Riding a bike as an adult does not change much about how you need to ride. The rules of the road are the same, though you may ride in the street more as an adult than you did as a child or teenager. However, you have a wider range of bike types to choose from, some of which may change your riding style.
Preparation
If your bike has clipless pedals, toe clips, drop handlebars or any other feature you are unfamiliar with, learn to use it properly on a playground, vacant parking lot or your driveway before setting out on the road. Road bikes give you a very different riding position than mountain or kids bikes, and you must learn to balance, stop, brake and shift in the new position.
Road Position
Ride on the street. Motorists do not expect fast-moving traffic on the sidewalk when they pull out of their driveways. According to data collected by Ken Kifer, the author of many bicycling articles, you are in much more danger when you ride on the sidewalk than you are when you ride in the street. Ride in a straight line and signal your turns.
Signals and Signs
Obey traffic signs and lights, but do not depend on observing the laws to keep you safe. Be observant when passing intersections and driveways, even if you have the right of way, and look around you frequently. Use hand signals to show other road users when you are turning. Hold your left arm straight out for a left turn, hold it out and turn your forearm up at 90 degrees for a right turn. You may also signal when you slow down or stop by turning your forearm downward 90 degrees.
Visibility
A vital part of adult bike safety is visibility. If you ride your bike at dusk or night, you need a bright headlight and taillight. Reflectors are not sufficient to keep you safe. You may even want to use additional lights, such as a light clipped to your clothes. Check your local laws about bicycle lights to ensure you buy the right type of lights. You can also wear light-colored, fluorescent or reflective clothes.
Training
Bicycle advocacy organizations may offer free or inexpensive bike safety trainings, including readings, rides and testing. These trainings may last a couple of hours or half a day or even have multiple sessions. Trainings usually cover safe riding techniques, rules of the road and how to check your bike for safe operation before a ride.
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