Riders
- Be alert and prepare for your ride.
- Always wear a helmet and bright, reflective clothing. Your safety will increase the more visible you are to other bicyclists and cars.
- Bring layers and waterproof, breathable clothing. The roads and trails can be unpredictable along with the weather.
- An extra pair of socks and shoes can be a life saver.
- It is better to leave your house feeling cold. Your body will warm up as you ride. Your sweat can make you colder.
- Plan your route ahead of time. Long commute? Bring your bike on the bus or light rail.
- See and be seen. Have both a front light and a back light of at least 500 lumens for the front light and 100 lumens for your rear light.
- Make sure your bike is in safe, working order. Regularly check your chains, tires, brakes and lights.
- Running your tires at lower pressure can provide more traction when the trails are icy, and snow covered. Consider switching to tires with better grip.
- Carry a basic bicycle repair kit and learn about bike tuning.
- Be considerate of others on the road, path and trail. Give an audible signal when passing pedestrians.
- Fill your water bottle with warm water or have an insulated water bottle as it can freeze as you ride.
- Make eye contact with drivers when crossing intersections and use hand signals when turning.
- Register your bike and learn your city and county’s local biking ordinances.
- Learn how to lock up your bike securely.
Keep electric bike batteries warm by parking your bike inside or removing the battery and bringing it with you. Cold temperatures drain the battery quickly. *
Check with building codes for guidance on where to store bikes with lithium-ion batteries.
Drivers
- Be alert and considerate when sharing the road.
- Keep an eye out for reflectors and lights on sidewalks as you might not see bicyclists when the sun goes down.
- Remember that bicyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as motorists.
- Be aware at intersections for bicyclists who might be crossing.
- Know your weight advantage. A car can weigh two tons or more, while the average bike, with rider, is about 180 pounds.
- Obey speed limits and other road rules.
- On snowier days, take it slow and be aware that you might be sharing the road with bicyclists when sidewalks are snow covered.
- Signal your turns and watch for hand signals from cyclists.
- Check before you exit your car to avoid hitting a cyclist with your door.