Bicycle Safety Tips

ABC Quick Check  

The ABC Quick Check is a handy acronym that reminds cyclists of the key safety checks to perform before every ride. 

A is for Air

Press down on your tires with your thumb. If a tire gives a bit, it needs more air. 

Inflate the tire to the rated pressure in PSI (pounds per square inch) listed on the sidewall of the tire. Use a pressure gauge to ensure proper pressure. 

Check for damage to tire tread and sidewall, replace if damaged.  

B is for Brakes

Squeeze your brakes hard. You should still be able to fit your thumb between the brake levers and the handlebars. 

Replace brake pads if there is less than ¼ inch of pad left. 

C is for Cranks, Chain, and Cassette 

Make sure your chain is running smoothly – lightly oiled and free of rust and gunk - by spinning it backwards a few times. 

Check to make sure there is no debris in your crank, chain, or cassette. 

If your chain skips when shifting gears, it might require an adjustment or a replacement. 

Quick is for Quick Releases 

If your bike has quick release wheels, make sure the release levers are securely closed. 

Check is for Check Over 

Take a quick ride to check if derailleurs and brakes are working properly. 

Listen for any rubbing, grinding, or clicking noises that might indicate something isn’t working properly. 

Protective Gear

Helmet  

Wearing a well-fitting bicycle helmet is crucial for reducing the risk of serious head injuries or fatalities in the event of a crash. In Pennsylvania, the law mandates that “a person under 12 years of age shall not operate or ride as a passenger on a pedal cycle unless the person is wearing a helmet”. However, even cyclists over the age of 12 are strongly encouraged to wear a helmet for their safety. 

Proper Helmet Fitting

To ensure your helmet provides optimal protection, follow these fitting guidelines: 

  • Position: The helmet should sit level on your head, with a two-finger gap between the helmet and your eyebrows.  
  • Straps: The side straps should form a “Y” shape just below your ears.  
  • Adjustments: If your helmet is equipped with a dial adjuster in the back, tighten it until the helmet fits securely. 

Bright Clothes and Reflective Gear

Cycling in low-visibility conditions, such as at night or in rainy weather, can be hazardous. Wearing bright clothing and reflective gear enhances your visibility to drivers, reducing the risk of collision and injuries. 

  • For Daytime Visibility: Bright fluorescent clothing during should be warn during the day, opt for fluorescent colors like red, yellow, or orange. These bright hues contrast with the riding environment, making you more visible. 
  • Nighttime: Reflective gear should be worn at night. Reflective clothing is more effective than fluorescent clothing. It reflects light from car headlights and streetlights to nearby drivers. Consider the following reflective gear: 
  • Reflective jackets: Reflective strips on the knees and ankles – Which also help indicate movement to drivers.
  • Lighting: Cyclists must use lights when riding between dusk and dawn. Even with streetlights, bicycle lights are necessary for visibility against the glare of headlights. Pennsylvania law states that “every pedal cycle when in use between sunset and sunrise shall be equipped with a front lamp which emits which light intended to illuminate the operator’s path and visible from a distance of at least 500 feet to the front, a red rear reflector which shall be visible at least 500 feet to the rear and an amber reflector on each side.” 

By following these guidelines and regulations, you’ll enhance your safety and visibility while cycling.