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Cycling Resources

Learn the Parts of a Bike

bike components

Rules of the Road

Many of the same laws that apply to motor vehicle drivers also apply to cyclists. Bicyclists must obey and are protected by the rules of the road:

  • Obey all traffic signals and stop signs.
  • Signal for turns

turn signals

  • Pedestrians have the right of way. Yield to people walking.
  • Use the same through or turning lanes as drivers. If you feel uncomfortable at an intersection, dismount and use the pedestrian crosswalk, especially in heavy traffic.
  • If there is a bike lane and it is unobstructed by debris, cars, or other hazards, use it.
  • If a road has no bike lane, ride within the roadway shoulder if it's available. Finding and riding routes within the bike boulevard network can help you follow more comfortable routes with lower traffic volumes and lower speeds.
  • To ride a personal or Project MOVER e-bike in New York, you do not need a driver’s license.
  • You must be at least 16 years old to ride an e-bike in New York State.

Safety Tips for Biking in Traffic

DOs:

  • Wear a helmet. A properly fitted helmet should be level on the top of your head and not be able to wiggle in any direction.
  • Keep enough distance between yourself and other riders or vehicles to react to anything unexpected. In general, aim to stay at least 2 bike lengths in front of and behind e-bikes and at least 4 feet between vehicles next to you.
  • Be ready to brake. Keep your hands on or near the brakes on the handlebar so you can stop quickly.
  • Ride in the same direction as vehicle traffic, and ride in a single file line and not side-to-side with other bicyclists.
  • When needing to get someone’s attention, be loud—use a bell, whistle, or just yell.
  • Be visible. It’s often safer to ride in the middle of a traffic lane so that everyone can see you and cars won’t try to squeeze around you.
  • Use hand signals whenever you turn or stop but assume that those signals might not be understood by every driver.
  • Keep to one rider per bike, except when there is an infant/child seat.

DON’Ts:

  • Don’t ride too close to the curb. Aim to keep at least a foot of comfortable distance from the pavement edge.
  • Don’t ride on sidewalks. Walk your bike on the sidewalk if no other safe option for riding exists.
  • Don’t swerve back and forth around parked cars or other obstacles.
  • Don’t ride wearing headphones, earbuds, or other audio devices.

Visit The League of American Bicyclists website to watch Smart Cycling videos on riding tips, driver tips, and bike maintenance!