top of page

TIPS FOR BICYCLE SAFETY

Getting your bike ready to ride

 

ABC QUICK CHECK

 

A is for air

Inflate tires to rated pressure as listed on the sidewall of the tire

Use a pressure gauge to insure proper pressure

Check for damage to tire tread and sidewall; replace if damaged

 

B is for brakes

Inspect pads for wear; replace is there is less than ¼” of pad left

Check pad adjustment; make sure they do not rub tire or dive into spokes

Check brake level travel; at least 1″ between bar and lever when applied

 

C is for cranks, chain and cassette

Make sure that your crank bolts are tight; lube the threads only, nothing else

Check your chain for wear; 12 links should measure no more than 12 1/8 inches

If your chain skips on your cassette, you might need a new one or just an adjustment

 

Quick is for quick releases

Hubs need to be tight in the frame; your quick release should engage at 90°

Your hub quick release should point back to insure that nothing catches on it

Inspect brake quick releases to insure that they have been re-engaged

 

Check is for check it over

Take a quick ride to check if derailleurs and brakes are working properly

Inspect the bike for loose or broken parts; tighten, replace or fix them

Pay extra attention to your bike during the first few miles of the ride

 

BASIC RULES OF THE ROAD

(Check out our page on MS Bike Laws) 

 

  • Ride predictably, use hand signals and make eye contact with drivers.

  • Don’t ever ride in the door zone

  • Frequently check behind you for approaching traffic

  • Get lights and reflectors for night time riding

  • Don’t pass on the right

  • Don’t stop to the right of cars at a red light—take the lane!

  • Wear a helmet and fit it properly

  • Treat motorists and pedestrians with the same respect that you expect to receive. 

 

TOP 3 MOST COMMON REASONS FOR CRASHES

 

  • Motorist turning or merging into the path of a bicyclist 

 

  • Motorist overtaking a bicyclist (often involving a motorist who misjudged the space required to safely pass).

 

  • Bicyclist turning or merging into the path of a motorist (often involving a bicyclist making a left turn in front of a motorist traveling in the same direction.)

bottom of page