Smart rules to follow when biking in groups

With RAGBRAI fast approaching and the great influx of bicyclists about to enter our fair city, there are a few rules we need to be reminded of when riding in a group:

l Always wear a helmet.

l Call out “bike on” or “rider on” when entering into a group.

l Stay in your line of travel. If changing lanes or direction, let those behind you know what your intentions are.

l When you see a bike approaching from the opposite direction, call out “bike up.”

l When you see a bike coming from behind with the intent to pass you, call out “bike back.”

l When crossing a road intersection and there are no motor vehicles coming, call out “clear” to let the bike behind you know that it is safe to cross.

l If slowing down, call out “slowing.” When stopping, call out “stopping.” If making a turn, call out “turning left” or “turning right.” If leaving the group to pull off the road, call out “bike off” or “rider off.”

l If you see an obstruction in the road point to it to let those behind you know to look out for it.

l Never challenge an automobile, even if you are in the right.

l Be aware of cars, motorcycles and pedestrians.

l Be a good ambassador for bicycling. If you are holding up a line of cars, pull over and let them pass.

l Obey all traffic laws.

Be smart, be safe!

Jill Fassler

Bicycle Advisory Committee

Hiawatha