Q I'm thinking of cycling from Madrid to Barcelona. Is there a cycle path network in Spain? And is there any other way of planning a route that avoids major roads? - MN, Hove
A Spain has Via Verde off-road cycle paths, built on disused railway lines, similar to some Sustrans routes in Britain, but they do not form a joined-up network across the country. Use Michelin maps to find minor roads (coloured white - avoid the main roads in red). If you are flying to Madrid, one of the biggest problems is escaping the airport on a bike. The cyclists' organisation, the CTC (www.ctc.org.uk), has an information sheet giving a rideable route from the airport.
It is worth investing in CTC membership: its touring department has much information on travelling in Spain and elsewhere.
Q I have bought clipless pedals for the first time. They don't seem to have any means of fitting reflectors. Does this make them illegal? - MB, London
A Technically, yes. The regulations say pedals should have reflectors front and back. But as you point out, this is impossible with most clipless pedal systems. In any case, if they did have reflectors, you would probably smash them with the first fumbled attempt to clip your shoes to the pedals.
Advertisement
The regulations look outdated - in much the same way that the rules covering flashing lights looked outdated until they were changed in 2005. Reflective strips on your clothing and reflectors on the bike should ensure you are seen at night by motorists.
Send your bike clinic questions to ingear@sunday-times.co.uk