Bikeability positions
You learn where to ride on the road, and why: keep a door away from parked cars, take the middle of the lane where it is narrow.
How to know who goes first
- Ride a car door away from parked cars.
- Take the middle of the lane where it is narrow.
- Look behind you before you move out.
A worked example
There are parked cars at the side. Where do you ride?
- Look at the parked cars.
- A car door can open.
- Ride at least a car door away from the cars, so you are not in the way.
More examples
The road is narrow, and a car wants to overtake you.
- Ride in the middle of the lane.
- This is the primary position.
- The driver then waits for a safe place to pass.
You want to turn right. What do you do first?
- Look over your shoulder.
- This is the lifesaver look.
- Then signal, and then move out.
Try it yourself
Riding in the middle of the lane, so cars cannot squeeze past, is called the ____ position. Type the missing word.
A quick look over your shoulder before you turn or pull out is called a ____ look. Type the missing word.
Watch out
You ride close to the parked cars to give cars room.
That is the danger zone. A door can open in front of you.
Tips
- The primary position is the middle of the lane.
- Make eye contact with drivers at junctions.
Why it works
Bikeability teaches you to choose your place on the road. Ride at least a car door away from parked cars. In narrow places, ride in the middle of the lane so cars cannot squeeze past. Look behind you before you move out.