Bike Smart

We endorse the Bike Smart, Virginia, safety program. During the Tour de Chesapeake we provide on-the-road training in safe biking skills. These skill training sessions are held at Rest Stops. Plan now to take a few minutes and become a safer, smarter cyclist.

Wearing Your Helmet Correctly

As anyone who has ever suffered a bicycling accident or even a “close call” knows, your helmet is a vital element of cycling safely. But just wearing a helmet is not enough – you need to ensure that your helmet fits.

1. The helmet should fit flat on the top of the head, not too far forward or too far back.
2. The two helmet straps should form a “V” right under the ear.
3. Leave enough room for one finger under the chin inside the strap. It should be taut but not choking – you should be able to talk to your friends.

With a helmet fitted correctly, you can enjoy a safe ride on your bike. In addition to protecting your head, helmets with reflective trim increase visibility by motorists. Also, wearing a helmet indicates to passers by that you are a responsible cyclist.

Helmet Shopping…

Most importantly, buy only helmets that are ASTM, ANSI, or Snell approved. When trying on a helmet, choose the one that fits the best before making any adjustments. Use the extra padding that comes with a helmet to make sure it’s snug.

Facts:

• Helmets are 85% effective in protecting against head injury.
• Helmets keep you cooler in the summer by protecting from direct sun and warmer in the winter with a little insulation from wind and cold.

Group Riding Tips

Are you a natural born leader or follower? As in other aspects of life, in group riding it’s essential to understand the importance of both roles. If you automatically blaze the trail, remember to be considerate to your fellow cyclists who might not have your expertise.

1. Be consistent in your efforts, keeping even pressure on the pedals. When climbing, switch to a lower gear before you stand to maintain a steady forward pace. Likewise when averting obstacles, do so with care, gradually steering clear of them and calling out a warning to those behind you.
2. When approaching a turn, alert the group by pointing in that direction. This simple gesture is often easier to interpret, especially for novice group cyclists. Vocal signals such as “Turn left,” or “Swerve right,” help reinforce hand signals when you have a large group.
3. For followers in the group, no tailgating. New cycling friends will remain friends if they can avoid overlapping or bumping wheels, or heaven forbid, causing a spill.
4. All members of the group should help guide the others if some stray too far into the road. Alerting them with a firm “Car back” will encourage all to tuck in and let cars pass.

Just like walking or driving, “watch where you’re going,” and you’ll enjoy the camaraderie of group cycling.

Facts: Most accidents on the Tour de Chesapeake stem from

1. biking too fast for conditions,
2. following another cyclist too closely.

The prevention tip for the first would be: use some common sense.

The second tip is even simpler: “Back Off.”
Always remember: You are on unfamiliar roads – control your speed.