Millions of people take to roads and trails every day on bicycles. Some ride for exercise and others for recreation. Many use bicycles as an alternative to driving a car. Whatever your reasons for bicycling, safety is a primary consideration. Biking safety isn't complicated. Mostly you need the right equipment, the self-discipline to pay attention to your surroundings and a little common sense.
The Right Bicycle
Bicycle safety starts with the right size bike. A properly sized bike is easier to control and reduces the chances of injury. Stand astride of the bike. There should be 1 to 2 inches clearance between the crotch and the crossbar. For mountain or trail bikes, this should be 2 to 4 inches. For children, make sure seats and handlebars are adjustable to allow for growth. When a pedal is in its lowest position your foot should rest on the pedal with the leg almost fully extended. Finally, use the right type of bike for the terrain. A racing bike isn't designed for mountains and mountain bikes aren't designed for speed.
Helmet
Your helmet is your No. 1 piece of safety equipment. The most serious injuries in bike accidents are primarily to the head. A bicycle helmet should be comfortable but snug. With the chin strap fastened, it should be secure enough not to come off in the event of a sudden jar or blow. Helmets are available at any bicycle shop and the personnel can help you make sure you get a proper fit.
Equipment
Other clothing can help you have a safe bike riding experience. If you do any riding at night, purchase a vest or other apparel with reflective coating and a headlight for your bike. Always wear shoes that are secure and have nonskid soles that grip the pedals. Riding gloves are a plus because they can reduce hand chafing and improve your grip on the handlebars. Your other clothing should not be so loose that it can become snared in the bicycle chain or pedals.
Traffic
If you have the option always ride on designated bike paths or at least choose quiet side streets instead of busy thoroughfares. When you must ride in traffic, the law requires you keep to the right. A cyclist in traffic is responsible for obeying the same traffic laws as are motorized vehicles. This means stopping at red lights, allowing adequate space between you and vehicles ahead of you, and so on. When you turn, give the appropriate hand signal.
Considerations
Much of bicycle safety is a matter of being aware of what is happening around you. For example, don't ride so far to the right that you will be slammed if the door on a parked car is opened unexpectedly. Watch the cars around you for indications they may stop or turn in front of you. Above all, avoid reckless behavior like weaving in and out of cars stopped at a light or coasting with your hands off the handlebars.
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