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Bicycle safety tips
Introduction
Riding a bicycle is more than basic
transportation, it can be a fun and exciting hobby and a great source of exercise. When
you ride you're not alone. You share the road with cars, trucks, pedestrians, and other
cyclists. More and more cyclists are taking to the roads, trails, and paths this summer
and an accident can quickly turn a bicycle adventure into a bicycling tragedy.
Bike size
Parents often make the mistake of selecting a
bike that is obviously too big for their child, thinking that he/she will grow into it.
Not only is learning to drive and ride an oversized bike extremely difficult, but much of
the enjoyment is lost and the risk of falls and collisions is increased.
A bicycle should suit the rider's ability and kind of riding. Get the right fit, a bike
that's too big or small can be uncomfortable and dangerous. An oversized bicycle impedes
balance and hampers control.
Frame size - with both feet flat on the ground, straddle a bike's crossbar. If there's 1
or 2 inches between you and the bar (3 inches for mountain bikes), that's the frame size
for you (even if you buy a bike without a crossbar). Never buy a bike to grow into.
Saddle Height - The single most important aspect of body positioning is saddle height. It
influences how effectively power is delivered from your legs to the pedals. Proper saddle
height reduces knee strain and thereby reduces the likelihood of knee fatigue or injury.
Adjust the saddle so that when seated, your heels rest solidly on the pedals. Pedal
backwards. If your pelvis rocks from side to side in order to keep your heels on the
pedals at the bottom of the stroke, the saddle is too high. Lower the seat until your
heels remain on the pedals while pedaling backwards. When saddle height is properly
adjusted, rocking from side to side will no longer occur.
Legs should not be fully straight while cycling. A proper riding position requires legs to
be approximately 95% extended at the bottom of the stroke, with the balls of the feet
squarely placed on the pedals. Saddle Tilt - The saddle should comfortably support most of
your body weight. Body weight should be centered on the saddle, with your arms flexed and
relaxed.
Handlebars - the grips should be at about seat level. With dropped handlebars, the upper
part should be at or a little below seat level. Seat post and handlebar stems are
inscribed by the manufacturer with marks establishing the maximum adjustment (max. adj.)
height. Never raise a seat post or handlebar stem higher than these marks. There must be
sufficient post or stem inside the frame to support the stress and weight. Insufficient
stem or post inside the frame may cause the top part of the tube to break off.
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