Cycling in Spain. 

Cycling in Spain is a national pastime and is one of the most popular sports in Spain. With warm, bright and sunny days for most of the year, with open roads, winding mountainous routes for the more adventurous cyclist, affording the beautiful country views, as well as the multitude of good restaurants and bars that adorn many of the local routes, it is no surprise that many Expats in Spain regularly take to the roads.

Cycling accidents in Spain.

In recent months there have been a few campaigns to make the public more aware of the dangers of cycling in Spain. Unfortunately many deaths occur each year, either from accidents pertaining to the way that cyclists ride their bikes, vehicle having collisions with the cyclists and driving and cycling under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.

Cycling safeguards in towns and cities.

What can be done to safeguard cyclists? Some towns and villages in Spain have taken to providing specialist cycling routes and closing off parts of their towns and village centres to traffic. This is all very well, but not all roads have a cycle pathway and there are always inherent dangers on the road.

Cycling Tests.

Perhaps it is time to ensure that all potential cyclists, that do not have a driving licence and hence some road sense, undertake a mandatory cycling efficiency test.  Motor vehicle tests should now incorporate manoeuvres involving the overtaking and treatment of cyclists as part of that test.

Cycling teams.

In Spain there are many cycling teams that train in and around towns and on the narrow streets and winding mountainous roads, often causing some consternation to the drivers that are being blocked by the sheer numbers of cyclists in front of them. Cycling teams are often accompanied by support and backup vehicles that follow the cyclists to protect them from over zealous drivers trying to overtake.

Costs of cycling.

Bicycles are no longer just the basic two wheeled pedal machines that we know from old, Today’s bicycles are sophisticated, expensive machines that can cost thousands of Euros, be equipped with electric motors and have a host of accessories that make our lives easier when we want to take a bike ride. Get a quote to insure your bicycles in Spain.

Insurance protection.

As many of you live, work and are retired in Spain and use cycling as a method of keeping fit and getting about, more electric bicycles are being used to help with hills. It is imperative that you insure your bicycle.

Insuring your bicycle is not difficult or expensive, and your bicycle can often be incorporated within your house insurance policy for a small additional premium.

Personal accident and injury.

It is also well worth considering the personal accident and injury policy that we can provide. For less than 80€ a year you can be covered for cycling and most sports activities, as well as any other injuries caused at home, in the garden, at work or wherever you partake in activities you enjoy.  Personal accident and injury insurance will protect yourself in the event of an accident or injury. Emergency medical treatment can be very expensive so it is well worth the peace of mind knowing that you have cover.

Alcohol limits.

Remember, as a cyclist, you are classified the same as motorists when it comes to alcohol limits and popping down to the local bar on your bike and riding home under the influence can still land you in serious trouble.

Wearing of helmets.

It is obligatory for ALL cyclists under the age of 16 to wear helmets wherever they are cycling and it is compulsory for adults to do the same when outside city centres but are exempt in periods of excessive heat or for steep hills if you area professional cyclist. The law is not specific as to what constitutes a steep hill or excessive heat.

It makes common sense to wear a helmet at all times wherever you are cycling.

More information.

For more information on insuring your bicycles and personal accident and injury insurance, please visit our website or call us direct on 0034 965275727 and we will be happy to provide you with information and quotes for whatever insurances you require.