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Riding by the Rules

Related Resources
 
dad helping son put on a bike helmetProper safety equipment is essential to bicycling.
 
The following tips will help your child ride by the rules.
 
The Right Fit is Important


Bicycle

 

An important part of safe bicycling is making sure your bike is the right size for your body.

 

Learning to ride on a bike that is not fitted correctly can cause a loss of balance and control.

 

The bike is the right fit if:

 
  1. The rider can place the balls of both feet on the ground when sitting on the seat.
  2. There is at least a one-inch space between the rider and the crossbar when the rider is straddling the center bar with both feel flat on the ground.
  3. The rider can comfortably reach the handlebars when sitting on the seat.
  4. Older riders should be able to apply enough pressure for handlebar brakes. 
Helmets
 
It is important for all bicycle riders to wear a properly fitted helmet. The helmet should fit squarely on the top of the head, covering the top of the forehead. The strap should be comfortably snug and should hold the helmet in place on the wearer's head without moving or sliding. Learn more about Bicycle Helmet Safety.
 
Safety Concerns
 
Riding Gear
 
Wearing the appropriate clothing when biking is very important:
  1. Wear bright-colored clothing and reflective clothing at night so you are easy to see.
  2. Do not wear loose clothing that may catch in the bike chain or wheels.
  3. Always wear closed-toe shoes to avoid foot injury. 
Young Children
 
Special precautions apply to younger bicyclists. The following are a few important precautions:
  1. It is important to be firm about wearing a helmet from the start, even on tricycles, scooters and when passengers are on parents' bikes.
  2. Children under 12 months and older than four years should not ride as passengers on parents' bikes.
  3. Riders under age nine should be accompanied by an adult and should not ride on the road.
  4. Young children and inexperienced riders should walk their bikes across the street.
  5. Stop and look both ways when crossing a street, and cross only at a corner - not mid-block.
  6. Do not ride after dark. 
Adults and Teenagers
 
Boys ages 11 to 15 years-old have the highest rates of injuries on bicycles. They also take the most risks. These riders should always:
  1. Obey all traffic signals and laws.
  2. Come to a complete stop at all intersections, both marked and unmarked.
  3. Always ride with the traffic, not against it.
  4. Use a bike headlight and reflectors when riding at night.
  5. Before turning, look all ways and always use hand signals. 
Hand Signals
 
If you ride your bike on the street, it is important to learn the rules of the road. Proper hand signals must be used to let drivers know your intent.
 
  1. Right turn - Place your left, upper arm straight out and parallel to the road. Keep your forearm and hand straight up and perpendicular to the road or your right arm extended straight out parallel to the road.
  2. Left turn - Place your left arm straight out and parallel to the road.
  3. Braking - Place your left, upper arm straight out and parallel to the road. Put your forearm and hand straight down and perpendicular to the road.