How to Do the Slowing Down Bike Signal

Most motorists have difficulty assessing the speed of bikes and scooters on city streets. A truck driver is traveling at a higher velocity and sits at a higher level than a bike. This vantage point makes it tough to deal with bikes weaving in and out of traffic. You need to do the slowing down bike signal to help motorists deal with changes in the speed of your bike.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Bicycle

1. Monitor the location of traffic before you do a slowing down bike signal. You need to use the arm that is located nearest the line of vision for motorists behind your bike for an effective signal.
2. Maintain your bike speed until you do the slowing down bike signal to act responsibly in traffic. Bicyclists who fail to use the signal before they slow down may be responsible for accidents and collisions.
3. Tighten your grip on the bike handles with your opposite hand before you do a slowing down bike signal. You should hold the handle bar instead of the center of the handles to keep consistent control over your bike.
4. Thrust your signal hand downward to begin a slowing down bike signal. Your arm should be angled halfway between a resting position at your waist and an extended position perpendicular to your body.
5. Use your palm as a part of your slowing down signal to help manage traffic on your rear. Your palm should be unclenched and facing motorists behind you to help get attention as you approach a slower part of the street.
6. Allow your bike to slow down gradually after you have initiated the slowing down bike signal. You should ease off of the pedals instead of applying brakes to save your brake pads from excessive wear.
7. Investigate street conditions before you bring your signal hand back to your handle bars. A pothole or debris signal may be needed after you use the slowing down signal if you find that traffic has slowed due to road hazards.
8. Practice your slowing down bike signal in areas with low traffic before you head into an urban environment. A daily ride around the block will get you accustomed to slowing down while using the correct signal.

Tips & Warnings

• Inspect your bicycle brakes before each trip to ensure responsive braking during your daily commute. You need to be able to slow down quickly to prevent complacency by motorists. You can ask for assistance from a local bike shop on catching the warning signs of worn brakes.