Bicycle Safety 101: Being Visible

One of the most important things when riding on the road is being visible. Safety first! *push nerd glasses back up on nose* You might end up looking or feeling like a giant target, but until drivers become used to bicycles on the road and/or enough bicycle facilities are built, making yourself easier to see can actually help your create a safer riding environment for yourself. You can be more visible by considering the following ideas:

Wear brightly colored clothing. Dig out that old bright orange or yellow shirt you tuck in the back of your closet that clashes with everything, opt for some snazzy neon yellow bike gear or head to the thrift store to buy something bright. Whatever you decide to wear when you ride, opt for bright, bold colors. You will be more visible at dawn and dusk, in rain and when it's cloudy. You will also just be more visible on the road and stand out from the colors of road-side buildings, sidewalks and other traffic. You may feel like you are bold and bright - but, that's because you are. *wink*

Excellent Red Rear Light

Use reflective and light equipment. This is essential! Not only because when you ride at night it's a good idea, but its also a state law (in South Carolina, you must have a front white and rear red light when riding at night). The white front light may or may not provide enough light for you to see the road. It should have enough power to help you be seen as you ride along your way. Even though I have a bright front light, I don't feel comfortable using as my "driving" headlight. I opt for roads and paths that are well-lit, that way I can see any potholes, cracks or obstacles in my path. The red rear light is key creating a presents to any traffic that's traveling with or behind you. If motorists or other cyclists can see you as they approach, then there will be more time for them to adjust and react to you appropriately (slow down, move over, etc.). Also consider having reflective items that have reflective materials like a vest, jacket, shirt, shoes and even tape. Bike wrappers even provide a way for a bike frame to be reflective.

Create a sense of personal space when you ride. Be a confident, but not overly aggressive rider. Body language can speak volumes. It can convey a sense of calm, cockiness, arrogance or respect. When riding, consider the kind of bicyclists you'd like to ride with or drive near and then be that cyclist. You can also do things like take the lane, stop a stop signs and signal lights and ride with traffic to help you create personal space and convey confidence. When you are confident in your own skills and place on the road, a driver is more likely to respond with the same kind of behavior, giving you respect and your own space. And if this doesn't happen immediately when you ride, be patient. Drivers are learning and adapting how to respond to bicycle traffic, as there weren't so many (of us) even 5 years ago on the road.

Follow the rules of the road. Common sense stuff. I'm not going to go into too much detail on this one. For more info, you can read another post about it here.

Consider these bike riding safety tips to help increase your visibility. Good things to consider and put into practice.

Bicycle Safety 101: Cyclists, think like Drivers. Drivers, think like Cyclists.

Share the In a previous Bicycle Safety 101 post, I mentioned the that cyclists and drivers should know the rules of the road. Ignorance of the law doesn't exempt us from following it (or get us out of any tickets). But in case you don't have time to take a bicycle safety class or work on memorizing the laws, there is another way to learn how to "share the road." Let's start with addressing the cyclists.

Cyclists - Most of you have driven a car a one point or another. You know the basics: stop at stop signs, pedestrians have the right of way, give plenty of time and signal before turning, don't run red lights, dump the road rage, drive with traffic, be aware of your surroundings and always be on the look out for potential crashes that can be avoided. Follow the rules, and you'll be a safe driver. So, when you're on your bike, things aren't much different: don't red run lights, stop at stop signs, peds have the right of way, etc. Generally, following these traffic safety basics will provide for safe experience on the road, and lessen the road rage drivers feel towards you. (Photo credit here.)

One of the biggest issues drivers have with cyclists is disregard for the law. Every time you coast through a red light, weave in and out of traffic lanes or run a stop sign, biking as a means of transportation is taken less seriously. I don't like stopping at stop signs - Stopping and starting every few blocks in an urban neighborhood is a royal pain. Rolling through that rural blinking red light is very tempting. - but they are there for a reason. As a cyclist, recognize that reason and respect it. If ya don't, ya may not get respect. So, cyclists, think like drivers: follow the rules.

Drivers - You are the majority.  In cars that are fast, convenient, good for hauling lots of people and their stuff over long distances, you rule the road. With your 1 ton mobile shelters, you win in any crash with a pedestrian, motorcycle, moped or bicycle. You had to take training (perhaps many years ago) to get a license to operate your vehicle. You know the rights and wrongs, the do's and don'ts of operating on the road. You set the tone of roadway interactions for all users.

Think about that. Depending on how you act - and react - to any situation, you will contribute to creating an environment of roadway safety or danger, calm or calamity, inclusion or dominance. Think how cyclists feel riding near speeding tons of metal, glass and plastic on a hard, rough surface with only their clothes and helmet to protect them. Combine that vulnerability with a distracted, road-raged driver. It ain't a pretty picture. (An extreme photo.)

You also probably like it when there is less traffic. If there are safe biking conditions, there will be opportunities for your neighbors to hop onto a bike - and out of their car - resulting in less car traffic for you. (Or, maybe you'll even consider doing a few trips a week by bike.) Safe biking conditions include:  designated bikeways/lanes/paths/shared roadways, lower speed limits, drivers who don't run cyclists to the curb or cut them off. Support the development of these things, and it'll be a better, safe place for the community. So, drivers, think like cyclists: be aware of your surroundings.

Consider these things - talk about 'em. It's really important if communities in the Upstate want people to use the bikeways that they're building. And then there's the whole bike feasibility argument, too - no one wants a bike lane to no where. But, here's the take away message:

Create safe, convenient roadways. Work together. Cyclists, think like drivers. Drivers, think like cyclists.

Bicycle Safety 101: Back to School, Review the Rules

August brings about school, and living near Clemson University, one can't help but notice the influx of 20,000 people into small-town life. The return of students means an increase in traffic. Most students will be driving, some catching the bus and a few riding bikes. I would like to see more on bikes...but that is for another post.

If you're new to riding your bike to get you from point A to point B (also known as commuter biking) or its been awhile since your last ride, reviewing a few safety tips will make the experience calmer, safer and more enjoyable. It's also helpful if your car-driving friends know these rules. Cyclists have the state-legislated right to "share the road" (as many signs on the roadways point out), and if all road users come to know what to expect when they see a cyclist (assuming the cyclist follows the rules), the road becomes a safer place for everyone.

Enough of the PSA (public service announcements) schtuff. Here are a few of the major rules that should be followed when riding on the road:

1. Ride with traffic. Maybe when you were younger you were taught to ride against traffic so cars could see you and you could see the cars. This is no longer the recommend way to ride. Riding with traffic is actually safer because you are acting like a car on the road. This helps cars to better anticipate where you might turn, stop or otherwise maneuver. Make sure you ride with traffic at all times (unless otherwise noted or riding in a "contra flow" lane).
2. Ride on the street. Not on the sidewalk. Though you may feel safer on the sidewalk, it's actually more dangerous. Folks driving cars don't expect to see bikes on the sidewalk. They don't expect them, and, therefore, don't actually "see" them. When you come to a cross street and just ride on through, you're putting yourself at greater risk for being involved in a bike crash.
3. Obey all traffic laws. If cyclists, especially commuters, want respect from drivers, we have to earn it. Cars must follow all the rules of the road. So must bikers. If we want to keep our rights, we must respect the rules. That means stop at every stop sign, obey every traffic light and road sign, signal before performing a maneuver (aka making a turn) and be courteous to others (cars, trucks, pedestrians) around you.
4. Wear a helmet. For safety's sake! Might mess up that 'do, but your brain is worth it!
5. Wear lights at night, dawn, dusk or in bad weather:  White for the front and Red for the back. Wearing lights at night is state law, and it makes any cyclist much easier to be seen. There are all kinds of different types that you can buy at your local bike shop or on-line. 
6. Be assertive. "Take the Lane." This is the idea that if a cyclist needs to make a turn, merge into a lane or make some other maneuver in traffic that they act as boldly as a car, actually taking the lane. Does this take practice, courage and a bit of daring? Yes, and others riding in traffic around you will feel more comfortable if you act with purpose.
7. Be courteous to pedestrians (and others). Good biking karma is a good thing to cultivate. Always yield to pedestrians (it's also state law). Give the "thank you" wave to any auto that waves you through. And treat others how you'd like to be treated.

If you decide to take to the road, just remember a few of these tips. You can also review the state rules here, and the biking policies at Clemson University here. No matter if you're in elementary school, high school, college or life-long learner, in the Upstate or out-of state, avid biking commuter or car-driver, knowing the rules of the road for cyclist will help create a safer environment for all. Got a favorite tip or rule to add? Post 'em below!

Bicycle Safety 101: Fixin' Flats

I had the worst luck with my bike tires last week. My back tire had gone flat, and I finally got the nerve to fix it. (About a month ago, I tried to fix my back tire, but things did not go so well. So this would be bike flat is #2 in a month.) After fixing it on Sunday, I rode on Monday. By Tuesday morning, it had gone flat. (Flat #3) After only a 6 mile bike ride. I decided I needed some expert advice, so I sought out Derrick at Clemson Cyclery.

Since this was my second flat with a new tube in short period of time, I was extremely frustrated. Derrick runs the bike shop, and had offered to give me a few tips and pointers about flats, enabling me to fix 'em and get back on my bike asap.

After talking with him, he reassured me that this happens from time to time - having many flats in a short period of time. And to take it in stride. It happens to all bike riders. Keeping that in mind, I learned some really great things from him.

When it comes to flats, a cyclist can do some detective work and have a good idea why the tube popped. (Of course, make sure that you also have the right bike tools to take apart your machine. Park Tools is one of the best, and they have how-to guides available.):

• If the tube has a puncture on the top, debris has penetrated through the actual bike tire into the tube. Run your finger carefully along the inside of the tire, feeling for any rough spots. The tire should be smooth, so if you feel anything, no matter how small, that is probably the cause of the puncture. If you can carefully remove the debris, your tire will still be ridable.  (This is what actually happened to me. It was fixed, and the tire was still safe to use).
• If the tube has a puncture on the bottom, exam the rim for any issues or rough spots. The rim should be covered in "tape." If the tape is old or you see anything suspicious, purchasing new rim tape and installing it will fix most problems.
• Exam the sidewalls and tire tread. Tires can last a while, however, they still need to be replaced from time to time. If the sidewalls or the tire tread looks worn, this could be the cause of your flat. If you can see through the tire, it's time for a new one.

Once you have figured out what caused the puncture, make sure the patch job is top notch or buy a new tube. Just follow the instructions that came with your patch kit and cover extra space around the puncture to ensure a good patching job. There's not a rule of thumb about how many times a bike tube can be patched before it's not good any more. It's all about how old (as in miles or years) the tube is, your comfort level, your flat fixin' skills, etc. So, I went home that evening, and fixed bike flat #3.

Thursday morning, getting ready to ride to work, I came out to another flat (#4). I grumbled, but also chuckled. At least I felt better about the situation now having a little bit more information on fixing a flat tire (tube). I finally got a chance to fix #4 on Sunday. Comes to find out, my original patch job was now leaking. Since I didn't feel comfortable patching a patch or repatching it, I just scrapped it and put a new tube on all together.

I am happy to report that my bike tire this morning was full, and I got to ride to work. I hope this whole fixing a flat is behind me - at least for a while. Happy Bike to Work Week!

Bicycle Safety 101: Spring Tune Up

In hopes of providing a bit of bicycle safety and education, I'm going to start a new series on this blog: Bicycle Safety 101. This will be a series where posts will cover topics like riding with traffic, bicycle laws and other correct and good things that may help make your ride safer. Having great bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure is one thing, but educating users – pedestrian, cyclists and automobile drivers – enhances the experience for everyone.

The Spring Tune Up. Ready to ride? Well, maybe you are, but your bike may not be! Before you get out on that first 10+ mile ride, make sure to look over your machine. Test the brakes, air pressure in the tires, and oil your chain. Take a test ride around the block. Look at the condition of your tires for any cracks. Check your spokes – if they are coming lose, they'll need tightening (probably best by a mechanic). Check out your helmet (because you should always wear one!) for any dings, cracks and for overall condition. If it's looking a little used...it's probably a safe bet that it's time to buy a new one soon. If you have kids, you may have to raise the seat if they have grown.

If the bike has been sitting idle for more than a couple of months, I highly suggest getting a thorough tune-up. If you're a handy-person, or determined to become a BIY (Bike-It Yourself) person, use a reference guide and give her a good once over! And don't forget to search You Tube for some great videos. If that's not your speed, there are many cycle shops that can provide a variety of tune-ups. Check out Clemson Cyclery, Sunshine Cycle Shop, The Great Escape or just Google "bicycle repair, sc" to find your shop of choice.  

It's always good to have chain lube, an air pump, an Alan wrench/hex key and a ratchet set handy at home for simple repairs, too. Investing in these tools will go a long way in your biking budget and simplifying your life. And if you're not sure how to use these, talk to your bike mechanic the next time you have a tune-up. S/he should be happy to give you a few “tools of the trade” that will make your biking experience better.