Richardson, TX
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With the increasingly popularity of using bicycles to commute, for exercise, or just for fun, using bicycles safely makes sure that everyone enjoys the activity.
Helmets
Every bike ride should begin with putting on a helmet. But just having a helmet on is not enough, rather you need to ensure your helmet is on your head properly so it can properly protect you.
Fitting your bike helmet
Step 1: Measure your head to find your size. Manufactures may have different sized helmets, so trying on different helmets until one feels right is important.
Step 2: The position of your helmet should be level on your head and low on your forehead. An easy way to tell is to put either one or two finger-widths above your eyebrows.
Step 3: Adjust the sliders on the side of the helmets to form a V slightly In-front of or under the ears. If possible, lock the slider so it does not move.
Step 4: Buckle the chin strap, making sure it is tight enough to be snug. Test out the fit by placing two fingers between the strap and your chin.
Step 5: Gently shake your head side to side to see how much your helmet moves, a well fitting helmet will not move much.
If you are unsure about any of the steps in the process, please watch this short video from the League of American Bicyclists.
Before Riding
Before you start riding your bike, always perform an ABC quick check to make sure the bike is working and in a safe condition.
A: Air
Check your tire pressure before getting on the bike. Use your thumb to press into the tire, if it gives a little you should add some additional air into your tires.
B: Brakes
When squeezing on the brakes, you should be able to fit your thumb between the handlebars and the brake lever. If you are unable to have your thumb between the lever and handlebars, check your brake pads to see if they are worn.
C: Chain, Crank, Cassette
Make sure your chain is running smoothly, lightly oiled and free of rust by spinning it backwards a few revolutions.
Quick Release
If your bike has quick release wheels, make sure the release levers are closed and secure.
Check
As you start your ride, listen for any rubbing, grinding or clicking noises, which may indicate a different issue.
Here is a quick video of what the ABC Quick Check looks like.
Rules of the Road
While riding your bicycle, you are considered a vehicle which means that by law, you are required to follow the rules of the road.
Follow the Law
Your safety and the perceptions of other bicyclists depend how you act on the road. You have the same rights and duties as drivers, such as obeying traffic signals and stop signs. Make sure that you ride with traffic, using the rightmost lane headed in the directions you are going.
Be Predictable
Make sure your intentions are clear to everyone on the road. Ride in a straight line when possible and avoid swerving around parked cars. Make sure to signal turns, and check all directions before making a turn or changing lanes.
Be Conspicuous
When you ride, make sure to ride where people can see you and wear bright clothing. While riding, make sure your bicycle has a front white light, rear red light and reflectors to help others see you while riding especially when visibility is poor.
Think Ahead
While riding, try to anticipate what drivers, pedestrians and other people on bikes will do next. Make sure to watch for turning vehicles and ride outside the door zone of parked cars. Watch for road hazards like debris or potholes.
Additional Resources, Guides and Video's
Bicycle Safer Journey
Bicycle Safer Journey are videos that help to start conversations with your kids about bicycle safely. Developed by the Federal Highway Administration, there are three different videos based on age groups (5-9; 10-14; 15-18).
Take a Bike Class
Sign up for a BikeDFW class taught by League Certified Instructors (LCI's) from the League of American Bicyclists. Some classes they have available are:
- Learn To Ride A Bicycle: Adult (age 13 and up)
- Learn To Ride A Bicycle: Youth (12 and under)
- Bicycling Skills 123: Adult (age 13 and up)
- Smart Cycling: Traffic Skills 101
- Commuting
- Group Riding
Look Out Texans
Learn your rights and responsibilities on the road when you're bicycling. For more information and safety tips, please go to LookOutTexans.org
Riding Tips
The videos below provide additional riding tips.
Signaling and Scanning
Signaling and Scanning are important tasks that you should do while biking. Signaling helps other road users (pedestrians, bicyclists or drivers) to know what you are doing. Scanning helps to make sure you know where other road users are and what they are doing.
Lane Positioning and Intersections
Properly positioning yourself in a lane or in a intersections makes sure that you are easily seen and where others will expect to see you.
Starting, Stopping and Shifting
Starting, Stopping and Shifting are all extremely important in making sure that