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Safe Riding Suggestions
- pacelines: Don't overlap wheels, don't hit your brakes, don't do anything sudden, don't accelerate when it's your turn at the front. Do call out any hazards that could cause a crash. See Paceline Basics for more info.
- aerobars: Don't use 'em unless you are by yourself. NEVER use them in the middle of a paceline! They are extremely dangerous in that situation - unstable, no access to shifters/brakes, etc. The only exception is for a coordinated team time trial (TTT), which should only be undertaken in controlled situations.
- hazards: Only call them out if they are a possible hazard, such as a pothole that could damage a wheel or cause a crash. Pointing out every leaf blowing by will lead people to ignore your warnings ("crying wolf", in other words).
- signaling: There are "correct" (DMV-style) signals and there are signals that people understand. Use the latter - simply point which way you plan to turn, extending your arm and index finger. Note: do not use a very fast motion coupled with a fist, which is known as a "Right turn, Clyde!"
- taking the lane: When there is little or no shoulder and cars are coming uncomfortably close, simply take over the center of the lane (look first!) This is perfectly legal and is safer than getting sideswiped by a giant mirror on an F-250 SuperDuty. When there is sufficient shoulder again, look and ease back over to the right.
- going straight in an intersection w/ right turn lane: Don't take the right-turn pocket! This is lame and will piss-off drivers (for good reason). Ease left a bit so you leave room for the right-turners. You can temporarily block the straight-goers until the light turns green. If you do find yourself in the right-turn lane and drivers are stacking up behind you w/ blinkers on, give them room and a friendly signal to pass. Don't be obnoxious for no reason.
- following a rider you know is about to try to get over (usually to the left): If you are following someone who you very well know is about to attempt to ease into a left-turn lane or similar, it is incumbent upon you to not block their vision - thus you should ease to the right, and stay back at least 3 feet, as they will likely slow and swerve a bit when turning back to look if it's safe to get over. Assume, even if you are small, that you almost completely block their rearward vision, especially if within a few feet of the person.
- tandems: All responsibility is the captain's; the stoker is always blameless. See The Proper Method for more info.
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