[capt_noonie]

Since summer is coming up I thought I'd put out this thread for people who might need a bit of a refresher course on bike riding and safety.

Riding against traffic
One of the potentially most dangerous situations occur is when riding on the sidewalk going the opposite of traffic. We get lots of people coming into our shop saying they were hit by a car. I always ask if they were riding on the sidewalk in the opposite direction of traffic and 9 times out of 10 they say yes. The reason for this is bc when a driver comes out of a driveway or parking lot and wanting to turn right onto a street, they instinctively look to the left for oncoming car traffic. However, they are not usually also looking right for potential pedestrian or bike traffic. How many of you are guilty of doing this? I suggest riding in a bike lane, and if there is none, riding on the shoulder. However if you must ride on the sidewalk, or just feel more comfortable riding on the sidewalk, please please ride with traffic and not against it. If for some reason you must ride against traffic, never assume that the driver of the car can see you. And even if you make eye contact, never assume they will yield for you. Ride behind the car if you must, or stop and wait for them to pass.

Riding with yorkies in baskets
Dogs in baskets are generally ok if the dog does not weigh much. I would say the cut off would be about 7 lbs or so. The reason is bc too much weight up front will throw off your steering. If you have a larger yorkie, the best place for them would be on a rear luggage rack with a crate or rear specific basket securely fastened on. Of course, always make sure your yorkie is properly restrained in there. Many dogs are comfortable right off the bat on a bike, but some are not. You must train them for bike riding. Go slowly at first, perhaps around the neighborhood. Don't take them out for the first time to a busy beach or on a busy road.

Helmets
Please wear a helmet! You don't have to buy a fancy expensive helmet. All helmets sold in the US are up to code, so don't think that a cheaper one isn't as good. It's still better than no helmet! They even make little yorkie helmets!

Before each ride
Check your tire pressure and your brakes before you head off. Every single time!

Please feel free to add to this list. I know we have some bike riders here, if there's something that you feel I missed please post it. These are the major points I wanted to hit. The weather is getting nice now and lots of people are dusting off their bikes for the summer, but cycling can be a very dangerous activity if you're not careful!

Also if anyone has any bike related questions, please ask me and I'll do my best to help. Like how to adjust brakes, changing tubes/tires, gears not shifting correctly, etc.