Bicycle Safety Tips

Every bike MUST have:

A brake that will make at least one wheel skid on dry pavement.
Handlebars that are lower than your shoulder.
A permanent and regular seat for the rider.
A rider big enough to ride it. You must be able to support the bike upright with one foot on the ground.
When driving after dark, there must be a white light in the front, a red reflector in the back and a white or yellow reflector on each pedal. A white or yellow reflector must also be on the forward side and rear side of the center unless the bike has reflectors on the tires.

Pointers for Safety:

Pedestrians always have the right-of-way at crosswalks.
Traffic signal lights and highway signs must always be obeyed.
Do not ride on sidewalks.
Ride in a bicycle lane if one is provided.
Ride as close to the right-hand side of the road if there is no bicycle lane.
Ride in the same direction cars are going.
Do not carry another person on the handlebars. You may not be able to stop if necessary.
Do not attach yourself and bicycle to a car or other motor vehicle.
Always keep at least one hand on the handlebars.
Know your hand signals and use them.
Give the right of way to cars and pedestrians.
Your headlight must be turned on at all times when it is dark.
When riding with others, ride single file.
You must wear a properly fitted helmet - it's the law!

Bicycle Maintenance

Do:

Store your bike in a cool, dry place.

Investigate noises made when your bike is in motion; look for friction, poor adjustment or loose parts.

Keep tires and all working parts clean. Use a soft, damp cloth.

Test brakes regularly.

Automobile wax will help keep paint and plated parts bright.

Keep moving parts thoroughly cleaned and lubricated.

If you are growing, adjust handlebars and saddle (seat) height regularly.
Don't:

Avoid riding your bike off curbs - every shock can damage tires, rim, frames or bearings.

Avoid standing your bike on deflated tires. The weight will crack the sidewalls.

Don't ride with a chain that is too loose; the efficiency of your bike depends on a well-adjusted chain.

Avoid scratching or denting the frame and fenders; exercise care in parking your bike.

Don't ride if your tires are soft, worn out or damaged. Sudden tire failure can cause the loss of control and accidents.

Don't ride unless brakes work perfectly. Excessive wear or improper adjustment may cause them to fail you in time of need.

For more information about bicycle safety, contact the City of Palmdale public safety office at 267-5170.

City of Palmdale

Official Web Site

Bicycle Safety Tips

Bicycle Maintenance