If you’ve recently decided to purchase a
city bicycle,
you’ve made a wise decision for your health and the environment. There are many
different
commuter
bikes for sale, but once you decide on one, you need to figure out how
you’ll get around the busy city. Here are 10 tips for Boston bicycle commuters
who want to stay safe.
1.
Know Where to Find Secure Parking
If you ride your bike to work, the grocery
store, or anywhere else, you’ll need to park it at some point. Instead of
leaning it against the side of some random building, find out in advance where
secure bicycle parking is located. You should also buy a sturdy lock and use it
to keep your bike attached to an object, such as a parking meter.
2.
Learn the Rules of the Road
Breaking the law while riding your bike
could be deadly. Know the rules of the road before you commute anywhere on your
bicycle.
3.
Make Yourself Visible
Motorists don’t always look carefully for
cyclists. That’s why you should go above and beyond to make yourself visible.
The best
city cruiser bikes include reflectors on the tires, but you should also
wear reflectors on your clothing whenever possible. Invest in bike lights as
well.
4.
Prepare for Bad Weather
The weather can turn sour at any time, so
it’s always good to be prepared. Keep waterproof pants and a waterproof jacket
with you at all times in case a storm rolls in.
5.
Ride With Others
There is safety in numbers, especially when
it comes to cycling. If you are worried about riding by yourself, recruit a
friend or co-worker to ride with you.
6.
Plan Your Route in Advance
Some roads are safer than others for
cyclists to ride on. Before you leave, plan your route in advance and try to
stick to roads that have cycling lanes or wide shoulders.
7.
Maintain Your Bike
Regular tune-ups are important for keeping
your bike in good working order. Whether you ride every day or just a few times
a year, tuning up your bike regularly will make it a more reliable form of
transportation.
8.
Keep a Patch Kit With You
You should always carry a patch kit, spare
tube and a light pump or canister of C02 with you. Being prepared will help you
avoid becoming stranded on the side of the road with a flat tire.
9.
Be Wary
You never want to stick earbuds in your
ears and get lost in thought while you’re riding. Always be wary of your
surroundings and watch for hazards. These can include drivers, railroad
crossing, potholes and road work.
10.
Store Your Belongings Securely
If you plan to bring extra clothing,
weather gear and patch kits with you, you’ll need to keep them secured in a
safe place. Attach a rear rack or pannier to your bike so you can safely carry
small items with you wherever you go.
Commuting on a city bike is a responsible decision for many people. To make sure
you’re prepared and safe on your next ride, keep these tips in mind.
