There is no doubt that the art of cycling has gained popularity over the past few years as more and more people are getting on the bike daily. In our previous articles, we have all read the benefits of cycling on our overall health and fitness.
Even, some describe cycling to be the new golf that brings greener pastures, thus expanding our social circles to the world of opportunities. In this article, we won’t be discussing the benefits. Yeah. As cycling continues to gain popularity in our society, so does one needs to talk about other topics surrounding cycling.
Obviously, the journey of cycling begins at different stages of life. While some people have been cycling at a tender age, others began cycling as adults. However, this doesn’t rule out the fact that there are so much more to learn in cycling.
Yes. There are many unwritten rules, do’s and don’ts that many cyclists learned the hard way. So, let’s dive into some of the do’s and don’ts of cycling. Shall we?
Follow the Rules of the Road
Ideally, you need to obey all the traffic signs and rules displayed during cycling. Surprisingly, if you are riding on the road, you should still follow all the traffic rules that concern automobile drivers too. Some of these rules include street lights, stop signs, signaling when turning and riding at a recommended speed limit.
Be On Alert During Your Ride
While riding on the road, you can encounter various elements such as debris, ice, gravel, litters, and so forth, which could end up resulting in potential hazards to you on the road. Ideally, cyclists should stay focused on their surrounding environment to avoid collision with some elements that could lead to loss of control during your ride.
Whenever you want to cross a railroad track, you should do so at the appropriate angle. Desist from the use of headphones while riding as these things could lead to distraction. Keep your hands at alert on your brakes as there may need to use them suddenly. With these measures, you are able to prevent yourself against the potential hazards of cycling on the road.
Make Yourself Visible
Interestingly, many state laws have been designed to aid the safety of road bikers. And one of these laws is the aspect of headlights. For instance, in the United States, some states have made it mandatory for cyclists to use white headlight that could be clearly visible from about 500 ft away while the rear reflector light should be visible from about 300 ft away.
However, if your state hasn’t made it mandatory for you to use headlights, it still remains a good practice to be emulated. In the evening during foggy road conditions, ensure that you put on bright clothing that will make you visible in the eyes of drivers and other road users. With this, drivers will be able to keep their paths while on the road.
Do Not Ride Without Helmets
This should remain the first rule when it comes to road biking. Even if you are only riding a street or two around your neighborhood, you should know that the foremost ethics of biking is the use of helmets.
A helmet is the only accessory that protects you against some form of devastating experiences whenever there is an occurrence of an accident. To say at least, injuries on the head is the leading cause of death associated with bicycle accidents. While riding, you should not forget your helmet. It should be well fitted snugly on your head with an appropriately tightened chin strap.
Do Not Assume Drivers See You
While cycling on the road, you should never assume that drivers see you. Whenever you can, you should always endeavor to make eye contacts with drivers and other road users. Motorists do not often be on the lookout for cyclists, but you should be proactive enough in order to make yourself visible.
Furthermore, ensure that you ride defensively in order not to end up in need of a car accident lawyers. Ensure that you strictly abide by the rules of the lane marks whenever you want to turn and use the appropriate signals to alert other road users of your intention especially drivers.
More so, you should be able to look beyond your shoulder without swerving or losing control with the aim of considering your surroundings. If you find this difficult, then consider the installation of a rearview mirror on your handlebar. It will assist you a lot when it comes to serving.
Now, we have been able to discuss some of the do’s and don’ts of bicycling. Additionally, ensure that you maintain your bicycle. This implies that you check the tire pressure and brakes at all times. More so, ensure that you always go along with emergency repair kits. It will help a lot whenever unwanted circumstances arise.
