Biking Hints and Etiquette

1. The first rule for cycling safety is TO BE SEEN. Wear bright colors when cycling on roads. Red, yellow, orange are quite visible.
2. Helmets should ALWAYS be worn when cycling. They should be tipped forward. If tipped backward, the forehead is exposed and the helmet will catch wind.
3. Keep to the RIGHT in traffic, not in the gutter, as it will be too hard for other traffic to see you.
4. Use LEFT arm with finger pointing to signal LEFT turns. For turns to the RIGHT, use the LEFT arm again, but with the lower part (from elbow to hand) turned up 90 degrees. Use these signals liberally!
5. Announce out loud when you are overtaking someone. Pass on the LEFT. This will prevent surprises to those being passed.
6. When riding with others, ALWAYS announce when you are stopping.
7. Do not ride through a puddle if you can avoid it. It is not uncommon to find a gaping hole under the water!
8. Wear sunglasses on bright, sunny days. Squinting into the sun contributes significantly to the sensation of fatigue.
9. Do not forget to pump up the tires to the correct pressure, before each ride. Maintain the proper pressure at all times.
10. Joining a bike club is the best and quickest way to learn first hand about the sport.