Bike Safety Tips

Riding a bike is the perfect time to enjoy the long sunny days and all the beauty of San Diego. Here are some easy and quick bike safety tips on how to stay safe when cruising the streets on two wheels.

#1: Wear a Helmet

Before pedaling around town, make sure you have a helmet to prevent head injuries in case of an accident. Helmets come in a variety of sizes, colors, and comfort levels, so you can choose one that fits you best at a local bike shop such as North Park Bikes, Uptown Bicycles, or MJ’s Cyclery. (To find a bike shop near you, check out this interactive map from the San Diego County Bike Coalition.)

#2: Be Visible

Whether riding at night or during the day, wear brightly colored clothes to be easily seen by drivers. If it’s necessary to bike at night, make sure you have reflectors and night lights on the front and rear of your bike. While they come in an assortment of colors and styles, the best lights for your bike are red or white flashing lights because they make it easier to be seen at night.

#3: Check Your Bike

Before you leave the house, it’s always a good idea to perform a series of checks on your bicycle to ensure:

• Your tires are inflated enough (They should feel hard!)
• Your brakes are tightened
• Your chain is running smoothly. If it is rusty and making noise, it may need to be oiled. If your bike isn’t meeting these requirements, take it to your local bike shop before riding.

#4: Be Aware of Your Surroundings

Any time you’re on your bike, staying aware of your surroundings is critical to avoid preventable accidents. Don’t ride with headphones in or while you’re on the phone. Watch for road hazards such as glass, potholes, rocks, or animals, which can startle you.

#5: Know the Rules

Before heading out on your biking quest, make sure you know the laws for riding a bike in San Diego. For example, if you plan on riding your bike on the road, make sure to be with the flow of traffic and not against it. If you plan on riding your bike downtown, don’t ride on the sidewalk. Find more local regulations for safe bike riding in San Diego here.

Practicing these bike safety tips will allow you to have a great time while keeping you and your family safe. To learn more about National Bike Month visit bikeleague or sdbikecoalition to learn more about local opportunities to get involved in National Bike Month in San Diego.