Scouting & Guiding
Cycling & Mountain Biking Risk Assessment Template
The complete guide to creating professional risk assessments for cycling activities.
Free to use Instant PDF download Updated February 2026
The essential guide to cycling safety
Cycling and mountain biking develop fitness, confidence, and road safety awareness. From gentle trail rides to challenging off-road routes, these activities require proper equipment and supervision.
This guide covers everything you need to create a thorough cycling risk assessment—from helmet requirements and bike checks to route planning and group management.
Scouting Activity
Scouting Activity
Activity Benefits
Why cycling matters
Physical Fitness
Improves cardiovascular fitness and builds strength and endurance.
Road Safety
Develops road safety awareness and cycling confidence.
Environmental
Promotes sustainable transport and environmental awareness.
Teamwork
Encourages teamwork and peer support during group rides.
Risk Identification
Key hazards & control measures
Collision with TrafficHigh Risk
Potential Harm
Serious injury from collision with vehicles on roads.
Control Measures
- Plan routes using cycle paths where possible
- Hi-vis clothing worn by all riders
- Front and rear lights in low visibility
- Brief on road positioning and signals
Falls & CrashesHigh Risk
Potential Harm
Head injuries, fractures, abrasions from falls.
Control Measures
- Correctly fitted helmets worn by all
- Route appropriate for ability level
- Check brakes before ride
- Maintain safe distances between riders
Mechanical FailureMedium Risk
Potential Harm
Loss of control due to brake failure, chain issues, punctures.
Control Measures
- Pre-ride bike checks (M-check)
- Carry puncture repair kit
- Tools for basic repairs
- Report any issues immediately
Group SeparationMedium Risk
Potential Harm
Cyclists becoming lost or isolated from group.
Control Measures
- Lead and sweep riders designated
- Regular regroup points agreed
- Route briefing before departure
- Buddy system for less confident riders
This guide covers the most common hazards. Our risk assessment wizard includes 23 hazards and 59+ control measures for Cycling & Mountain Biking, sourced from industry guidance — create your assessment in minutes.
Safety Checklist
Cycling safety checklist
Bikes
- Brakes working
- Tyres inflated
- Lights working
- Correct frame size
Safety Gear
- Helmets fitted
- Hi-vis worn
- Gloves available
- Repair kit carried
Route
- Route planned
- Weather checked
- Base contact informed
- Regroup points agreed
Emergency
- First aid kit carried
- Phone charged
- Emergency contacts known
- Medical info collected
Ready to create your cycling risk assessment?
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