How to Practice Cycling Etiquette

By eHow Sports & Fitness Editor

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Review these guidelines before going out on your next ride; they'll help you make the most of it.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

Cleated Bicycle Shoes
Padded Bicycle Shorts
Reflective Clothing
Sunglasses
Bicycle Route Guides
Sunscreen
Reflective Tapes
Bicycle Helmets
Gel-cushioned Bicycle Saddles
Plastic Water Bottles
Children's Bicycles

Step1

Carry personal identification with you.

Step2

Wear your helmet. A ticket from a cop can ruin the best ride.

Step3

Learn and use the appropriate hand signals for turning and stopping.

Step4

Obey all traffic signs, signals and regulations.

Step5

Make eye contact with drivers and pedestrians whose path you will cross. Pedestrians and horses always have the right of way.

Step6

Ride as close to the shoulder as possible when riding on a well-traversed road.

Step7

Allow a wide berth when passing other riders.

Step8

Wear bright clothing when riding during the day to maximize safety.

Step9

Wear reflective clothing when riding at night.

Tips & Warnings

Because riding on a bicycle offers little protection in an accident, use extra caution when riding through busy areas and intersections.

Comments

Anonymous said

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on 9/13/2006 If you ride as far to the right as possible, cars will try to squeeze by you. I've had them pass with literally less than an inch of clearance. If you ride out in the right side car tire track, cars have to pass into the other lane, so they have to wait until there is no oncoming traffic- since now the car has more room, they tend to use it, which will also help to keep your saddle clean! This may be more about safety than etiquette, but an important point nonetheless.

Anonymous said

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on 11/22/2005 If there are parked cars, don't ride so far to the right that a door opening suddenly could hit you. Don't weave in and out between parked cars. Ride a straight line, so motorists can see you. If there isn't enough space in your lane for a car to pass a bicycle safely, it is rude to ride to the right; you're inviting the motorist to get into an accident. It's more considerate to take the lane and pull over periodically to let motorists pass. When you have a choice, seek out roads with wide lanes or multiple lanes to make it easier for cars and bicycles to share the road.