Cycling forwards, facing backwards

Cycling in traffic can leave you feeling like you need eyes in the back of your head, but stuntman Eskil Ronningsbakken makes a habit of facing backwards when he rides his bicycle – even when careering down a mountain.

The Trollstigen is a narrow and treacherous winding road in Norway punctuated by hairpin turns and steep drops. Ronningsbakken, who uses meditation to prepare for his stunts, completed the three-mile descent stretch in two-and-a-half minutes, reaching a top speed of 50 mph.

Rear observation

A minority of collisions occur because of a shunt from behind, but that is not to say that cyclists should not keep a good eye on what is going on behind them. It is possible to fit rear view mirrors to bicycle handlebars, frames and even spectacles, but they do not always give a full picture of what is going on behind. Rear observation is best achieved with a quick glance over the shoulder.

This type of safety check lets a cyclist know what is going on behind them and, just as importantly, serves to alert an approaching motorist of their presence. Looking behind also warns drivers that a cyclist may be about to signal or alter course. Novice riders can find the idea of looking over their shoulder in this way a little disconcerting, but it is a skill worth mastering – motorcyclists call the quick glance they perform before committing themselves to a manoeuvre a ‘life saver’ for good reason.

All-round protection

Even if you only occasionally ride your bicycle, do not underestimate the benefit of a specialist cycle insurance policy. A fully-comprehensive policy from the ETA includes cover against theft, accidental damage and vandalism. Should the worse happen and you are knocked off your bike, our experienced legal team is ready to spring into action on your behalf. The insurance also covers against theft, accidental damage, vandalism and many other benefits as standard and at no additional cost. Get an instant quote.