Biking Safely Through Busy City Streets -

Details for Biking Safely Through Busy City Streets

ID:	12451
Author:	jackrlandry
Title:	Biking Safely Through Busy City Streets
Article:	Biking in busy cities can be tough, especially if you are riding during highly trafficked commuter hours. However, commuting on your bike can save you lots of money on gas, while providing you with physical fitness as well. The key to being a successful bike commuter comes in knowing exactly where to ride, and how to negotiate your way safely through traffic. Remember that technically it is not legal to ride on sidewalks. While you may feel safer on the sidewalk since you can avoid cars, you will encounter pedestrians, curbs, trees, vendors, and more. Use you common sense when it comes to which has more risks, and which is the legal place for you to ride. Make sure that you are visible to all those around you at all times. Make sure that your movements are predictable, and obvious. Wearing colors that they can see clearly is very important, such as yellow. Wearing grey and black is dangerous, and can cause you to blend in with your surroundings. You will be nearly invisible in gray, blending in to the street, especially at dusk. Make sure that you are always wearing reflective heard, whether it be a jacket, vest, tape, etc. While you may feel a little silly, it can end up saving your life. Follow all of the rules of the road, and make sure to give advance notice to cars what your movements are going to be. Do not forget that bicycles are classified as vehicles. Thus, they are required to follow the same rules of the road as other vehicles. Be sure to ride on the right hand side of the road, and obey all of the signs. You will need to do the proper hand signals, whenever you are going to turn, or slow down. Memorize them, and use them consistently, and obviously. Next, make sure that you are very careful when it comes to avoiding all of the hazards around you-you must be aware of them at all times. Watch for cars making left turns in front of you, and look for cars pulling out from side streets and driveways. Although these are obvious dangers, cyclists need to be particularly vigilant of them. Sometimes those driving around you may not be able to accurately judge the speed at which you are riding. They do not always pay attention to you, or think about anticipating your movements. Watch for cars that pass you and then make a right turn in front of you. You can easily prevent this from happening by moving to the center of the lane before you encounter an intersection. Sewer gates can be quite dangerous, as sometimes they have bars which run parallel on the curb. The last thing you want is for your front wheel to get caught, and for you to fly over the handlebars. Make sure that you thoroughly check out your route before you ride, so that you know what the hazards are, and you can prepare for them. Also be careful around railroad tracks, as they can be very slipper when they are wet. Make sure that you choose a route that is very well lit, with lots of streetlights. Talk to other people who live near you and like to bike-they will probably know a few good routes for you to take. Use your best instincts and logic as you go-if you begin to feel nervous, it is better to choose a different area or street. Only you know what is going to be safe and comfortable, and you know when something does not feel right. Avoid areas with hills, as they can be dangerous for your speed, and exhausting at the same time. Do not bike if you are feeling tired or sick, as your defenses will probably be down, and you will not be able to react to hazards as quickly. Do not expect cars to be kind and courteous to you on the road. While many are, many do not feel any kind of friendship with bike riders, and see them as a nuisance. If you are as careful as possible, you can be sure that you will have a save commute each day. Keep your bicycle in good condition, and you will be a pro in no time. About the author of this article: jack landry is a personal trainer and has authored hundreds of articles relating to physical training and spinning bikes. he has been a health expert and physical trainer for over 15 years. contact info: jack r. landry jackrlandry@gmail.com http://www.nordictrack.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/category2_-1_10301_12401_19551_y
Category:	Society: Issues
Date:	April 08, 2011 08:03:01 PM

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