20 Easy and Effective Ways to Ride Your Mountain Bike in Traffic that Will Keep You Safe

Maintain a safe distance between you and others on the road whether it is a car or another cyclist. If you are not sure what qualifies as a safe distance, bear in mind that at least four feet between you and a vehicle is a great place to be.

Do not hug the curb too much. This could end in a crash should you take a corner too sharply.

If you a riding with a group, you need to make sure you are riding single file. (In many states this is required by law. Depending on the state legislations and the area you might be able to ride two by two but be aware of the local laws before heading out on a ride).

Avoid riding on sidewalks unless there is not another safe option available. In many cities there are specific bike lanes in which cyclists can ride.

Be aware of cars coming out of alleys or making a turn on a blind corner. Always look and make yourself aware of your surroundings. This is why it is not recommended to ride your mountain bike with headphones in your ears.

Do not pass fellow cyclists on the right side.

If you need to, make some noise. Use a bell, a horn, a whistle, or simply shout out should you need to make someone aware of your presence.

If you are on a busy street, do not weave in and out of the parked or unmoving cars. You should keep a straight path so to avoid any opening car doors.

If you are in heavy, slow moving traffic, it is sometimes best to ride in the center of the lane to keep yourself highly visible and also prevent cars from trying to swerve around you.

Always be ready to brake. Keep your fingers in place, ready to push the brake levers so you can stop as quickly as you need to.

Remember to pedal quickly and strongly when you are going through an intersection.

If you have noticed that five or more cars have started to line up behind you, it is best for you to pull over and let them pass. You should do your best to avoid clogging up the flow of traffic.

Be predictable.

Communicate to other cyclists and motorists as much as possible. You can use blinking lights, horns or bells, or hand signals. (Bear in mind some people out on the road might not be familiar with hand signals, so be prepared to use multiple ways to communicate your movements on the road).

Remain friendly with other motorists by smiling and making eye contact. This will put motorists at ease as well as communicate your intentions.

Be aware of certain factors that can and will cause an accident. These risk factors include:

Always ride your mountain bike with confidence. When you are a nervous, wobbly rider you can cause an accident. If you and/or your riding group ride as self-assured, respectful, and courteous riders, you will be more likely to be given extra room to ride as well as respect from fellow motorists.

Stay as far right as you can, keeping the curb in mind.

Check behind your bike often. This can be done by simply looking over your shoulder or by wearing a mounted mirror.

Brace yourself for a vehicle that intends to pass you. Remember any passing vehicle will create a draft of wind when they pass so expect this when a vehicle wants to pass you. (Bear in mind that any passing vehicle will create a ‘pull’ that will affect your bike by pulling it forward and towards the passing vehicle.)