As a force for change in Indianapolis, CIBA has members as active representatives for cyclists. From the greenways to the Cultural Trail, CIBA is carrying the torch of cycling.

 

 

Tips for Safe Cycling and Driving

Indianapolis -- It may not feel like spring outside, but the change in season is just around the corner, which means bicyclists will again be hitting local streets and roads in larger numbers, and that prompts the need for everyone on the roads to pay greater attention to what’s going on around them.

The Central Indiana Bicycling Association (CIBA) kicks off their cycling season Mar. 9. To help Hoosiers stay safe, CIBA offers these safety tips for cyclists and motorists alike to make it easier to share the road this season.

 

Safety tips for cyclists:

• Wear a helmet.
• Be visible and predictable – wear bright colors, ride straight and in a predictable manner.
• Use hand signals to indicate turns and stops.
• Use a mirror to see traffic approaching from behind.
• Ride with traffic, not against it.
• Follow traffic rules as if you’re driving a car.
• Ride as close to the right-hand side of the road as practical.
• Ride responsibly, and do not weave in and out of traffic.
• Use lights if cycling at night.

 

Safety tips for motorists:

• Be alert and remember that bicycles are more difficult to see than cars.
• Don’t honk – it can startle a cyclist and cause him to swerve.
• Don’t take a cyclist’s speed for granted – many travel 25-30 mph or faster.
• Yield to oncoming bikes when turning, just as you do for cars.
• When passing, slow down and allow plenty of room (at least 3 feet) to clear the cyclist.
• When exiting a car, use mirrors to check for cyclists before opening doors.

 

The best rule of thumb in all situations is to be prepared and to be aware. It takes effort to share the road, and a little effort goes a long way in keeping our streets and roads safe for all who travel them.

 

Learn more about cycling safety and ways to enjoy your ride at www.cibaride.org or www.bicycleindiana.org. Call 317-767-SPOKE or 317-466-9701.

 

About The Central Indiana Bicycling Association (CIBA)

CIBA is a non-profit organization devoted to encouraging the use of the bicycle as a means for touring, exercising and commuting. The club sponsors daily rides between March and November, and has rides every month of the year. CIBA sponsors the NITE Ride, Indiana's only nighttime ride, and the Hilly Hundred, one of the premier weekend tours in the country. The club financially supports educational events and developmental activities for younger riders and is active in pursuing adoption of bicycling-related legislation within the local community. Club members frequently volunteer time to ensure bicycle-related activities can occur.