CLT Safety

FOR NEW BICYCLE RIDERS

1. Always wear a helmet and make sure it fits properly.
2. Ride on the right side of the trail when others are present.
3. Try not to block the trail for others by riding side by side.
4. Warn trail users that you are going to pass them by calling out "passing on your left".
5. Always pass on the left.
6. Ride as close to the edge of the trail as practicable.
7. Wear biking gloves (they are padded to protect your hands if you fall or hit bumps).
8. Carry water
9. Carry a cell phone and know that some sections of the trail have no signal.
10. Let someone know when and where you are going.
11. Keep at least two bike lengths between you and the rider in front of you.
12. Learn to change your tires and carry a spare tire or a patch kit. Learn to put your bike chain back on the derailleur if it comes off.
13. Use extreme caution when the trail is wet.
14. Use extra caution when crossing roads, bridges and driveways.
15. Obey all traffic signs and signals.
16. Install and use a rearview mirror.
17. Try to out-ride dogs; if this is not possible, get off your bike and put the bike between you and the dog.
18. Be aware of road conditions and ride accordingly.
19. Watch for wet leaves and fallen branches.
20. If you are not riding your bike, pull off the trail pavement completely.
21. Do not ride after dark.
22. Use hand signals when turning or stopping.
23. Ride carefully around cars (People don't look for cyclists when they open doors).
24. Maintain your bicycle-keep the gears oiled, the brakes working and the seat properly adjusted for your height.
25. Familiarize yourself with and follow all posted trail rules.

Tips for Beginner Cyclists

1. Try to cycle using the same revolutions per minute by changing the gears to adjust for hills and wind. In other words, ride at a comfortable cadence, using the gears if you need more or less tension.
2. Wear stiff-soled shoes and pedal with the balls of your feet. Toes clips and cleats help to keep your feet in the right place. The balls of your feet (not the arch) should be directly above the axle of the pedal.
3. Wear layers if it is cool so you can adjust to the changes in the temperature.
4. Bike bags that attach to the handlebars are great for storing necessities, and usually have a transparent pocket for the directions.
5. Bike computers are useful if you want to check mileage, cadence, time and distance.
6. Check for wind directions; if you are pedaling with the wind the head wind on the ride back may be strong.
7. Bike shorts with padding are great. They don't have seams, which can cause chaffing, and the padding makes the ride more comfortable.
8. If you are planning to do extended rides learn about bicycle maintenance

Tips for Dog Walkers

1. Keep all pets on a leash.
2. Keep pets under control at all times.
3. Aggressive dogs are not allowed on the trail.
4. Report problem animals to local animal control.
5. Don't allow pets to mess on the trail.
6. Pick up after pets and clean trail if in case of "accidents".
7. Refer to the trail as the "Chief LaDoga" when walking your dog!