've talked about 'till this point in the video and find myself abiding by them, across the pond, all of the time.
Ps: I couldn't send in my footage from last week, but I will hopefully have it ready by tomorrow; it has some more than questionable overtakes.
Interesting video Ash - catching up !
A lot of very useful points that need continual mentioning.
I'm glad you mentioned the "optional" "throttle" ! The maker advertises the Crazy E-Bird Jumper as having full throttle control up to 25kph, not just E-Assist, without mentioning that that then is no longer a Pedal Cycle, but requires (aiui) the full moped package.
What you are saying about position & obstacle avoidance is what they teach you for motorbike riding as well
Top tip for fitting lights/cameras/whatever to your bars... a strip of old inner tube underneath the clamp stops things slipping.
Re road bikes not handling manhole covers/pot holes etc...I guess they require a more active technique but as long as you don't treat the saddle as a seat it's fine. Knees/legs as suspension and relax your muscles/grip to 'glide' the bumps, maybe the occasional bunny hop. For me at least it helps keep me alive to potential hazards and planning the road ahead.
Heavier bikes tend to clunk into potholes and obscuring the road surface with suspension I think might lead to complacency Eg not considering the greasiness of a road if it's just rained after a long dry spell or ploughing into a pot hole where the depth is obscured by a puddle.
As for your jolt on when the power kicks in, usually with E-bikes they have hidden settings to adjust this to your preferance.
Ashley, i challenge you to ride/ drive through london and access the differences in things that you talk about. Personally for work i drive around central london quite alot and i feel you'd be shocked at the state of driving/riding in the area
I've written through central London recently with Travis and Sigrid and I actually found the roads not to be a problem. If you're expecting a seamless journey, you won't get it, but you need to be always ready to fix other people's issues.
You’ve written through? With a celebrity cat guy? And it’s all good 🤯
Enjoyed the video, but I don't know how hi-viz your back pack is I couldn't see it, if it isn't I wouldn't feel comfortable in that top you have on I always wear something in a bright colour.
Front light - Good
No back light - Bad. As you said big oversight of bike manufacturer to miss that off!
As a non cyclist I found this a very engaging and informative video. Top draw. Again
3:45 it takes a while for new brake pads to bed in. You should do a few hard stops from speed to get the best out of a new set.
Also, new bike tyres can be slippery as they can have the remnants of the mould release compound on the surface, so need to take it easy cornering etc for a good few miles.
Modern pads do not require bedding in.
Good video. Nice to see the motorists in Liverpool are considerate overall.
Watching this now, rather fittingly whilst doing a 60min stationary bike workout at home. So far 22 kms in 40 mins. In primary position!
You need bar end mirrors. To get away faster put the PAS up to 5 and then dial it back once you're moving. As for brakes, you can easily upgrade to 4-piston XOD hydraulics. Enjoyed this video. Never heard of the brand but looks good.
Brakes usually get better after some use. I've found using disc cleaner helps too.
Nice looking bike. Good weather for it in the video
Like you Ash, I'm not a fan of gloves but they do have their uses. In crashes they give some protection for you hands from road rash, the ones with gel padding can help with comfort and keeping your hands warm (although that's different for everyone, thicker is not always warmer).
There are some things i think cyclists should use like glasses, they help with keeping wind and dust out of your eyes and if sunglasses or photochromic lenses will help with bright sunlight.
I'm a big advocate of wearing a cycling cap under my helmet, the peak helps with direct sunlight like a sun visor in a car and helps keep some rain off your glasses/eyes.
Lights, seems self explanatory, but you'd be surprised how many do not use them or have very bad ones. Some think because they are wearing high viz, it's just as good (spoiler alert, it's not!), even the really expensive high viz is not as good a semi decent set of lights. On the other end of the spectrum, there are those who use super bright lights but not pointing down on the ground but up into oncoming traffics eyes. And with the increase of dual direction segregated cycle paths (that's a mouthful!) You get blinded by the oncoming cyclist.
Did the red car at 18:26 leave space in front of them in case you wanted to turn right? If so, some nice considerate driving and something I try and do which is to leave space for those that can filter to the front, but also leaves some wiggle room if you need to move for emergency services
And having reached 24:17 I just heard you say wiggle room as well 🤣
My hydraulic disc brakes on my new road bike were crap until worn in slightly. I wonder if changing the pad type would help?
I was just taking in the view of different parts of Liverpool in real time , so for pure entertainment, I approve of this video 🙂
That sounds like the end line for a US Presidential tv ad campaign. "My name is Thomas Elliott and I approve this message". 😀
@@ibs5080 and I approve of this reply 👍🙂
Not sure the source nor reasons for the comments regarding gloves, but as someone who's wiped out on a bike straight onto my hands - no breakages thankfully but not having skin and then scabs on both palms for weeks had a significant impact and pain in my life for about a month...never not worn gloves out on a bike since.
Thanks for the recommendation of gloves. For me, gloves or mitts are the most important item to wear for safety. Yes, even above h*lmets. Very few cycle accidents involve head impacts, but almost all involve injury to the hands.
Yes, gloves essential. You don't want to hit the deck with arms outstretched with your bare hands taking the impact. Makes me wince thinking about the pain and post-accident discomfort. Fingerless ones for the summer.
@user-un7eu8ud8l Plus I forgot to mention that cold hands are less smooth in their reactions.
Regarding the gloves thing, I wear gel-palmed gloves because my hands hurt and go numb on my flatbar.
I have never considered that a safety item. My flimsy fingerless gloves aren't saving my hands at 25-30 mph downhill -- you'd need motorcycle gloves for that. It might reduce the damage a little, but don't expect miracles.
I'd love it if you could cover cycling on roundabouts in more detail. The options in regards to chosing lanes cyclists have.
I'd say that close pass was down to not caring. It looked like it was a Taxi. They seem to have their own rules
I'm glad to see you wearing hand protection, but - black gloves? Fine if you ONLY ride in bright sunlight, but I'd be tempted to put patches of day-glow and reflective on the backs, so your hand signals can be clearly seen in indifferent light conditions - such as a murky day, or under shady patches in otherwise bright light where black disappears into the background..
Really good video with lots of interesting points about how cyclists can, and should, communicate with motorists.
A similar video should be done, or a reminder video, on how motorists can communicate better with cyclists while on the road as well. Like when waiting at traffic lights knowing you are turning left, signal while waiting rather than waiting until you start moving. Or when waiting to emerge from a junction and a cyclist is coming trying to make eye contact with them and give a little thumbs up and hand acknowledgment so they know you have seen them. It can help others as well not just cyclists
I am aware a lot of this gets covered in quite a few of your videos already, especially looking for the hidden signals but using the road should be like going out with a groups of friends…communicate where you want to go, acknowledge each other and don’t fall out with anyone
My gravel bike has sram force 1 cx hyro brakes. Gives good confidence/safety having good brakes. Can modulate them well too.
Fitting hydraulic brakes to an E bike can be a little more tricky.
@@ashley_neal how can it be more tricky?
@@dylillama5203 They have the added complication of switches in the leavers to cut the motor when pulled.
39:15 - PN72 YJV (PN72YJV) that was a funny looking bicycle in the cycle lane and one of the reasons people hate using cycle lanes!
You have a bafang motor so you can reprogram the throttle to comply with the 6kmh rule.
42:30 - that's one of my least favourite roads in Liverpool. It's 30mph but everyone just does 40 down there.
@11:44 - a bit of a tight squeeze to get to the ASL, an in my experience that just p's off the motards.
Ashley, if you could have 30Mph ebike on a normal driving license, would you have one or would you choose an electric motorcycle instead?
A 30 mph e-bike would be an electric moped (regardless if it has pedals or not). Even with a car licence (issued after 1-2-2001) you'd need to pass CBT then follow the same rules as any other moped. If it was issued before that, you DO have the rights to also ride mopeds, so you can have such an e-bike, subject to following moped rules (registration, tax, insurance, helmet, etc.)
For an electric motorcycle, you'd need to pass the motorcycle test, but could obviously have a faster one.
I can't speak to what Ashley's preference would be though.
Me and my missus have one 1.0ltr petrol engine car. I also get a lift to/ from work. And car share.
Its not me and and my family who are effecting the environment. Its people who have 3/4 cars per 1 household.
Would it struggle towing a small child in a baby cart thingy? I'm a reasonably fit bloke so it's mainly up hills.
Yeah you've reviewed it
Pads on a new bike likely need to bed in. Have you tried giving it lots of sharp stop closely after each other (in a safe pace of course)? Could even do a vid about it on your cycling channel, it may help some improve their brakes and thus safety.
I think you might be right but I understand the way to 'bed' them in is to 'drag' the brakes without coming to a stop. (???) I made the mistake of not doing this on a new bike once and was plagued with squealing/juddery discs.
@@alextw1488 Can do either as long as get some temp into them. Must say dragging them does perhaps seem to bed them in quicker. Focus on one brake at a time of course.
The one thing I really like about eBikes is that when my ankles started to fail and I could barely walk I was still able to go cycling, people don't realise that they are excellent disability aids :)
How is that eBike with the assist OFF? and how is it on FULL assist for battery life?
A throttle that goes all the way up to 15.5 mph is illegal unless it's got grandfather rights (which it doesn't) or It's only throttling up to 6mph without pedalling but can assist up to full speed when pedalling (which may be the case) or it's type approved (which it doesn't appear to be and they shouldn't have sold you the throttle in the UK is it's none of the above).
Glove brand? Winter or summer gloves? Any good?✌✌
I try not to wear dark colours while cycling, I also wear a hi-vis vest.
What are views in bin trucks parking in cycle lanes to do their collections?
It's not ideal, but sometimes there's no other option. In Amsterdam, they don't have bin lorry collections like we do in the UK. There are underground bins dotted about the place and you can take your rubbish there at any time. Those bins are then emptied by lorry, but the road layout is designed so the lorry doesn't need to get anywhere near a cycle lane.
The cycle lane that has parked cars on one side and pavement on the other looks like such a hazard filled area. You said it’s not used much, I can see why!
Nice video
am 67 disabled had polio when l was a young in my left leg my radpower ebike was the best thing l have ever bought all so been a driver for over 40 years
It's nice to hear you make use of your E bike 👍
Love the bicycle. I have a Honda ADV 150 only has 2k miles and 2 really close calls. I'm already trying to sell it 😢
What is the issue with the throttle? Excess speed? I looked into it a while back and as long as the motor is sub 250W and 14.6mph? Throttle usage without pedal assist was legal in the UK although not legal all over the EU. That was before we left the EU also.
Shame they don't have an electric scooter 30/40mph with insurance and special plates/insurance. Bikes like that are sold already and illegally in use.
With disc brakes, when new (or after a clean) you have the bed them in. So the first time using a new bike take it gently for the first 15-20 mins braking smoothly and the performance should feel better as you bed them in.
I don't think throttles should be allowed or at least limited to the first second or two to help push off when stopped. I see plenty of e-bile riders with their feet up as they don't have to peddle to go forward and bombing down cycle paths and even in parks and shared paths.
I think proper e-bikes are good and should be used by as many people as possible to help them on bikes. But unfortunately, there are too many illegally modded "e-bikes" which are essentially e-mopeds/e-motorbikes and can go significantly faster than 15.5Mph. People seem to want an increase to the limit to 20mph, which I'm not a fan of. I'm an okay cyclist, (bit tubby round the edges), it's not easy to go 20mph as people think it is, not for any length of time only in short bursts when the conditions allow. There are those who are fit and strong on a bike who can do it for a long time, but the vast majority of people cannot unless going downhill and even then don't as they are braking the whole way down. But the main reason the limit shouldn't go up, is the brakes. They are not good enough to stop a bike that weighs 15-20kg or more plus the riders weight at that speed well for a good length of time and let's face the average person is not going to do the maintenance on their bike that they need or take it for a service regularly.
Nice enjoy your time
love the video, love the channels, but why is this not on the just cycling channel?
Because it's telling drivers how to treat cyclists from a driver's perspective
I think this type of content has to be what cycle training should adopt.
With the formality of driving lessons.
But if you included cycling without power assistance too, it would be similar to lessons for manual and automatic transmissions.
I have to just add, it's not all about "fitness levels". I am quite fit, but with my physical problems I end up in excruciating pain when trying to ride a bike. Something to consider - we're not all the same I'm sad to say.
Same with me which is why I had to stop cycling. If we had better infrastructure here I would consider an e-bike to get back out there…unfortunately too many crazy drivers out there with poor infrastructure to warrant getting one at the moment.
I will stick with walking into town and driving further afield for now
11:46 Did your glove make contact with their side mirror
Thanks for the road bike mention, I'm mainly a road cyclists, i commute and I'm just about to start to learn to drive. You really have to look out for potholes and other road features. I live in a rural area and most people (drivers and cyclists) are fine but you have that 1% of people who make it bad for everyone. I always hate when a diver behind me at a set of lights revs right past me especially as i have to clip back in
How come you didn't make any squawking noises while on your crazy bird?
Give it a few more miles or perhaps that trip to Wales and the brakes will be squawking louder than any crazy bird
How are you able to record a front view of yourself cycling?
360 camera on an arm 👍
Hi,be safe,.me I have Accident on the street,I was going to work by push bike, 17 September Friday 2021, Hospital whipps cross, they said I hit the pillar,I been in coma 5 weeks
At 32:39, that pass was literally opposite a Police car. Jesus Christ, some people are too stupid to be allowed on the roads.
Bright colour gloves are better. I have some for every occasion 🖐
Fully agree that the "painted cycle gutter" and the cycle lane sandwiched between parked cars and a kerb are poor road design. The correct way to do this, widely practiced in Europe, is to move the cycle lane up onto the pavement, making the latter wider to match. Then it's clear of motor vehicles, is swept and otherwise maintained as part of the pavement, and the speed and mass differential between cycles and pedestrians is much less than it is between cycles and cars (and even more so, buses and HGVs), resulting in considerably less risk.
Also agree that lights front and rear are crucial to road safety, though they're a lot more important in twilight and night than during the day. In daylight, high-visibility clothing or other markings are possibly more helpful. I do leave my dynamo lights switched on full-time, in "Tagfahrlicht" (Day Running Lights) mode, just because it's the easiest thing to do; my rear light also has a brake-indicator feature, which senses reductions in the dynamo output frequency.
They should definitely be teaching cycling safety in schools.
They do in a large number! Modern cycle training is a lot more advanced than the old Cycle Proficiency Scheme, so it's well worth ensuring your kids' school has a certified instructor come in to provide the training.
Some really nice cycling good communication. Maybe everyone that learns to drive should go for a lesson on a bike especially people that domt cycle . Many aspects of cycling on the road aint that different to driving like observation anticipation of whats happening around and planning. Mamy of the skills can be transferred to driving. For example the parked cat in the cycle lane . First you are checking behind to see whats happening looking for a space to use in the cars. Letting the drivere behind know you want to join thier line. They once past back onto your lane and everybody goes about thier day. On a motorway catching traffic in lane 1 looking back in yiour mirrors for a safe gap. Signal to let people know then once past back to lane 1. All exactly the same thought process . The only difference is if you get it wrong your chamces of injury are higher so you can't get it wrong. E bikes allow people to ride with people that are of different fitness levels
Am i wrong in thinking if the throttle is a twist throttle like a motorbike then it is considered a motorbike and if it has the throttle you can push with your thumb then it isnt classed a motorbike ?
It's nothing to do with what you do to operate the throttle. If it's possible to ride the bike without pedalling, it's illegal.
Obviously not, or someone would use the loophole that would create to make an e-motorbike with all the power and capabilities of a motorbike but just without a twist grip throttle. Our lawmakers may be pretty stupid nowadays, but they aren't going to leave a hole that big in the legislation.
You can have any sort of throttle and it's not classed as a motorbike as long as you get it certified as a '250W Low Power Moped'.
8:17 - "that's not 1.5 meters but for me it's totally safe, totally fine"
This isn't the message you should be putting out Ashley. The driver could easily have given more space because there's nothing coming on the other side of the road. If we're telling drivers that it's fine to not give 1.5 meters and give whatever distance THEY think is okay then we're in trouble.
Manhole covers.. I just lift off the saddle & stand for a second or two.. full suspension or not 😎
Great video btw 😘
I would suggest a pair of knee pads as well ashley just in case of a fall or accident...fallen off a bicycle many times and the poor old knees tend to get it first.
That's very much a street bike Ash, I wouldn't trust it at Llandegla.
The road infrastructure nevermind the cycle infrastructure like ALOT IN BRITAIN
IS A JOKE
A piece of reflective tape in front and back of the helmet would be a nice touch, if you ride at night that is. 😜👍
The helmet has it's own lights 😜👍
@@ashley_neal Wow, I liked how compact and close to the head it is, but that's even cooler. Awesome! 🤘🔥
I’ve been cycling on Merseyside roads since the 80,s but would never ride through Walton Vale 👏👏👏
Would love to know what make that helmet is?….🎉
xnito.com
32:35 - BG18 AFN (BG18AFN) should not have close passed you and is supposed to be a Professional Taxi Driver for Delta Taxis Liverpool.
18:03 definitely should have been a bit more aware here mate but it did change really fast
I'd just like to say I wish every cyclist rode like you ,spot on great riding always checking n showing his intentions in advance
Totally agree. Wouldn't it also be great if all motorists drove like Ashley? We could cover it with all 'roadusers'.
Seems unlikely though. Some cyclists are children and some motorists are like the professional driver in the clip, so we have problems to overcome
I just people who get around using a car, would realise how fast they're actually moving, that's my only wish oh and LOOK 👁️👁️
11:40 I'm sure people will complain that you got too close to that car, HOWEVER the actual issue was that the car was blocking the SOLID WHITE ASL entry lane and should have been way over, so the driver was the real issue.
I cycle but if I ever got an ebike I'd get one that didn't look cool to thieves. A bike like this would be way too attractive to a scally and I wouldn't feel safe either riding in secluded places like the loop line or if I was stopped near people at traffic lights.
I'm too 'hardcore' for an e-bike, but I appreciate fat tyres and disc brakes on my bike.
Just saw the community post. Packages should have a return address. Unles this address is the address of the seller of the package, you should report this to the police immediately! This creepy stalker behaviour will only escalate!
Sometimes there are blatant signs inconsiderate drivers who park across lowered kerbs or completely block cycle lanes. They need to told of their behaviour so they are more considerate in future.
26:20 Liverpool has a skyline? Well color me surprised 😅
14:35 a throttle would not turn this into an illegal motorbike. I have mentioned this before, but it is possible to have a throttle controlled EAPC in the UK. You just need to pay 55 quid to get it certified at a DVSA centre.
I think it's important to mention this, because there are some people for whom an e-bike would not be possible without a 'twist & go' throttle control.
I didn't know that.👍
@@ashley_neal yes, it's really not been communicated very well. As far as I can see, nobody has documented this process on CZcams. As you have a suitable bike, then you might consider doing a video about it? I think it would be a valuable contribution.
It's essentially a 'motorcycle single vehicle approval' (search for MSVA manual). In 2019 they introduced a category called 250W LPM (low powered moped), which is legally equivalent to an EAPC in the UK. It's a big document, but if you trawl through it, you'll find the things your bike needs in order to comply. I think it's just a front light and a stand if it's above a certain weight. It'll cost £55 at a DVSA centre, but then you'll be able to fit and use the throttle legally up to 15.5mph.
@@ashley_neal ok, I've gone over it. It basically just needs lights front and rear, plus usual reflectors. A bell/horn and a stand. Nearest IVA test centre to you is in Oldham.
Requirements for a 250W Low Power Moped from MSVA Manual:
01 Stands:
250W LPM needs a prop or centre stand that can keep the bicycle upright in all steering positions.
If the bike is over 35kg with battery, the stand needs to automatically retract when the bicycle is tilted vertically / pushed forward. OR an inhibitor switch needs to prevent the motor running if the stand is down.
02 Mirrors: Unbodied Vehicle:
No requirement for mirrors on a 250W LPM.
03 Mirrors: Bodied Vehicles:
Does not apply to 2 wheeled vehicles.
04 Speedometer:
Does not apply to low powered mopeds.
05 Audible Warning:
250W LPM needs a bell or horn.
06 Lighting:
250W LPM requires:
Front white light
Rear red light
Non-triangular red rear reflector
Amber pedal reflectors
08 External Projections - Unbodied Vehicles:
This does apply to 250W LPM, basically, make sure there's nothing sharp and pointy sticking out!
09 External Projections - Bodied Vehicles:
Does not apply to 2 wheeled vehicles.
10 Rear Registration Plate:
Does not apply to 250W LPM.
11 Handholds:
Does not apply to 250W LPM if no pillion passenger seat.
12 Headlamp Pattern - Unbodied Vehicles:
250W LPM front light should not dazzle.
13 Headlamp Aim - Bodied Vehicles:
Does not apply to unbodied 250W LPM.
14 Design and Construction:
250W LPM should be adequately constructed and not present a danger to the rider or other road users.
15 Tyres:
250W LPM should have tyres suitable for the machine.
16 Brakes:
250W LPM can have pushbike brakes, one independently operating front wheel, the other independently operating rear wheel.
17 Radio Suppression:
Does not apply to 250W LPM.
18, 19, 20 Exhaust System / Noise
Does not apply to 250W LPM.
21 Brake Performance:
250W LPM should have adequate braking performance.
22 Goods Vehicle Identification Plate:
Does not apply to 250W LPM.
23 Engine Power Restriction Information Plate:
Does not apply to 250W LPM.
24 Defrost/Demist:
Does not apply to two wheeled vehicles.
25 Seat Belts:
Does not apply to two wheeled vehicles.
26, 27 Glazing & Wipers:
Does not apply if not fitted.
29 Glossary:
250W LPM must be:
fitted with pedals which are capable of propelling it.
fitted with no motor other than electric with a max continuous power of 250W and cannot propel the bike above 16mph.
I'm only wearing gloves when my hands are cold.
Fingerless gloves are best if it’s warm.
0:28 where's the camera to get that shot?
It'll be a 360 camera on a stick/pole, with a software algorithm to make the pole (attached to the handlebars) invisible. You can see it early in the video in the shadows of the bike on the road.
@@davidatkinson-lifematters4826 yes I noticed the shadows a bit later. spooky though!
@@brantnuttall Strange as hell, unless you’ve tried one out!
@@davidatkinson-lifematters4826 lol
You could do giveaways to your viewers. To give away one of these ebikes that you have.
22:15 Why use the hatched area? It seemed more risky.
27:41 Those narrow "cycle lanes" are dangerous. I don't squeeze myself into one as they make drivers think the rest of the lane is "theirs" and they will close pass you, plus they are often poor surfaces and littered with drain covers, debris, and standing water.
32:35 The driver of that taxi needs reporting.
36:02 Passengers could open a door on you as you pass on the left, and left-turners could chop across you after you've been obscured from their view, what an odd design.
I also wouldn't be happy with some of the close passes shown, those drivers have no idea if you might have to avoid something in the road like a drain cover, if they CAN be further away they should be.
As a cyclist, I'd have used the hatched area too as it reduces the likelihood of an illegal overtake while one is turning right.
However, I think Ashley used it because he could tell the vehicle behind wasn't adjusting speed which is poor on their part.
@@unsafevelocities5687 As a cyclist there’s no way I would have used the hatched area like that, drivers wouldn’t expect me to be there, and it is there choice whether to overtake me or not rather than me forcing them to undertake me unnaturally.
@@scottvessey915 It's not unnatural to pass to the left of vehicles turning right and it's perfectly legal to do so. It also helps traffic flow.
What you said doesn't make sense. If following drivers have a choice about overtaking then they have a choice not to undertake too. They aren't forced to undertake either.
And I don't know why a driver shouldn't expect a two wheeler to be in the hatched area, especially when turning right. Also for pedal power, your good opportunity to move out often occurs slightly too soon for the turning area. You know that.
@@unsafevelocities5687 It is unnatural for ANY vehicle to be being driven or ridden over hatched areas for that amount of time or distance.
I believe it was more risky to be riding in the hatched area for that distance than it would have been to take a regular position then move over on approach to the junction.
If I'm the one who wants to turn, it's up to me to anticipate my distance from the junction and the traffic around me, identifying the best opportunity to move over while keep myself and others safe, and that means being seen (not potentially being obscured by an A pillar) and being predictable (not riding in the hatched area SO far before the junction)
You do things your way, and I'll do them mine thanks.
I'm pretty sure that's a 750w motor, That peaks at 1000w.
I've been on the road since I was 8, not driving obviously, but cycling and i learn something every time I'm out. The biggest issue I see is stupidity, mainly from drivers up here, but cyclists during the summer are also very stupid. These videos that you put out are excellent, and i'd pay £1500 for a bike with those tyres, my idea of heaven whilst cycling, as well as a comfy seat. And I've always changed my cycle brakes to something better
Can anyone tell me why it's acceptable to ride a bicycle different to a motorcycle. And why the police in the UK turn a blind eye to this ??
Because they're different things & different rules apply.
@beardyface8492 few rules for cyclists and they are not inforced anyway. At least motorcyclists have to pass a test and need insurance.
Motorised vehicles required test yes, speed restricted legal ebike not a requirement, problem solved. @@richardgiles2484
@@richardgiles2484 Like I said, different things, & no I don't support raising the minimum age to ride a bicycle to 16, or forcing 6 year old kids to go buy insurance.
Or the sheer cost of doing CBT courses & administration of the certificates for everyone including small kids.