10 Rules of Cycling

From one of my favorite blogs, EcoVelo, comes the 10 Rules of Cycling.  As usual, there is some good advice there.

1.The rules of the road are there to foster predictability and communication between road users; do your best to adhere to them.


2.Chart a route that matches your comfort and skill level. If that means going out of your way to ride only on separated bike paths, bike lanes, and quiet back streets, that’s fine; you have nothing to prove.

3.Make eye contact with other road users and ride with an attitude of caution and cooperation. Bicycling is inherently a relatively safe activity, but a bicyclist will never win a physical altercation with a motorist.

4.Bike buses are a good way for commuters to make their presence known on the road. Work to organize group commutes in your neighborhood to increase safety while sharing the joys of bike commuting.

5.Personal motivation is key to long-term bike commuting. When it becomes all too easy to sleep in for an extra hour and take the car, consider changing up your route to add a little spice to your commute. Perhaps plan a stop along the way for a pastry and coffee at your favorite coffee shop.

6.Familiarize yourself with the hand signals commonly used in your area, and always strive to make your intentions known to other road users. Communication is an important component of safe riding.

7.Know the rules of the road and the laws that govern your local jurisdiction. Only by understanding our rights and responsibilities as bicyclists can we effectively exercise our right to be on the road.

8.Educate yourself regarding the important distinction between vehicular and infrastructure based safe-cycling. Each rider has a different comfort level; some will be comfortable taking a lane, while others will choose to ride in bike lanes or on alternate routes.

9.Educate yourself regarding lane placement and be aware of motorists’ blind spots. At intersections, place yourself in a position that prevents motorists from turning right into your path.

10.Make intelligent and informed choices regarding safety equipment. As statistics have shown, bicycling is relatively safe when looked at in comparison to other common activities. Educate yourself, and decide what type of safety equipment is appropriate and reasonable for where and how you ride.