Spring has finally arrived, and it is time to get out of the house and get moving! One of the best ways to get great exercise, enjoy the fresh air, and spend time together as a family is to go for a bike ride. Whether you pack up and go to Palo Duro Canyon, head to the park, or take advantage of the City’s new bike trails, be prepared and keep the following safety issues in mind before you get rolling:
• Keep your bike maintained. Check the tire pressure, chain, handlebar height, brakes, and seat condition and height.
• Always wear a helmet that is brightly colored, well ventilated, fits correctly, and meets Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) standards.
• Wear brightly colored, lightweight clothes. Make sure your pant legs aren’t too loose so they don’t get caught in the chain while riding. Never ride barefoot!
• Obey all traffic rules and pay attention to signs and signals. Never ride against traffic, and stay in designated bike lanes when you can. Avoid riding at dawn, dusk or night when it is harder for drivers to see you. Always ride in single file when in a group.
Proper Hand Signals
Always use your left arm for all hand signals.
• Left turn: After checking behind you, hold your arm straight out to the left and ride forward slowly.
• Stop: After checking behind you, bend your elbow, pointing your arm downward in an upside down “L” shape and come to a stop.
• Right turn: After checking behind you, bend your elbow, holding your arm up in an “L” shape, and ride forward slowly. Or, hold your right arm straight out from your side.
