Where to Ride

Where to Ride
You need to check with your mom and dad about where you're allowed to ride your bike. You need to know how far you're allowed to go and whether you should ride on the sidewalk on in the street. Either way, you need to keep an eye out for cars and trucks. Even if you're just riding on sidewalk, a car may pull out of its driveway into the path of your bike. If you're crossing a busy road, it's best to walk your bike across the street.

A bike path free of cars is a great choice if there's one in your area. Just remember to share the path with the other riders, walkers, and strollers who also might be using it! And if you're going on a long ride, bring some water along with you.

And no matter where you ride, keep an eye on the road ahead so you can be prepared for big hills and road obstacles. Some common ones that can cause falls include:

wet leaves
big puddles
changes in the road surface
storm grates
gravel or rocks
curbs
little kids in your way!
Road Rules
If you're allowed to ride on the street, follow these road rules:

Always stop and check for traffic in both directions when leaving your driveway, an alley, or a curb.
Cross at intersections. When you pull out between parked cars, drivers can't see you coming.
Walk your bike across busy intersections using the crosswalk and following traffic signals.
Ride on the right-hand side of the street, so you travel in the same direction as cars do. Never ride against traffic.
Use bike lanes or designated bike routes wherever you can.
Don't ride too close to parked cars. Doors can open suddenly.
Stop at all stop signs and obey street (red) lights just as cars do.
Ride single file on the street with friends.
When passing other bikers or people on the street, always pass to their left side, and call out "On your left!" so they know that you are coming.
Use hand signals (below), so other bikers and drivers will know what you're going to do next.
Hand Signals
It may help to learn some hand signals. These are like turn signals and brake lights for bikers. It helps cars and trucks know what you will do next, so they don't run into you