Tips and Tricks for Bicycle Commuting | Denver Regional Council of Governments

Summer Biking Tips

Be alert and prepare for your ride.
Always wear a helmet and bright, reflective clothing. Your safety will increase the more visible you are to other bicyclists and cars.
Bring layers and waterproof, breathable clothing. The roads and trails can be unpredictable along with the weather.
An extra pair of socks and shoes can be a life saver.
It is better to leave your house feeling cold. Your body will warm up as you ride. Your sweat can make you colder.
Plan your route ahead of time. Long commute? Bring your bike on the bus or light rail.
See and be seen. Have both a front light and a back light of at least 500 lumens for the front light and 100 lumens for your rear light.
Make sure your bike is in safe, working order. Regularly check your chains, tires, brakes and lights.
Carry a basic bicycle repair kit and learn about bike tuning.
Be considerate of others on the road, path and trail. Give an audible signal when passing pedestrians.
Make eye contact with drivers when crossing intersections and use hand signals when turning.
Register your bike and learn your city and county’s local biking ordinances.
Learn how to lock up your bike securely.
Check with building codes for guidance on where to store bikes with lithium-ion batteries.
If rain is in the forecast, dress and pack accordingly utilizing waterproof bags and layers. Utilize fenders over your wheels.

Be alert and considerate when sharing the road.
Keep an eye out for reflectors and lights on sidewalks as you might not see bicyclists when the sun goes down.
Remember that bicyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as motorists.
Be aware at intersections for bicyclists who might be crossing.
Know your weight advantage. A car can weigh two tons or more, while the average bike, with rider, is about 180 pounds.
Obey speed limits and other road rules.
Signal your turns and watch for hand signals from cyclists.
Check before you exit your car to avoid hitting a cyclist with your door.

Be alert and prepare for your ride.
Wear a helmet and bright, reflective clothing to increase visibility and safety.
Bring layers and waterproof, breathable clothing for unpredictable weather and road conditions.
Pack an extra pair of socks and shoes; start out cool because your body will warm up as you ride.
Plan your route ahead of time. Long commute? Bring your bike on the bus or light rail.
See and be seen. Have both a front light and a back light of at least 500 lumens for the front light and 100 lumens for the rear light.
Check your bike regularly to ensure chains, tires, brakes and lights are in working order.
Run tires at lower pressure for better traction on icy or snow covered trails; consider switching to tires with better grip.
Carry a basic bicycle repair kit and learn about bike tuning.
Signal audibly when passing pedestrians and be considerate of others on roads, paths and trails.
Fill a water bottle with warm water or have an insulated water bottle to prevent water from freezing during the ride.
Make eye contact with drivers when crossing intersections and use hand signals when turning.
Register your bike and learn local biking ordinances.
Lock your bike securely and learn proper locking techniques.
Keep electric bike batteries warm by parking your bike indoors or removing the battery and bringing it with you. Cold temperatures drain batteries quickly.
Check with building codes for guidance on where to store bikes with lithium-ion batteries.

Be alert and considerate when sharing the road. Respect bicyclists' rights and responsibilities on roads.
Watch for reflectors and lights on sidewalks, especially after sunset when bicyclists are harder to see.
Be aware at intersections for bicyclists who might be crossing.
Know your weight advantage. A car can weigh two tons or more, while the average bike, with rider, is about 180 pounds.
Obey speed limits and all road rules.
Slow down on snowy days and share the road with bicyclists when sidewalks are covered with snow or ice.
Signal your turns and watch for hand signals from cyclists.
Check before exiting your vehicle to avoid hitting a cyclist with your door.