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Cycling Etiquette

I love cycling! And I did a lot of it last year when I visited The Netherlands! Beautiful! The fall is a great time of year to dust off your bike and hit the road. It’s not only great for the body, but it’s a great way to escape. Leave the computer, cell phone and other digital distractions behind and hit the open road!

Before you strap on your helmet, here are some cycling etiquette reminders for you:

1. Safety is your number one priority
2. Always wear a helmet, even though it might look dorky. See #1!
3. Wear reflective gear if you’re venturing out at dusk
4. Make yourself highly visible at all times. Avoid getting in a driver’s blind spot, especially at street corners and stoplights
5. Add a light to the front and back of your bike. Visibility, again, is a big one, and a light is a must to be safe on the roads after daylight
6. Hook up a bell to your bike. Being heard is just as important as been seen!
7. Wear proper clothing. Choose clothing and shoes that are comfortable and suit your bicycle. You don’t want anything to get caught in the wheels (or reveal too much skin!) Protective eyewear is also a great idea. Avid cyclists find ski goggles work the best. They protect much of your face and they’re fog proof!
8. Red means stop. Obey the rules of the road-both at traffic lights and stop signs. (Did I mention…Safety first?)
9. Know and use arm signals:
   1. Left arm straight out to signal a left turn
   2. Right arm straight out for a right turn
   3. Palm or fist behind your lower back to signal slowing or stopping (when in a group)
10. Stay to the right when in front of a group of cyclists to allow room for others to pass safely on your left
11. Communicate when riding with a group. If you see a hazard up ahead, let your fellow cyclists know about it
12. Maintain a steady, straight line and avoid braking or changing direction suddenly
13. Never try to push your rights with vehicles (if in doubt…yield)
14. Plan your route stick to approved cycle trails when you can
15. Have Fun!

Bonus cycling tip – Drink lots of water!

Happy Cycling!!!

– Margaret

Quote of the Month

Life is like riding a bicycle. To keep your balance you must keep moving.

~ Albert Einstein

Posted by Margaret Page in Newsletters.