Rules of the Road

When riding a bicycle on the road, there are unwritten rules that you have to follow, otherwise, you’d be riding solo. Here are some of these rules that can be used here.

Wearing earphones is a no-no. You’re not only endangering yourself but also you are a risk to the other cyclists and motorists. If you want to ride with the Stones, then use the cellphone speakers by inserting it between your jersey sleeves and arms.

Be predictable. Use hand signals when communicating with other cyclists and motorists. Motorists appreciate and respect cyclists who are also respectful.

Don’t spit or blow your nose indiscriminately. Gently move away or go behind the paceline and do your thing. During a race or a fast pace, bend your head forward and spit at your front wheel. The snot will probably land on your bicycle or on you. Thats a lot better than the snot landing on another rider.

If it’s a training ride, always take your turn at the front and pull. If there is one thing I hate, its those cyclists who sit at the back and do nothing. If you don’t want to pull, don’t stay near the front or don’t attack at the end of the ride. It’s rude!

Always look ahead on the horizon, not at the wheel in front of you. This will give you more reaction time in case of an obstacle ahead. If you’re leading the paceline, signal for potholes or broken glass. Scream, if needed!

Obey traffic laws. We don’t own the road, we share the road. Ride on the side that is as wide as your comfort allows you and never ever ride at the middle. Always make a signal when you turn or move to the sides.

Don’t force your way in spaces that don’t exist. Remember, there are riders behind you who are depending on your visuals. Remember that a car weighs 4000lbs, your bike about 20lbs. It’s always car- 1, bicycle- 0, when they collide.

Pull over when you answer your phone. And don’t text while riding. You’re not multi-tasking, you’re just increasing your chance of getting yourself killed.

Always bring a patch kit, hand pump, money and more importantly,  learn how to replace your tubes.  Nobody likes to ride with someone who doesn't know how to fix a flat unless you’re paying for lunch.

Be a gentleman. Always say, “Hi!” to other cyclists. But when you’re climbing to Busay and almost oxygen depleted, just wave. They’ll understand.

Finally, when you are riding, your actions speak for the majority. If you are respectful, people will always interpret it as the action of the whole. Always give a thumbs up to drivers who’ll let you pass first.  Even after a 4-hour ride, don’t forget wear a huge smile! It’s hard for anyone to get angry at a smiling person!