SLU Cycling

I love riding my bike. Even though Toronto isn’t adequately equipped with proper bike lanes it’s still a whole lot of fun. Of course, because Toronto is not the most bike friendly city, it’s important to take proper precautions before heading out on to the streets.

Before you leave home

-Wear a helmet

-Have a bell

-Wear bright and even reflective clothes

-Tie or tuck or roll up your (usually right) pant leg, so it doesn’t get tangled in your chain

-If you ride at night, bring a light

-Check your bike, test your breaks and make sure your seat is adjusted so it reaches your hip

-Have a good lock. Remember to lock your bike through the frame and both wheels.

On the Road

-One thing that scares me more than cars is other cyclists. Please, drive with traffic, not against it!

-Take up a lane just like a car, to make a left turn. If you are uncomfortable doing this, get off the bike, turn in to a pedestrian and walk the bike through the crosswalk at the intersection.

-Never swerve through cars or cut across lanes diagonally.

-Never ride your bike on the sidewalk. Always walk it.

-Move aside to let faster cyclists pass you safely.

-Most people don’t know hand signals for left turn, right turn and stop. Instead always point out where you want to go.

-Always be aware. Look behind you whenever it’s necessary. Don’t assume the cars are looking out for you. They are not.

-Follow the rules of the road. Stop at red light, stop signs and allow pedestrians to cross at crosswalks.

Being a well mannered cyclist is important not only for safety but to encourage cities that biking is a safe and environmentally friendly mode of transportation. A lot of cyclists give us responsible enthusiasts a bad name.

The TTC has started the “Rack and Ride” program. This allows cyclists to attach up to 2 bikes on a rack, located on the front of the bus. Now you can travel further to bike paths and not take up a bunch of room on a crowded bus!

For more cycling safety and road rules info, visit the Ontario Ministry of Transportation website.

Ride Safe

By: Kaleena A Lawless

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