By: Robert Heijdemann
Rijswijk has just completed a two-day Refresher Cycling Course for the elderly. With theory and practice. What are the rules, who is allowed on a cycle path and who is not? In the cabin of a truck you experience for yourself what a blind spot entails. But also cycle a slalom, make turns and have your bike adjusted by a bicycle mechanic.
Safety central
This Refresher Course is now being given for the third time in Rijswijk and is popular. With the rise of new vehicles such as fat bikes and electric scooters, it can be difficult for the elderly to move safely in traffic. Veilig Verkeer Nederland therefore offers refresher courses for the elderly to brush up on their traffic skills. “The course is important, we are seeing more and more vehicles in traffic. The elderly are not always used to that,” says Roexana Abdoella of Veilig Verkeer Nederland as she watches the students’ actions. “It is very important to make them clear what the rules are and to get them used to driving new vehicles. They often do not know whether new vehicles are allowed on the cycle path or not. They don’t think they will encounter them along the way, but that is the case.”
Practice slalom
The eleven participants practice on the course behind the Theater with a road narrowing, a slalom and a turn. “They find it a bit strange at first, but after a few times it goes well. They can actually encounter these kinds of situations in traffic,” Roexana adds.
The Mobile Bicycle Repairman is also present during the practical exercise. He checks the bicycles for safety and ergonomics. “Are the brakes good, because that is very important with electric bicycles. I also check the tire pressure. That determines the range of your battery,” he says. He also draws attention to posture. “When you cycle longer distances, you can experience problems with your arms and back if the adjustment is not correct. The steering wheel adjustment is often incorrect.”
Looking ahead
At the end of the two-day workshop, Erika says she is happy that she participated. “After the accident it was a bit scary to start cycling again. But these two days I learned a lot. When cycling you have to keep your distance and not look at the ground but ahead.” She hopes that such a free course will be given again soon. “I think it is good that the municipality is also committed to this. Older people cycle for longer. Then such a refresher course is important for your safety. You don’t want people to have an accident like I had.”
