Steps to Take before You Ride Your Bike
- Wear a helmet that fits properly. For more information, go to “Easy Steps to Properly Fit a Bicycle Helmet.”
- Make sure the bicycle is in good working order. Check all parts to make sure they are secure and work as they should. Check the tire pressure and the brakes.
- Adjust the bicycle to fit you. Stand over the bicycle. There should be 1 to 2 inches between you and the top tube (bar) if using a road bike and 3 to 4 inches if a mountain bicycle. The seat should be level front to back. The seat height should be adjusted to allow a slight bend at the knee when the leg is fully extended. The handlebar height should be at the same level with the seat.
- Wear neon, fluorescent, or other bright colors when riding day or night. Also wear something that reflects light, such as reflective tape or markings, or flashing lights. Good colors for your clothing are bright yellow or bright lime green. Red appears black in fading light, so it should not be worn once the sun starts going down.
For more information, please see our bicycle safety booklet.
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