Tips for a safe, fun Chicago Bike Week

Active Transportation Alliance is celebrating Chicago’s commitment to bicycling with the 25th annual Chicago Bike Week during June 10-17. 

Residents cruising around the city on two wheels will have the opportunity to take part in a handful of free events as part of Bike Week, including the Bike Commuter Challenge.

Our annual commuter biking competition encourages workers throughout Chicagoland to bike to and from their offices while competing for bragging rights as the city’s No. 1 bike commuting team.

Recruit your co-workers and get riding to earn prizes and glory for your team — all while reducing your carbon footprint.

For Bike Week, Active Trans is offering some basic safety tips for both new and veteran bike riders. 

1. Ride with traffic, not against it. Not only is riding with traffic a legal requirement, it’s the safest place because it’s where everyone expects you to be riding.  
2. Steer clear of the door zone. Not giving yourself four feet from cars is one of the most common — and dangerous— rookie mistakes. 
3. Wear a helmet. In addition to wearing it, make sure it’s properly fitted, too. 
4. Get your seat at the correct height. A saddle at the wrong height may cause uncomfortable riding.   
5. Be visible: Wear bright colors and use lights at night. Bicycles are perfectly safe to ride at night as long you’re outfitted with lights so that everyone else can see you. 
6. Obey all traffic laws, signs and signals. The rules of the road apply to everyone who uses it. This also shows common courtesy toward other people using the road.   
7. Signal your intentions by using hand signals. Riding predictably creates a safer, more harmonious experience for everyone on the road. 

You can learn more about these tips as well as other bicycling resources at the Active Trans website.