It’s that time of year again – bike season is here and I know many of you are excited to hit the streets and enjoy the fresh air and sunshine on two wheels.

Before you hop on your bike and start peddling away, there are some important rules and parameters you should be aware of to ensure a safe and a enjoyable ride for yourself and those around you.

First and foremost, let’s talk about safety. Wearing a helmet is a must – it can literally save your life in the event of a crash. Make sure it fits properly and is securely fastened before you start riding. Also, be sure to check that your bike is in good working condition before heading out – check the brakes, tires, and gears to make sure everything is functioning properly.

When you’re out on the road, remember to always ride with traffic, not against it. Obey all traffic signals and signs, and use hand signals to indicate turns and stops. Be aware of your surroundings and always assume that drivers may not see you – make eye contact with drivers whenever possible to ensure they know you are there.

It’s also important to share the road with pedestrians and other cyclists. Be courteous and respectful to others using the road or bike path, and always yield to pedestrians. When passing another cyclist, give them plenty of space and alert them with a friendly “on your left” to let them know you’re coming. Recently we have seen a big increase in designated bike paths throughout our city. Use them for your protection especially on the one way streets.

The biggest failure I witness here in Regina, is cyclists crossing the street while riding their bike. You are, by law, to get off and walk across like a pedestrian. This is where the most accidents happen.

Lastly, but certainly not least, you need a good bike lock to secure your bike. Bike thefts are a big crime and the thief’s are brazen so be sure to lock it down properly when not in use.

have fun! Riding a bike is a great way to stay active, reduce your carbon footprint, and explore your city in a whole new way. So grab your helmet, check your brakes, and hit the road with confidence knowing that you are following the rules of the road and staying safe.

Let’s be responsible and respectfull. So let’s pedal our way to a fun and safe summer on two wheels! #BikeSeasonSafety #RideResponsibly