Oxford is one of the best known cycling cities in the UK, so passing cyclists safely is something you will practise on almost every lesson. Getting it wrong is one of the easiest ways to put someone at risk, and it can also cost you your driving test. Here is what the Highway Code actually says, and how to apply it on Oxford's roads.
Rule 163 passing distances
If you cannot leave this much room safely, wait behind until you can.
What the Highway Code Actually Says
Rule 163 of the Highway Code says you should leave at least 1.5 metres when overtaking cyclists at speeds of up to 30mph, and give them more space when overtaking at higher speeds.
Cyclists
Leave at least 1.5 metres at speeds of up to 30mph, and give them more space at higher speeds.
Horse riders and horse drawn vehicles
Pass at speeds under 10mph and allow at least 2 metres of space.
Pedestrians walking in the road
For example where there is no pavement. Allow at least 2 metres and keep to a low speed.
These are "should" rules in the Highway Code rather than specific offences. However, passing too close can still lead to a prosecution for careless or dangerous driving, and police forces use close pass operations to spot and educate drivers.
Why Cyclists Need That Space
The Highway Code was updated on Saturday 29 January 2022 with several changes that affect how drivers and cyclists share the road.
- ASudden movementsCyclists may need to move out suddenly to avoid potholes, drain covers or car doors opening.
- BWind from passing carsWind from a passing car can push a cyclist off line, especially at higher speeds.
- CTime to reactMore space gives both you and the cyclist time to react if something unexpected happens.
Other Highway Code rules about cyclists
- Hierarchy of road users: those who can cause the greatest harm have the greatest responsibility to reduce the danger they pose to others.
- Centre of the lane: cyclists may ride in the centre of their lane on quiet roads, in slower traffic and at junctions or narrowings. This is not bad cycling, and you should not try to squeeze past.
- Two abreast: cyclists may ride two abreast, and should move into single file when it is safe to let you overtake.
- Turning at junctions: do not cut across cyclists going ahead. Give way to them as you would to a motor vehicle.
- Opening doors: use the hand furthest from the door, which makes you turn and look behind for cyclists.
Passing Cyclists Around Oxford
In Oxford you will meet cyclists on almost every road. These are some of the most common situations on lessons.
Examiners watch closely how you deal with cyclists. Passing too close, cutting in after overtaking, or turning across a cyclist's path can all be marked as faults, and a serious fault if it causes the cyclist to change speed or direction. Equally, hanging back when there is clearly enough room can be marked as a lack of progress. Patience is the key skill: in slower city traffic, waiting a few seconds behind a cyclist rarely costs you any real time.
Passing Cyclists, Step by Step
Look well ahead
Spot cyclists early so you can plan your pass.
Check the road
Check for oncoming traffic, junctions, traffic islands and parked cars before moving out.
Wait if you must
If you cannot give at least 1.5 metres, slow down and wait behind at a safe distance.
Move out in good time
Do not cut back in until you are well past.
Avoid the horn
Using the horn can startle a cyclist.
Check before turning left
Check your left mirror and blind spot before turning left, especially near cycle lanes.
Overtaking Cyclists: Your Questions Answered
How much space should I give a cyclist when overtaking?
Is it 2 metres at speeds over 30mph?
Can I cross a solid white line to overtake a cyclist?
Why do cyclists ride in the middle of the lane?
Build confidence around cyclists
Nervous about cyclists? It is one of the most common worries we hear from learners. Sharing the road with cyclists is part of everyday driving in Oxford, and it gets much easier with practice.
