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How to Select a Safe Bicycle
If you're buying a bicycle for a child, choose one to fit the child's size today, not one he or she will "grow into" later.
• A bicycle should suit the rider's ability and kind of riding.
• Check hand and foot brakes for fast, easy stops without instability or jamming.
• Avoid slippery plastic pedals. Look instead for rubber-treated pedals, or metal pedals with serrated rattrap edges or with firmly attached toe clips.
Your Bicycle
Each day before riding check your brakes for wear and tires for appropriate inflation - each week give your bicycle a thorough inspection.
• Use a seat pack capable of holding a spare tube; tools, flat tire repair kit; coins for phone call - or cellular phone.
• Bring a tire pump (most can be attached to your bike frame) Fenders will keep you and your bicycle clean.
• Rear rack and panniers or a bicycle trailer to carry your belongings.
• Use a bell to signal to others that you are approaching.
• Use a mirror for scanning behind while you ride but also learn the technique of looking back while holding a straight line.
• Consider taking a basic maintenance class through a local bike shop.
Using the Bicycle
Always wear a helmet to help prevent head injuries. CPSC is setting a new mandatory standard for bike helmets.
• Observe all traffic laws and signals, just as automobiles must do.
• Don't ride double or attempt stunts.
Ride near the curb in the same direction as traffic.
• Find alternate routes, rather than ride through busy intersections and heavy or high-speed traffic.
• Walk -- don't ride -- your bicycle across busy intersections and left turn corners.
• Avoid riding in wet weather. When wet, handbrakes may require a long distance to stop.
• Avoid riding in the dark. If you do, be sure the bike is equipped with a headlight, a taillight and reflectors. Apply retro-reflective trim to clothing, or wear reflective vests and jackets.
• Avoid loose clothing or long coats that can catch in pedals or wheels. Leg clips or bands keep pants legs from tangling in the chain.
• Avoid crossing raised sewer grates.
Maintaining the Bicycle
Regular maintenance is essential for safe riding. Refer to the owner's manual for the manufacturer's maintenance recommendations. An experienced repair technician should do complicated work.
• Align (or "true") wobbly wheels for better control. Spokes also may need adjustment.
Replace all missing, damaged, or worn parts; for example, brake pads, chain guards, chain links, spoke, screws and bolts, handlebar grips.
• Tighten and/or adjust loose parts.
• Periodically inspect frame, fork, spindles and other components for cracking.
• Parts should be adjusted to manufacturer's torque specifications. • Inflate tires to recommended pressure, and replace worn tires.
• Lightly oil and clean moving parts. Keep oil off rubber.
• Keep bicycle indoors when not in use -- moisture may cause rust and weaken metal parts.
Source: www.projectsafekids.org
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