Home | Why Cycle? For transportation, health and fitness, pleasure, adventure or for the sport; there are many reasons why people bicycle today. Bicycle Transportation Bicycle transportation in North Carolina has increased dramatically over the past years. The first intra-state bicycle route system was developed in
North Carolina by the Division of Bicycle and Pedestrian Transportation the oldest such state office in the nation.
Sharing the road Bicycles are vehicles and should act and be treated as such on the roadways. Laws that apply to motorists apply to cyclists as well; ride on the right, with traffic.
Signals and signs Obey all stop signs, traffic lights and lane markings. Look before you change lanes or signal a turn; indicate your intention, then act. Identify hazards and adjust your position on the roadway accordingly.
Safety If the lane is too narrow or you are going the same speed as traffic, take the lane. Be visible and predictable at all times; wear bright clothing and signal turns. Always wear a helmet to protect your head in the event of a crash.
Route choice Consider distance, traffic volume, road width and condition, and terrain. Some routes may be a bit longer but much more pleasant; carry a map for detours. Allow extra time for a new route; try riding different routes on the weekend.
Bike parking Try to find an indoor parking area in your office or building in which to keep your bike. Lock your bike to an immovable object in a highly visible area out of the elements. Ask your employer or building owner to provide safe, covered parking.
Clothing optional If you have a short commute, ride in your work clothes at a relaxed pace. Cycling specific clothing is an option for longer, more strenuous rides. Use waterproof and breathable fabrics to stay comfortable and dry.
Showering Showering should not be necessary in the morning when it is cool outside. Many workplaces have showers located in the building; inquire about access. Some health clubs offer shower-only memberships for a few dollars a month.
The Bike Any bike that you feel comfortable on will work; make sure it is in good working order. Consider weather protection such as fenders and a rack for carrying capacity. Invest in a rechargeable headlight; helmet and handlebar mounts are available.
Maintenance Have your bike checked over by your local bike shop. Learn how to repair a flat, fix a chain and inspect your brake pads for wear. Replace tires when they are worn out; use tire liners if you experience excessive flats.
Weather Heat, cold and precipitation require special preparation for you and your bike. Fenders and rain gear keep out the rain; use layers and wind proofing for cold days. Some cycling-specific gear can provide relief on hot days; it keeps you cool and dry.
Copyright © 2001 League of American Bicyclists.
Picking a bike You can commute on any bike as long as it is good working order. Road bikes, mountain bikes, hybrids, cross bikes, touring bikes all work great. The bike should reflect your riding style; relax on a 3 speed or hammer a road bike.
Carrying capacity A rear rack and panniers, a basket on the front or a backpack all work well. Panniers are most expensive and are usually waterproof; use them if you have them. Baskets don't carry much and backpacks can make you sweat through your clothing.
Fenders Full fenders are recommended; use quick release or standard bolt-on style. The roadways can be wet from other things besides rain. Fenders also keep dirt and mud off of your clothes.
Lights Headlights are mandatory at night; white in front with a rear reflector in back. A red light on the rear of the bike increases visibility at night. Check batteries and replace them as soon as the light begins to dim.
Safety Always wear a helmet while riding your bike no matter what. A helmet is your last line of defense against injury in an accident. Prevent injury by knowing the rules of the road and acting predictably. Riding in Rain and Darkness
Tools Bring only tools that you know how to use; a pump is a necessity. Prepare for breakdowns with regular inspections of your bike. Carry a multi-tool with hex wrenches, screwdriver, chain tool; know how to use them.
Spare parts Carry a spare tube and patch kit at all times; keep another spare at work. Know the condition of your bike and its parts by inspecting it regularly. Keep a few spare parts that need regular replacement at work.
Lock Use a high-security U-lock; don't wait until your bike is stolen to invest in a good lock. Lock your bike to an immovable object in a highly visible area. Secure both wheels and other components if they can be easily removed.
Flat prevention Tire liners and flat resistant tires go a long way to help decrease flat tire occurrence. Replace tires when they are worn out; check pressure with a gauge. Familiarize yourself with how much air your tires lose each week.
Reflection Make sure that motorists, cyclists and pedestrians can see you at night. Wear bright or reflective clothing; apply reflective tape to helmet and bike. Ankle straps keep pant legs out of the chain and usually have a reflective strip.
Copyright © 2001 League of American Bicyclists.
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