Bicycle safety guide – what to know about before going on a cycling trip

Bicycle safety is an important topic for any bike shop blog. Here are a few tips for staying safe while cycling:

1. Wear a helmet: This is perhaps the most important safety measure you can take while cycling. A good quality helmet can help to protect your head in the event of a crash or fall. Be sure to choose a helmet that fits properly and is certified by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).
2. Use lights and reflectors: If you’ll be cycling in low light conditions or at night, it’s important to make yourself as visible as possible to other road users. Use lights and reflectors on your bike and wear reflective clothing to increase your visibility.
3. Follow traffic laws: Just like any other vehicle on the road, bicycles are subject to traffic laws. Make sure to follow all traffic signals, stop signs, and other road signs to keep yourself and others safe.
4. Use hand signals: When turning or changing lanes, be sure to use hand signals to communicate your intentions to other road users. This will help to avoid any confusion or accidents.
5. Stay alert: Always pay attention to your surroundings while cycling. Keep an eye out for cars, pedestrians, and other hazards, and be prepared to react if necessary.
6. Wear appropriate clothing: In addition to a helmet, it’s important to wear clothing that is appropriate for cycling. Avoid loose-fitting clothes that could get caught in the bike’s moving parts, and consider wearing reflective clothing or accessories to increase your visibility.
7. Check your bike before riding: Before you set out on a ride, take a few minutes to give your bike a quick once-over. Make sure that everything is tightened and in good working order, and check the brakes and tires to ensure that they are in good condition.
8. Stay visible: As mentioned above, visibility is key when it comes to cycling safety. Use lights and reflectors on your bike and wear reflective clothing to make yourself more visible to other road users.
9. Use bike lanes and paths: Whenever possible, use bike lanes or designated bike paths to separate yourself from motorized traffic. These routes are often safer and more enjoyable to ride on.
10. Follow the rules of the road: Just like drivers, cyclists are required to follow traffic laws. This includes stopping at stop signs, signaling when turning, and yielding to pedestrians.
11. Avoid distractions: It’s important to stay focused while cycling. Avoid using your phone or listening to music with headphones, as these distractions could put you at risk.
12. Be cautious at intersections: Intersections can be particularly dangerous for cyclists, as they are often the site of collisions with cars. Stay alert and use caution when approaching intersections, and be prepared to stop if necessary.
13. Use proper hand signals: As mentioned earlier, hand signals are an important way to communicate your intentions to other road users. Make sure to use them when turning or changing lanes to avoid any confusion.
14. Stay sober: Alcohol and drugs can impair your judgment and reaction time, making cycling more dangerous. Always ride sober to keep yourself and others safe.
15. Take a bike safety course: If you’re new to cycling or just want to brush up on your skills, consider taking a bike safety course. These courses can teach you valuable skills and techniques for staying safe on the road.

By following these tips, you can help to ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable cycling experience. Remember, safety should always be your top priority when cycling, so take the necessary precautions to protect yourself and others on the road.