Enjoy Safe Bike Rides

A great way to keep yourself fit, enjoy time outdoors, or simply spend your free time seeing new places – this is what cycling is all about and more. No matter how enjoyable bike riding can be, though, it still entails some hazards, especially since you share the road with motorists, pedestrians, and other cyclists. If you're going for a ride whether to run an errand, commute to your destination, or simply spend your time leisurely outdoors, check out the following tips to help you enjoy safe bike riding experience.

Ensure your bike's condition.

Before you ride your bike, make sure it is safe and efficiently maintained. Check the brakes and the tires for issues, such as holes on your tires and malfunctioning brake levers. Address the issues yourself or have them taken care of by a bike shop personnel before you go out for a ride.

Consider getting a helmet.

Whether you're a recreational rider or a professional one, it's always practical to invest in proper riding gear and equipment. Consider buying a helmet to help you stay protected and safe when you're out riding. Wear a helmet that is of the right fit and ensure that you fasten the straps properly. Also, take good care of your helmet so you can use it longer without minimizing the protection it provides. You can also opt to go for cool helmet colors or personalize it according to your liking.

Put on reflectors and bright clothes.

Whether you're planning a short daytime ride or a leisurely biking in the evening, use proper riding attire and equipment. Invest in reflectors and wear bright-colored clothes so you can be easily seen on the road. While music and riding can be relaxing, try to avoid putting your headphones on: always be aware of your surroundings so you can easily detect possible dangers.

Make sure your bike is of the right fit.

Apart from the pedal, tires, and brakes, you can also guarantee a more enjoyable riding experience by ensuring that your bicycle is of the right height for you. Adjust the seat and the handle bars as deemed necessary so you can fully concentrate on your riding and not on your uncomfortable biking position.

Know road rules.

Stick to your usual routes as much as possible as this minimizes encountering surprises on the road. Surprises can be in the form of road humps, street holes, right of way, as well as common traffic rules. If you’re trying out a new route or terrain, it's always your duty to make sense of road rules and be aware of your surroundings. It's also advisable to ride in the direction of traffic and be on the appropriate side of the road to minimize road accidents and enjoy safe rides.

Make use of hand signals.

Aside from flashing lights, reflectors, and bright clothes, also aim to learn proper hand signals to help you communicate with other motorists. Use the correct hand signals if you're slowing down, turning left, or turning right.

Ready to hit the road? If you're looking for more inspiration for your biking needs, check out bike shops Melbourne for a wide assortment of bicycles and riding gears online.