5
N
ight Riding and Poor Visibility
Riding at dawn, dusk, during poor visibility or night
riding is extremely dangerous. Your reflectors are
not a substitute for required bike lights. Motorists
and pedestrians may not be able to see a bicyclist
during poor visibility conditions. Consult your local
bike shop for night riding equipment if you choose
to accept the risk of riding during these conditions.
Unsafe Riding
While not all accidents can be avoided the list below
outlines
a few examples of things
that
can decrease
your risk of serious injury or death.
- Pay attention and avoid distractions while riding
- Maintain both hands on the handlebars at all times
- Avoid bike stunts and/or aggressive riding
- When carrying gear make sure it is securely at-
tached to your bike and/or rack.
- Never strap or latch any item to your bike in an area
not designed to carry gear.
- Only carry gear on your racks and within the
standard weight limits of the rack.
- Do not ride while intoxicated or using medications
which might make you drowsy.
- Never carry a passenger while riding
-
Avoid riding in mud if possible, mud may cause loss
of traction resulting in loss of control of your bike.
-
WARNING
!
Riding a bicycle in low light conditions without
proper lighting and reflectors attached to your bike
impairs your ability to see and be seen by other
motorist or pedestrians. This greatly increases the
chance you will be involved in an accident that
could lead to serious injury or death. Use a light
on the front and rear of your bike and be sure all
reflectors are in place before riding in low light
conditions.
WARNING
!
Certain types of riding significantly increase
stresses
and abnormal wear and tear on your bike.
These are
just a few types of riding that can adversely affect your
safety and lifespan of your bicycle and components.
-
competition or stunt riding
-
downhill racing/riding
-
jumping your bike
Avoid riding too fast
Higher speeds create higher risks and greater forces
in the event of a crash. At higher speeds, it is more
likely that wheels will slip, or that a small bump can
create a significant impact to your frame or fork.
Keep your bicycle under control at all times. For
children, the limit of speed for safe riding is much
lower, so parents should strictly enforce this rule.
Off-Road or Backcountry Riding
Always use special care when riding off-road or in
remote areas. If you are unfamiliar with off-road
riding start out on moderate terrain and slowly build
your skills until you are confident you can ride on
trails and unimproved roads. Remember, keep your
bike under control at all times and never attempt an
obstacle that is beyond your skill level. Riding at an
increased speed in rough conditions greatly increase
your risk of serious injury or death.
Special Considerations for Remote Areas
- While riding on rough terrain even if a short
distance share your destination and route with
a
nother
adult
- Never ride alone in remote areas
- Carry a signaling device such as a whistle, cell
phone, or 2-way radio
- Take identification and emergency food and drink
- Wear appropriate clothing and safety gear for
the
type
of riding you plan
- Carry a first aid kit
Respect local regulations and rules / Private Property
Remember each area in which you may ride your
bike may have specific regulations. Always respect
private property and never trespass. Respect the
rights of others with whom may be sharing the trail
with you; ie: hikers, cyclists, equestrians. Stay on your
designated trail and do not destroy vegetation and
minimize your impact on the environment.
If you
are unsure of your local laws or regulations please
contact your local conversation officer before riding
on designated wildlife areas
