The Grand Illinois Trail - Biking Tips

WEAR A HELMET-Whether you are going to the corner or across the state, wear a good-fitting helmet.

OBEY TRAFFIC SIGNS AND SIGNALS-Bicycles must drive like other vehicles if they are to be taken seriously by motorists.

ALWAYS RIDE WITH THE TRAFFIC - Motorists aren't looking for bicyclists riding on the wrong side of the road. State law and common sense require that bicyclists drive like other vehicles.

DON'T WEAVE BETWEEN PARKED CARS - Don't ride out to the curb between parked cars unless they are far apart. Motorists may not see you when you try to move back into the flow of traffic.

FOLLOW LANE MARKINGS AS YOU WOULD IF YOU WERE DRIVING - Don't turn left from the right lane. Don't go straight in a lane marked "right-turn only."

DON'T PASS ON THE RIGHT - Motorists may not look for or see a bicycle passing on the right. Learn to scan the road behind you while riding. Look back over your shoulder without swerving, or use a rear-view mirror.

SCAN THE ROAD BEHIND - Learn to look back over your shoulder without losing your balance or swerving. Some riders use rear-view mirrors.

KEEP BOTH HANDS READY TO BRAKE - You may not stop in time if you brake one-handed. Allow extra distance for stopping in the rain, since breaks are less efficient when wet. If you have drop handlebars, stay out of the drops while in traffic. This way you are closer to the brakes and have better control.

DRESS APPROPRIATELY - In rain wear a pancho or waterproof suit. Dress in layers so you can adjust to temperature changes. Wear a sturdy helmet to protect your head. Wear bright colored clothing.

NEVER RIDE WITH HEADPHONES - Never wear headphones while riding a bike.

HAND SIGNALS - Hand signals tell motorists and pedestrians what you intend to do. Signal as a matter of law, courtesy, and self-protection.

CHOOSE THE BEST WAY TO TURN LEFT - 2 Choices: (1) Like an auto: signal the move into the left turn lane and turn left. (2) Like a pedestrian: ride straight to the far side crosswalk. Walk your bike across.

MAKE EYE CONTACT WITH DRIVERS - Assume that other drivers don't see you until you are sure that they do. Eye contact is important with any driver who might pose a threat to your safety.

AVOID ROAD HAZARDS - Watch out for parallel-slat sewer grates, gravel, ice, or debris. Cross railroad tracks at right angles.

USE LIGHTS AT NIGHT - The law requires a white headlight (visible from at least 500 feet ahead) and a rear reflector or taillight (visible up to 300 feet from behind).

KEEP BIKE IN GOOD REPAIR - Adjust your bike to fit you and keep it working properly. Check brakes and tires regularly. Routine maintenance is simple and you can learn to do it yourself.

For additional tips you can visit:

Riding tips for riding your bike in the city, on rural routes or paths
http://www.bitrot.de/bbook_riding.html#intown

Tips for road travel...
http://www.trans.ci.portland.or.us/bicycles/raintips.htm

...and long distance travel
http://www.bitrot.de/bbook_travel.html

In case of emergency
http://www.bitrot.de/bbook_accident.html

How to pack for a trip
http://www.bitrot.de/bbook_clothes.html

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