How To Ride A Bat Bike
Getting to and fro by bicycle is one of the simplest, cheapest and most environmentally-friendly way to travel.
If you're out fighting crime with the kids, however, you should note that their beady little eyes are watching you at all times, and copying everything you do, so you need to remember that you're not really Batman and Robin, and therefore not invincible, which is why your cycling skills are going to need to be top-notch.
Step 1: Before You Start
To the bike-shed! Make sure you've got all the following Bat gear, and that it's all in top condition:
A well-fitting helmet, fluorescent materials for daylight and dusk, and reflective clothing for when you're chasing criminals after dark. And don't forget the right bike; make sure it's the right size for your child and is properly adjusted.
Make sure all your gear is in tip-top condition and in good working order, so you have a safe Bat-ride. Check your Bat-bike's lights, brakes, reflectors, saddle and tyres before each ride.
Step 2: Ride Safely
Always take the smartest, safest route on your bat-journey, avoiding busy roads, particularly if your kids are in tow. Their bat-bike skills aren't as honed as yours.
What's more, avoid any unnecessary distractions: Listening to a comedy podcast on your mp3 player or chatting on your mobile could send you right into the path of an oncoming juggernaut, so switch off the Bat phone before you head out.
Step 3: Keep It Legal
You may be the scourge of wrong-doers everywhere, but that's no excuse for playing fast and loose with the traffic laws. Jumping red lights, cycling the wrong way up a one way street, and cycling across a pedestrian crossing are all illegal.
Step 4: Common Sense
Holy Bikeability batman! It may have been a while since you took your own cycling proficiency test, so you need to remember to ride decisively and signal your intentions early. That way you'll give everyone else on the road plenty of notice about what you're going to do.
Give yourself plenty of space on the left – don't ride in the gutter just because there's someone behind you. If the cars are flying past you, try using the cycle paths instead.
Finally, re-read the Highway Code before you set off. Ride safely and sensibly, and you'll be enjoying Battenberg cake on the village green with the vicar's batty wife in no time…
