Cycling is not just about speed and endurance—it's also about safety. Learning how to handle your bike in emergencies, such as braking techniques or dealing with a crash, can make all the difference. If you've watched the 12th stage of the Tour de France, you might remember Geraint Thomas from the Sky Team taking a fall on a slippery downhill in the Pyrenees. What stood out was how he managed the crash—his movements were smooth, controlled, and ultimately saved him from a worse outcome. Let’s take a closer look at his technique and what we can learn from it.
First, assume the right position. Thomas bent his elbows, looked ahead, and kept his inner knee pointing toward the turn. He pressed down on the inside handlebar and positioned the outer pedal at its lowest point, shifting his weight onto it. His body remained upright while the bike leaned. Many people think they should lean with the bike, but the key is to keep your weight over the tire. This helps maintain control even when the bike starts to slide.
Second, correct the slip. When the rear wheel began to skid, Thomas had time to react because the bike was still under his body. The tires experienced two lateral forces: one from the turn and another from the brakes. Braking too hard can cause the wheels to lose grip. So, he released the brakes, allowing the wheels to regain traction. He also turned the handlebars slightly outward, which helped straighten the bike and prevent it from going off course.
Third, find an exit. By keeping his body upright, Thomas limited the forces acting on the bike. Straight-line riding allows for more effective braking than turning. With quick reflexes, he didn’t need to zigzag. Instead, he aimed for a safe gap between cars and rode into the grass, avoiding the hard road surface.
Fourth, choose a soft landing. Even after slowing down, there wasn’t much space to cushion the fall. So, he intentionally let go of the bike in a controlled way to minimize impact.
Finally, land and roll. He lifted his right foot, extended his arm, and bent his elbows upon contact with the ground. Then, he rolled to the left, protecting his shoulders and hips from serious injury.
By following these steps, cyclists can better manage unexpected situations on the road. Whether you're a casual rider or a competitive cyclist, understanding how to handle a crash is essential. Stay safe, stay aware, and always ride with care.
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