4 Essential Tips for Safe Cycling This Summer

With the road conditions and summer construction in Quebec, it’s crucial to keep the golden rules of cycling safety in mind. Here are five tips to ride with peace of mind!

Be Well-Equipped and Protected

No matter what bike you ride or your style of cycling, safety is always paramount. So, before heading out, make sure you’re well-equipped and protected!

The Helmet

Whether you’re navigating city streets on an electric bike or venturing on rugged trails with a mountain bike, the helmet is your best friend. Even if the law doesn’t always require you to wear one, we highly recommend always putting on your helmet before you set off. Ensure it’s in good condition, fits correctly, and is properly adjusted for optimal protection. Additionally, the Société de l'assurance automobile du Québec advises against buying a used helmet, as a helmet that has already been impacted is no longer effective!

As a reminder, helmet use is mandatory for:

• Cyclists on electric bikes
• Cyclists aged 12 and under
• Babies and children accompanying a parent (e.g., in a trailer or on a seat)

Mountain Protection

For mountain biking enthusiasts, additional gear is essential. Knee and elbow pads can protect you from falls, while a protective vest can cushion impacts in case of an accident. Some may even prefer a full-face helmet, similar to those used in motocross, for maximum protection.

See and Be Seen

In the city or on the road, a few accessories can greatly enhance your safety. A rearview mirror can help you monitor vehicles behind you, while lighting and high-visibility clothing are essential to remain visible, especially when cycling in the dark.

It is highly recommended to replace your bike’s standard reflector with a daytime light. This option allows motorists to spot you up to 2 km before passing you on the road, significantly increasing your safety. A good daytime light, such as our Trek Flare, is far more effective and safer than a simple reflector. Similarly, for cyclists riding in the evening or at night, a front light is indispensable to illuminate your path and ensure you’re well-seen by motorists. We strongly recommend the Trek Ion front light for this reason.

Regular Bike Maintenance

Before each bike ride, it’s essential to spend a few moments on bike maintenance. Here are some simple but crucial tips to keep your bike in top working condition:

Check Tire Pressure

Properly inflated tires ensure a smoother and safer ride. Consult your bike manufacturer’s website for specific pressure recommendations for your tires and use a gauge to ensure they are at the correct pressure.

Several factors can influence the recommended tire pressure, such as the type and width of your tire, your riding style, your weight, riding conditions, and personal preferences. If in doubt, visit us in-store so a member of our team can assist you.

Check the Brakes

Well-functioning brakes are crucial for your safety (and that of others). Before heading out, make sure your brakes are working properly by testing them gently. If you notice any issues, it’s best to have them checked by a professional. Bring your bike to our shop, and we’ll ensure your brakes are ready to handle the road without missing a STOP.

Lubricate the Chain

A well-lubricated chain ensures smoother pedaling and extends the life of your components. Use bike-specific lubricant and apply it drop by drop to each link of your chain, making sure to wipe off any excess lubricant after application.

We recommend lubricating your chain:

• After each ride in the rain
• Every 100 to 200 kilometers
• Before each important ride or competition
• After cleaning your bike

Remember: regular bike maintenance is essential for ensuring its longevity and your safety. Bringing your bike to our workshop for a full service once per season can help you avoid many road troubles. Schedule an appointment with our team today and ride with confidence!

Follow the Road Code

The Road Code is like the manual for the game. Follow our tips, and everything will go smoothly!

Maximum of 15 Cyclists per Group

In the world of cycling, there are rules to follow so everyone can enjoy the road safely. Did you know that according to the Road Safety Code, it is recommended to limit groups to a maximum of 15 cyclists during your bike outings? This not only helps avoid congestion on the road but also contributes to everyone’s safety.

So, maintain a distance of at least 1 meter between each cyclist to keep traffic flowing smoothly and safely. And beware! Riding two abreast can result in a hefty fine. Stay in line and enjoy your ride with peace of mind!

Follow Signage

Even on a bike, it is imperative to adhere to road signage. Stop at red lights, do not turn right where prohibited, and always yield to pedestrians. Respecting the rules ensures everyone’s safety.

Ride on the Right Side

Ensure you ride in the same direction as traffic, unless indicated otherwise. Signal your intentions using appropriate gestures to indicate turns or lane changes. Orderly traffic makes for predictability and reduces accident risks.

Headphones

Wearing headphones while cycling is prohibited as it can distract you from surrounding noises and make you less aware of your environment. Instead, opt for headphones that don’t go in your ears, such as SHOKZ models, which allow you to stay alert while enjoying your music.

Avoid Distractions

While cycling, it’s tempting to check your electronic gadgets, but stay focused on the road rather than your phone or smartwatch.

Avoid:

• Getting distracted by analyzing your performance.
• Taking selfies while riding (keep your feet on the ground for any photos or videos).

If you get disoriented or need to check your route, stop to consult your GPS. Use this opportunity to hydrate with electrolytes, killing two birds with one stone!

And if you happen to lose an item while riding, like our loyal customer Garry and his dentures, stop immediately and ensure the area where you can retrieve it is safe. If not, it’s better to leave the item behind, as a dentist appointment may be more costly but preferable to an emergency room visit.