Be safe on your bike!

Spring has sprung! And with it you're likely to be headed out on all the local trails the area has to offer. If you're a cyclist, now is the time to make sure your bike is ready to go, and you've brushed up on riding safety essentials.

Maintenance

Fernando Tapia, Master Mechanic at Niwot Wheel Works, says that if your bike hasn't been used over the winter, it's a good idea to get a tuneup. "Get air in the tires, lube on the chain and ensure that everything is in good working order." If this kind of bike maintenance isn't something you're comfortable doing, take your bike to a local bike mechanic. Before heading out on any ride, remember the A, B, C's...air, brakes and chain. Make sure your tires are properly inflated, both front and back brakes are working, and that your chain is attached and properly lubed. Also check that your wheels are firmly attached, and your handlebars aren't loose. There are a number of resources available online to ensure your bike is in good shape including this pre-ride inspection information from REI: https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/pre-ride-inspection.html.

Safety

The first thing to consider with bike safety is a good-fitting helmet. Eric Bergeson, the owner of Niwot Wheel Works, said, "Make sure the helmet isn't too old. They age, and as a result can be less effective." Tapia added, "If your helmet has sustained an impact, don't use it." You should get a new helmet in order to make sure it still protects properly.

Make sure you know the basic cycling rules of the road and trail. Obey traffic signs and always signal your turns. Bergeson said the "official" cycling hand signals aren't necessary as many people don't understand them. A simple indication with your arm as to which way you're turning should suffice.

It's important to be visible. Wear bright clothing and utilize a blinking rear light even during the day. "Reflectors just don't do it," Bergeson said. He emphasized that the cyclist is the one that needs to be most concerned about safety. "You're the small one. When you come to a stop sign, look drivers in the eye. Are they looking at you? Are they giving you some sort of indication that they see you? That they know you're moving?" Remember, you're sharing the road with vehicles and other cyclists.

Planning is another safety essential that is often overlooked.

Bergeson and Tapia both emphasized that if you're not an experienced cyclist you might want to consider off-street riding. Especially since, in Tapia's words, "We can, around here. There are so many alternatives to road riding." But trail riders still have "rules of the road" to follow.

"On a trail, you still need to be aware of what's coming up," Bergeson said. Because the trail conditions aren't always consistent, be sure to look out for loose gravel, holes and washboard roads that could cause a fall. And because many dirt roads or trails may either be open to traffic or may cross streets at some point, be sure you're still aware of cars around you.

When riding on trails also used by runners and walkers, be sure to be courteous to others. Bergeson said, "You should always let people know you're coming. A bell or a quiet 'on the left' works. You want to let the walker know you're there, but you don't want to startle them."

Remember that you can certainly see the person you're coming up on, but the runner or walker may not be able to hear you coming. Dogs may also be on the trail and they can be unpredictable. Bergeson said he's seen any number of accidents due to a cyclist getting tangled up in a dog leash.

Lastly, don't forget the basics. Don't speed, be a courteous rider, stay hydrated, have a little food with you and whenever possible have your phone with you in case of an emergency. And most of all, have fun! Cycling is a great way to see the sights and get some exercise!

Click on the links below for some great cycling resources and a map of Boulder County trails:

Bicycle Colorado: https://www.bicyclecolorado.org/

Boulder County Trail Map: https://assets.bouldercounty.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/bike-map-2019.pdf