Safe Cycling is Fun Cycling

by: Andrew Miller, Ark Valley Velo

Of the sure signs that spring has sprung in our area, the increase in volume of cars on Main Street with bikes and kayaks may be one of the most easy to recognize.  For many of us lucky enough to call the area home, the change of seasons means parking the car and getting out on our bikes for utility and recreation.  As we clean the dust of the bikes, let’s review some tips to keep the summer safe on two wheels.

After a long, hard winter, motorists may not be consciously thinking about the fact that we are back out on the road with them.  The best way to avoid incidents with motorists and pedestrians on the road is to ride respectfully and follow the rules of the road.

Cyclists should ride on the right side of the road with traffic and follow all traffic control devices.  Further, cyclists should indicate a change of lane, stop, or turn with the appropriate hand signal.  Be sure to ride in the furthest right lane of traffic that is heading to your destination taking care to give yourself enough room between traffic and parked cars or curbs.  Choose your routes based on known traffic patterns when possible.  Avoid the highway by crossing and riding in the neighborhoods where there is less traffic.

Another measure that you can take to be safe on the road is to ride predictably.  Cyclists should ride in a straight line and anticipate road hazards, correcting for them in advance of their encounter.  Always check for traffic at driveways and intersections.  Do not assume that vehicles and pedestrians are aware of your presence.  Use direct eye contact to establish your presence and be prepared to stop quickly if a vehicle or pedestrian move into your right-of-way.  As with driving, defensive riding is paramount to safe riding in traffic.

Visibility is an important consideration that should not be taken lightly while riding your bike.  Many folks who ride the roads regularly will wear an orange vest to further enhance their visibility.  At minimum, wear bright colored clothing that provides some contrast to the surroundings.  In times of low light, ride with a white light in front and a red light on the rear of your bicycle.  Reflectors on bikes also increase visibility, which increases safety on the road.

Perhaps the most important safety precaution you can take while riding your bike is to wear your helmet.  Whether you are out for a quick trip down to the store or a ride to the top of Cottonwood Pass a helmet is a necessary safety precaution.  The helmet should fit correctly, visit your local bike shop if you are uncertain as to whether you helmet fits correctly or not.

In a town the size of ours, a bicycle makes great sense for commuting to work, running errands, or just cruising around.  The enjoyment of riding a bicycle can be enhanced by sharing the experience with others who like to ride.  This past winter a group of cycling enthusiasts formed Ark Valley Velo.  AVV is a local cycling advocacy group which aims to make cycling safe and fun for riders of all ages, abilities, and disciplines.  The group has regular group rides and social events in addition to the advocacy work that it conducts.  To learn more about the Club check out our website at arkvalleyvelo.org.

Happy Trails!

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