Today, I’m feeling a bit bad about myself. I’m new to cycling, and to be quite honest, I was going too recklessly and almost got myself hit by a car or two. I could absolutely learn how to check my turns better.
What are your favorite tips for learning how to cycle safely in the city?
Grip.
I know classic bikes are pretty. But seriously, i wouldn’t ever feel safe on a bike that has tires thinner than 2 inches.
I’ve found the tyre compound matters more for grip rather than tyre thickness - specifically for commute cycling on smooth road and paved surfaces.
MTB tyre compounds tend to be much more grippy/rubbery, whereas hybrid & commuter tyre compounds tend to be less grippy to reduce rolling resistance (like Schwalbe road cruisers, land cruisers)
Wide tyres and tread patterns absolutely help, but I think they have their own distinct advantages, like cushioning from rough road surfaces and keeping traction on loose/soft surfaces.
That said I still feel a little bit uncomfortable on my slim 700Cs but they have not failed me yet lol.
Sorry but this advice is kinda ridiculous. I commute year-round on 35mm tires, but including Canadian winters. I’ve never really felt like wider tires would be beneficial, except 2-3 super snowy days a year. 50mm is wider than most people use for mountain biking here, let alone commuting.