Cycling is often associated with a lean body, increased energy, and better health. Compared to other activities, it puts less stress on the joints and has a lower risk of injury. Plus, it’s good for your brain, heart, lungs, and muscles.
Thin fun yet challenging activity may reduce heart disease risk by a whopping 25%. In the long run, it may protect against heart attacks, high blood pressure, obesity, and diabetes.
Despite these perks, road bicycle riding isn’t entirely safe. In 2018, about 800 Americans have lost their lives and 289,076 have been injured while on a bike.
Luckily, most injuries can be prevented. Simple measures, like wearing a helmet and using hand signals, can help you stay safe and avoid accidents.
Interested to find out more? Here are eight tips on how to ride a road bike safely, no matter your age or experience.
1. Choose the Right Bike Size
Riding a bike that’s either too big or too small can lead to injuries.
A bigger bicycle isn’t necessarily safer. On the contrary, you may find it difficult to handle and lose control over it.
One that’s too small may cause discomfort and put stress on your back and knees, keeping you distracted.
Bicycles are usually measured by the length of the seat tube. The problem is that each brand has different standards.
Your best bet is to head over to a physical store and test different bikes or consult a bike salesperson.
2. Double-Check Your Bike before Each Use
Your bike has dozens of small pieces that can become loose after a ride. If that happens, you may end up with an injury or get in a crash.
As a rule of thumb, check for loose nuts and bolts before each use. Pay special attention to the ones located on the handlebars, wheels, pedals, and seat post.
Also, make sure there is no rattling.
3. Wear a Helmet
Bicycle helmets may lower the risk of head injuries by about 70%.
This piece of equipment could save your life. After all, there’s a reason professional cyclists wear helmets during training and competitions.
If you don’t feel comfortable wearing your helmet, try a different brand or model. There are various types of bike helmets available, and each has distinctive features.
Depending on your needs, you may opt for:
- Road helmets
- Commuter helmets
- Trail helmets
- Enduro helmets
- Bike helmets for children
- Aero road helmets
- Chrono helmets
Enduro helmets, for example, are designed for racing, but they can be worn on the road too. These models are lightweight and have multiple vents.
Road helmets are typically made with EPS foam and have an elongated shape. Some models come in small sizes, appealing to children and teens.
Choose one that stays firmly on your head. A model that’s either too loose or too tight will cause discomfort and distract you from the road.
If you ever get involved in a crash, replace your helmet and contact this bicycle accident attorney.
4. Ride with the Flow of Traffic
Many cyclists believe that it’s safer to ride against traffic. This misconception is responsible for thousands of crashes and deaths.
When you’re riding against traffic, you have little or no time to react if something goes wrong. The next moment, you may find yourself injured on the side of the road or worse, in the middle of the street.
Cyclists are legally required to follow the same rules as drivers. That means riding on the ride side of the road in the same direction as traffic.
5. Make Your Intensions Clear
When you’re driving, you must flash your lights to let others know whether you’re going left, right, or straight ahead.
The same rules apply when you’re on a bike. This time, you must use hand signals to alert drivers and other cyclists on the road of your next move.
Turn left or left only when it’s safe. Consider practicing hands signals on a quiet, small street or in your backyard if you’re a novice cyclist.
6. Wear Bike Safety Gear
Bike safety gear, such as bright or reflective clothing and bike lights, help increase your visibility on the road.
Wear bright or neon colors, especially when riding late at night or in the early morning. At the very least, apply reflective markings or tape on your bike.
Equip your bicycle with rear lights and reflectors when riding in low-light or dark conditions. A bell or horn can help too, especially when you’re riding your bike close to pedestrians.
7. Be Alert at All Times
Riding a road bike isn’t much different from driving a car. You must pay close attention to what’s happening around you, communicate your intentions, and avoid distractions.
Refrain from talking on the phone or texting while on the bike. Wearing headphones isn’t safer either.
These accessories can distract your attention and keep you from hearing approaching cars.
8. Plan Your Route
Make a habit out of planning your route before hitting the road. Avoid peak traffic times and busy streets whenever possible.
Take advantage of modern technology to find the best route. Google Maps and other apps can help you discover the shortest path from point A to point B.
Road Bicycle Riding Doesn’t Have to be Difficult
These rules may seem overwhelming, but they’ll soon become second nature. The more you practice, the better you’ll get at handling your bike on the road.
If you’re still not comfortable with road bicycle riding, consider taking a course. Cycle training isn’t just for kids. It’s a good opportunity to learn the traffic rules, gain confidence, and hone your cycling skills.
In the meantime, check out the rest of our blog for other bike ride tips! We’ll show you how to stay safe in traffic, what kind of bike to choose, and much more.
