From a lower saddle to flat tires: this is how you can protect yourself against slippery cycle paths (Hasselt)

Due to the snowfall on Wednesday evening and Thursday morning, not only the roads, but also the cycle paths are slippery in places. Cyclists should therefore pay attention. “Now is not the time to break Strava records.”

It is quite slippery on Thursday morning, among other things, on the cycle path at the bridge of the Kempische Steenweg in Hasselt. Some cyclists err on the side of caution and cross the bridge with their bicycle in hand.

The Cyclists’ Union received one report from Hasselt on Thursday morning. “The cycle path on Schiervellaan was dangerous,” says spokesperson Wies Callens. “But that was in the early morning. We currently see the biggest problems mainly around Brussels.”

Tips

What can cyclists do to avoid a nasty fall in the snow? “Just like in the car, you also pay attention to your speed on the bicycle,” says Callens. “It’s not the time to start breaking Strava records. You don’t always see what lies beneath the snow. Also make sure that your tire pressure is not too high. Flat tires give you more grip in snow and icy conditions.”

“A third tip is to lower your bicycle saddle. This way your center of gravity is a little lower and you have more stability. Be extra careful on bridges and bicycle bridges. After all, spreading is more difficult there. If the cycle path has been poorly cleared, you as a cyclist may also ride on the roadway. Also take your place on the street and make sure you are clearly visible. Although it is of course best not to drive on roads where the speed limit is 70 km/h. That is possible in a zone 30.”

“It is of course always important to be well lit and visible. If the snow on the cycle path is disturbing, you can report this to the government or municipality. This can be done, for example, via the Road Reporting Point, the Cyclists’ Union app or the website of your municipality. Especially in smaller municipalities, it is important to provide smooth cycle paths.”