Road Tips for Beginners

• Avoid busy roads. Use lesser traveled residential streets whenever possible; take some extra time and enjoy the ride!
• Be very careful when turning left, especially if there is a lot of traffic in either direction. On very busy roads, it is sometimes better to pull over to the right, dismount and walk across when the way is safe.
• Watch for turning automobiles. A vehicle turning left across your path may not see you. Be prepared to stop.
• A vehicle slowing to turn right should never be passed on the right. After checking traffic behind you and signaling, you may pass on the left.
• Never pass a bus on the right as you may collide with passengers getting off the bus.
• When riding near parked cars, be aware that car doors can suddenly open in front of you. Ride far enough away from parked cars that an open door won't be a problem.
• When riding on a two-lane road, be aware of traffic backing-up behind you and allow it to pass whenever possible.
• Be considerate to right-turning motorists when stopped at an intersection by leaving them room to make their turn, especially if it is permitted to make a right turn on red.
• Let pedestrians and other cyclists know you are passing them with an audible warning before you pass. If a conflict arises, pedestrians have the right-of-way.
• Try to select your lowest practical gear so that your legs can spin smoothly while maintaining pressure on your pedals. This will reduce strain on your knees.
• ALWAYS cross railroad tracks at a perpendicular.
• Never ride through puddles of water as it may be a deep pot hole.
• On narrow roads without a shoulder, ride 14 to 24 inches from the edge of the pavement to help prevent cars from wanting to pass you without sufficient clearance.
• Never use your brakes on road sand or silt and always avoid rocks.
• Do NOT use headphones (iPods, etc.) on the bike.