Bike Basics
Bike Resources
Whether you are trying to commute by bike for the first time or are a seasoned bike commuter, this info should help give you the tools you need to ride in May and beyond
Safety on the Road
Here’s what you need to know as a cyclist about sharing the road:
- Follow all traffic laws. Yes, this means stopping at a red light, biking in the right lane, making left turns from the appropriate lane and signaling all turns.
- Ride on the road. Many riders feel safer riding on the sidewalk than the street, but studies have found that it is actually safer on the road because drivers are more aware of your presence. Links to these studies can be found on our website http://www.getdowntown.org/bike/bike_safety.html .
- We also have bike maps available that let you know the best roads to use for cycling. More information on Bike Maps is here: http://www.getdowntown.org/bike/bike_maps.html
- Give yourself three feet. Three feet of distance between you and parked cars is best. When you’re moving fast, it is easy to not notice an opening car door and other obstacles.
- Be seen and be safe. We’re talking bright colored clothing, a front and back light (some of the new LED lights available around town are very cool!) and driving in areas where motorists will be aware of your presence. Also, wear a helmet, you never know when this may save your life!
The League of Michigan Bicyclists has a wealth of resources for Bike Commuters on its website: http://www.lmb.org/pages/Resources/edu_adv/BicycleCommuting.htm
These are just a few tips to keep you safe on the road. Sharing the road requires communication among everyone. If you have a bad experience riding your bike, report it to the Ann Arbor Police Department!
Resources for Ann Arbor
The getDowntown program is here to help make your bike commute a little easier. A few things available to you:
- Bike Lockers. Are you worried about leaving your bike outside all day? For $60 a year you may rent a bike locker at 7 locations around the downtown area. This can give you a sense of security of your bike location and you will never need to worry where you parked your bike! For more information, please visit: http://www.getdowntown.org/bike/bike_parking.htm.
- Washtenaw County Bike Maps. Maps are available online at http://www.getdowntown.org/bike/bike_maps.html or you may purchase a paper copy at locations around
- Bikes on the bus. If your trip is a little longer than you expected, or maybe you only want to bike home from work, learn how to combine your trip. All AATA buses are equipped with a front bike rack. Learn more here: http://www.getdowntown.org/bus/bikes_bus.html
- For a list of all of the Bike Shops in the Ann Arbor area, click here: http://www.getdowntown.org/bike/resources_bicyclists.html
- Check out all of the Bike-related events during Curb Your Car Month here: http://www.getdowntown.org/bike/
A Few Upcoming Bumps in the Road
It’s that time a year again! As all of us Michiganders know, summer time means construction time. Check out all detours and delays here: http://www.getdowntown.org/resources/Construction_x_Event_Information.html
Get Involved
Whether you are new to riding or have been riding since the invention of the wheel, there are many ways you can get more involved with riding. Check out some of these local groups and events:
- Washtenaw Biking & Walking Coalition: Provides advocacy and information to promote cycling and walking in Washtenaw County: www.wbwc.org
- League of
- Ann Arbor Bicycle Touring Society: Organizes a variety of day trips to meet your sense of adventure! www.aabts.org
- BIke Ypsi: A Brand new group that organizes rides and advocates for cyclists who live and ride in Ypsilanti. bikeypsi.org
- And of course, getDowntown, offers all sorts of resources for cyclists on our website: http://www.getdowntown.org/bike/resources_bicyclists.html
