Riding a bicycle is good exercise, and can be enjoyable and relaxing. It can also be dangerous if you do not follow proper safety rules and take certain precautions. Bicyclists often ride among other cyclists, pedestrians and even motor vehicles. You must learn to co-exist with others and maintain your bicycle in a safe manner to protect yourself from injury.
Bike Maintenance
Keep your bike tires properly inflated, as they will gradually lose air over time. The correct air pressure should be stamped on the side of the tires. Check your brakes regularly, check and tighten all bolts, and keep the bike chain lubricated. Bring a repair kit with you so you can make emergency repairs like fixing a flat tire or do other quick repairs out on the road.
Protective Equipment
A helmet is a necessity for safe bicycle riding. The California Department of Transportation states that head injuries are the most frequent serious injuries to befall bicyclists. Check your helmet's fit before each ride and adjust it if necessary. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recommends attaching a rear view mirror to your helmet--or on your glasses and handlebars--to help you change lanes and make other moves on your bike safely. Mount a bell or horn on your bicycle and, along with verbal warnings, use it to alert pedestrians of your presence.
Make Yourself Visible
Bicycles are relatively small, silent vehicles that are easily overlooked by motorists and even pedestrians. Make yourself more visible by wearing brightly colored clothing. A helmet in bright colors with reflective strips will help, too. Equip your bike with a light and reflectors if you ride at night.
Follow Road Rules
Ride on the right-hand side of the road or bike trail, and stay single file if you're riding in a group. Obey all traffic signs and signals when riding on streets, and use proper hand signals to alert others when you are going to turn. Watch out for cars that may turn in front of you. Many states have a downloadable booklet of bicycle rules of the road on their Department of Motor Vehicles websites.
Watch for Hazards
Bicycle riders can face many hazards, such as potholes in the road, glass or other debris, or loose dogs. Remain alert and continually scan the area around you. Don't use distracting items such as iPods or cell phones while on your bike. Ride defensively so you can react quickly and take evasive action when confronted with an unexpected situation.
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