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safety basics

HBC RIDE SAFETY RULES AND RECOMMENDATIONS

HBC is proud of its safety record! Please review and follow all biking rules and recommendations to help us all stay safe.

BEFORE A RIDE

  • Make sure you have a properly fitting helmet. All riders on HBC Rides must wear a helmet.
  • HBC members must sign a waiver each year.
  • Non-member guests must sign a waiver before participating in a ride. And guests are covered by HBC’s insurance only on their first ride
  • Minors (under 18 years old) on HBC rides must be accompanied by a responsible adult. A waiver must be signed by a parent or guardian before minors can participate in a ride.
  • Choose rides that are the right pace, distance and challenge for your riding abilities.
  • Check the forecast and dress for the weather, including layers to add or subtract.
  • Carry a water bottle (or two) and a snack.
  • Arrive at the starting location at least 20 minutes before the ride time and get ready to ride on time!
  • Make sure your car is locked with all valuables out of sight.

Use the ABC check to make sure that your bike is in good working condition.


A is for Air

  • Make sure your tires are inflated to the pressure listed on the side of the tires.
  • Make sure that your tires still have plenty of tread. Check for cuts or bald spots and look for glass or rocks in the tread that will make trouble later.
  • Carry an extra tube, patch kit, tire levers, bike tool and a pump.



B is for Brakes.

  • Spin each wheel and check for any rubbing between the brake pads and the rotor.
  • Inspect pads for wear and replace if there is less than ¼" of pad left.
  • Squeeze brake levers to make sure they engage firmly with about one inch of space between the lever and handlebar.
  • Know which brake handle controls your rear brake (normally the right) and use it as your primary brake or with the front brake. 



C is for Cranks and Chain.

  • Pull your cranks away from the bike and tighten the bolt if they are loose.
  • Check that your chain is clean and lubricated.
  • Make sure that quick releases are all closed and pointing to the rear of the bike.


DURING A RIDE

  • Bicycle riders, like drivers of motor vehicles, must obey all traffic laws. Minnesota Bicycle Laws is a good reference!
  • Using personal listening devices or mobile phones will reduce your ability to ride safely and are prohibited.
  • Use rear-view mirrors to keep track of others on the road or trail. Mirrors can attach to your glasses or helmet or bike.
  • A proper operating headlight and taillight is required for night rides, and useful for day rides.
  • Use hand signals and verbal callouts to communicate with fellow riders or pedestrians.


  • Ride as far to the right as you safely can.
  • Ride no more than two abreast and ride single file when there is traffic on streets or trails.
  • Use extra caution when sharing trails with walkers, runners and pets. Call out a warning “on your left” when you approach from behind to pass someone.
  • Leave space between the bike ahead of you or next to you. This allows everyone to safely react to anything unexpected. 

AFTER A RIDE

Thank your Ride Leader! Ride Leaders work hard to plan a route, create a map, oversee the ride and record your miles. A sincere "thank you" means a lot to them.

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