While in some countries of the European Union the number of bicycles is higher than the number of inhabitants (see the Netherlands), in Bucharest, the capital of an EU member state, there are still a lot of dangers lurking if you want to use the bicycle as a means of transportation.

Although the benefits of cycling are undeniable, for the environment, for individuals and for society as a whole, in Bucharest cycling is not encouraged at all. There are extremely few lanes, and even some of them are made just to be ticked off, without being able to be used properly, and even endangering the lives of cyclists. 

If, however, you insist on getting around our chaotic capital by bike, here are a few things to keep in mind:

1.      Wear a helmet - Whether you care about messing your hair or not, it's important to wear a helmet. You can injure yourself when you least expect it, and most importantly, have your head protected.  

2.      Wear a safety vest and keep your lights on during the day. It's essential to be visible in traffic and as Bucharest is chaotic... no lights are too much!

3.      Learn the rules of the road - at least the ones about priority. Once you're out cycling, you're no longer a pedestrian. The highway code regulates the movement of all vehicles on the road. 

4.      Remember to get off your bike when crossing. If you cross, you are considered a pedestrian. If you're a pedestrian, you're not on the bike.

5.      Make sure you manage to ride one-handed while looking behind you - ride one-handed so you can signal, and look behind you to make sure you can turn. It's vital to do this. 

6.      Watch out for streetcar tracks. The recommendation is to cut them as perpendicular as possible, otherwise your front wheel may slip and you risk hitting your head on the tram tracks.

7.      When riding on narrow streets, take up the whole lane. It's important to walk in the middle and not let the car overtake you if you feel it's endangering you. Unfortunately, the law allows drivers to overtake you without changing lanes, even on big roads, and as many drivers don't keep a safe distance from cyclists...

8.      Watch out for parked cars. They can leave the parking lot at any time without signaling. What's more, just as dangerous are those that pull out right in front of you, because in many cases rear passengers open the door without looking out, risking an accident. 

9.      Watch out when the traffic lights are red and you're weaving between cars. Make sure you are seen by the drivers, otherwise you risk being hit if one of them changes lanes without checking.

10.   Don't pass on the right, especially when a car is approaching an intersection or parking space. Drivers don't look in the right-hand mirror, and passengers on the right don't look in the mirror when opening the door.

11.   Avoid riding your bike in the rain. The window fogs up, the lights reflect off the wet pavement and you have no visibility at all.

12.   Always keep two fingers on the brakes. You may need to brake quickly and, if you're prepared, you'll save at least a second - which can often be life-saving. 

Also recommended: Tips and tricks. Public transport in Bucharest: how to get around on the metro, buses and trams