Bike to Work Week 2015 is May 11-15!

We hope you’ll ride your bike to work or school!

Please follow these bicycle safety tips:

• Wear a helmet (make sure it fits right!)
• Wear bright colors. You want to be noticed by motorists
• Ride on the sidewalk ONLY when absolutely necessary. On a personal note: we realize that riding on Broadway in De Pere can be daunting, but please use the Fox River Trail to bypass  this area if you are just riding through. Riding on the sidewalk is dangerous to you AND pedestrians. WE have seen some very close calls right outside out studio because cyclists are riding fast on the sidewalk and unsuspecting pedestrians step out of businesses nearly get clipped. (OK, off my soapbox)
• Follow all traffic laws. Obey signs and traffic lights.
• Use hand signals. This tells motorists what you are intending to do. Be predictable!
• Beware of parked car doors-they can open at any time. Give 5 feet of clearance if you can see a person in the car.
• Never ride against traffic. Motorists are more likely to see you.
• Ride in single file. Except when passing
• Be alert. Always know your surroundings. Do not wear headphones!
• Alert slower riders and pedestrians if you are going to pass them on shared trails (such as the Fox River or East River Trail)

Get your bike ready to go!

• Clean the bike thoroughly, using a brush and a damp cloth (not too much water). As you go over all the parts of the bike, check everything for wear and tear.
• Inspect the brake pads. They should be evenly worn and smooth, not hard. Most will have grooves or marks on them to indicate when they need to be replaced. Squeeze the brakes a few times to make sure they are functioning well.
• Tighten any loose bolts or screws.
• Spin the pedals and wheels (with the rear wheel elevated) to see if they are true (not wobbly). Also check each gear. If it’s difficult to shift from one gear to the next, you may need a new chain or derailleur.
• Lubricate the chain.
• Inflate the tires (after inspecting them for splits, tears, or bubbles). They should be firm but not close to bursting.