Friday, July 4, 2008

  1. Get and wear a properly fitted helmet. This is really important!
  2. Get your bike in shape, using the safety checklist below. Do this in enough time to get to your bike shop for repairs, if you need to, well before the tour.
  3. Start cycling well in advance of Cycle Across Maryland so that your body is ready for the ride. Out of shape? Maybe you should check with your physician before you begin.
  4. Bring one or more water bottles or hydration system (i.e. Camelback). Mount a water bottle cage on your bike, and learn to reach down and drink from it while you are riding, so that you can keep hydrated during the rides. Fill another water bottle with a sports drink for added energy.
  5. Pack a rain jacket. We ride rain or shine. If we all bring rain gear, it won't rain!
  6. Pack a few energy snacks. We'll have bananas, snacks, sports drinks and water at the rest stops and at the end of each day's rides, but it doesn't hurt to be self-sufficient.
  7. Pack a few basic bike repair tools, including a spare inner tube that's the right size for your bike and a pump. Even if you don't know how to fix a flat, it will be easier get help if you have these tools with you.
  8. Bring personal identification and some money for phone calls, if you don't have a mobile phone. Pack some sunscreen and minor first aid supplies.
  9. If you're riding with kids, prepare them for the ride, and make a "in case we get separated" plan. You may want to establish a contact person whom you both can call. 
  10.  Learn to ride predictably without weaving or stopping suddenly. Say "On your left!" as you pass others so as not to surprise them or yourself.

Get ready to have a great time at Cycle Across Maryland!

Six Steps to Safety Check

  1. Make sure your bike is the proper size. A bike that is too big or too small will be hard to control. When you're standing on the ground you should have a 1-3 inch gap between you and the top bar. You'll need more room if you’re riding a mountain bike.
  2. Check to see if your bike seat is adjusted to the proper height. When you're sitting on the seat with your foot on the pedal, your leg should be slightly bent. This will help avoid knee strain.
  3. Make sure you have a reflector on the front and rear of your bike. The rear should be red and should be at least three inches across. Make sure the reflector is pointed straight back to reflect the headlights of cars that are coming up behind you.       
  4. Check the bike's chain to make sure it's clean and lubricated. If it's not, take it to the local bike shop for a check up.
  5. Check your brakes for even pressure. They should make your back wheels skid on dry pavement, but you don't want brakes that stick. Yikes!
  6. Make sure your tires are properly inflated.