Bicycling in Oceanside
Whether new to bicycling or an old hand, this guide includes need-to-know information that can help you stay safe and enjoy your time while cycling. Join me in looking at ways bicyclists can get more out of the sport.
Things a Beginner Needs to Know
California’s laws make it mandatory for those under 18 to wear a helmet. But what about the rest of us? Since 60 percent of all bicycle deaths are head injuries, it makes sense to wear a helmet no matter how old you are. Pick the fitting helmet. Look for a sticker that says it is approved by the Consumer Products Safety Commission and meets their recommendations.
Sizing Your New Bike
Buy a bicycle that is the right size for you. First off, measure your torso, inseam, and arm length. Use your inseam to establish your stand-over height. This is the inseam plus a half-inch for top tube clearance. For the distance between the seat and handlebars, add your torso length and arm length, divide them by two, then deduct six. Using these measurements helps to keep you comfortable, improves your ride, and helps you stay safe. Make sure the saddle is right for you.
Safety Protocol for Any Age
Don’t wear headphones when you ride. This blocks out disturbing sounds but may also eliminate honking horns warning you of danger or emergency vehicles instructing you to get out of the way. If you prefer music while you cycle, attach a clip-on speaker to your shirt.
California Rules of the Road
Learn the rules of the road in California. Other vehicles on the road trust you to know these rules found in a DMV handbook. Be vigilant for other vehicles and anticipate their movements. Keep your eyes on the vehicle directly in front of you, and stay a safe distance so you can maneuver if the car or truck stops abruptly. Pull up slightly on your front wheel to avoid a crash when you spot a pothole or other obstacle directly in your path. It may damage your rear wheel, but you have a better chance of not getting hurt. Bicycle accidents can result in serious injuries, including traumatic brain injury. The best way to stay safe is to take the necessary precautions, obey traffic laws, and watch for potential problems.
Guard against Muscle Soreness
Watch your posture while cycling. Do not draw your shoulders up and bend forward to avoid muscle soreness. Hunching over the long haul can cause muscle soreness. Moving forward and backward on the seat helps you use different muscles and serves as a respite for others. Moving further back, you will use the glutes and the hamstrings. Sliding forward helps you exercise the quadriceps. Change your pace, particularly on long runs. Staying in high gear without changing will ensure you will be uncomfortable.
Clothing Is Important
Wearing clothing that suits your bicycling needs is essential. For instance, if you use your bike to go to and from work or travel to town, you will probably use your day clothes. However, if you are going on a bike trip, specialty items might help. Wear padded shorts if you are traveling a long distance. Make sure you are clearly visible if you are biking at night. Wearing reflective clothing helps since a bike’s headlight, rear reflectors, and side reflectors might not be enough.
Bike maintenance
Check the pressure in the tires just as you would for your car. The manufacturer’s recommended pressure should be on the tire. Keep a tire pump handy. Your bike chain should be cleaned and oiled. This could avoid the expensive replacement of chainrings in the future. Carry a repair kit, and learn how to use it if your tire is punctured while riding away from home.
Related Links:
Oceanside Bicycle Accident Lawyer Ed Smith
Oceanside Bicycle Accident Lawyer
I’m Ed Smith, an Oceanside bike accident lawyer. If a negligent driver or entity caused your bicycle accident, call me at (760) 509-8818 for free and friendly advice. The toll-free number is (800) 404-5400.
In my 35-year career as a California injury lawyer, I have helped numerous people obtain fair compensation for their wrongful deaths and traumatic injuries, as well as bicycle injuries. Help is just one phone call away.
My verdicts and settlements listings show how I have helped others to receive fair compensation for their injuries. To find out what previous clients had to say, please visit the following review sites:
I am a member of the California Section of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum, a group of top trial attorneys nationwide with settlements or verdicts of at least $1 million.
I own autoaccident.com, one of the most comprehensive websites on California personal injuries.
Photo Attribution: https://pixabay.com/en/return-cyclist-spain-the-turn-1819651/
:cd ab cv