With temperatures soaring and the summer heat showing little sign of letting up, the Bicycling Advocacy Group has warned cyclists that they will have to pay extra care when pedalling in the heat. 

Six rules to follow

1. Keep hydrated  
As a rough guideline, you should be drinking twice your normal daily average during a heatwave. Always carry a water bottle.

2. Dress lightly
You might wear a suit to work, but that doesn't mean you have to cycle in one. Consider wearing tech clothing which is designed to wick away sweat. 

3. Avoid the searing sun
A heatwave is a perfect opportunity to practice getting up bright and early and making it to your destination before the day's heat kicks in.

4. Pick flatter routes
If your usual route takes you up hills or right into the sun, consider an alternative course. Remember that often different parts of urban roads are in the shade at different parts of the day, so work these new shady lanes into your commute. 

5. Ditch the weight

Get as much luggage off you and onto your bike instead. Leave the backpack at home and instead carry your work clothes in panniers, a saddle bag or handlebar bag. 

6. Give your helmet some TLC

Don't remove pads that are sweaty - rinse the whole helmet instead. This will help the pads last longer. Also consider wearing a bandana under your helmet to soak up any sweat. Wetting it before you leave gives you an added advantage and will help you keep your cool while everyone else is losing theirs.