Oregon State University is one of the top bicycle-friendly college campuses. Not only is the campus bicycle friendly, but the City of Corvallis is, too. In Corvallis, 97 percent of all streets have bicycle lanes. Recent studies show that 40 percent of faculty and 30 percent of students who live off campus bike to the university.
How can you stay safe when biking to or from campus?
1. Wear a helmet.
I know. Helmets are not the most stylish accessories out there, but it is the one thing preventing major head or facial injuries. According to Bicycle Helmet Statistics “Helmets reduce bicycle-related head and facial injuries for bicyclists of all ages involved in all types of crashes, including those involving motor vehicles.”
2. Know your bicycle signals.
To prevent accidents with other bicyclists, motor vehicles, or pedestrians it is important to know all of the bicycle hand signals.
There is also a alternative right signal. It is used as an alternative because it is not as easy for the traffic on the left of you to see. If you really can't use the right turn signal you can use the alternative.
3. Make sure you can be seen.
It is very important, no matter what time of day, that you are noticed by motor vehicles, pedestrians, or other bicyclists. Neon or fluorescent colors are the best to wear. Clothing that reflects light is also a good option. At night, make sure you have one light in the front of your bike and one light in the back that can be seen from a distance of 500 feet. Just because you can see a driver, bicyclist, or pedestrian does not mean that they can see you.
4. Pass on the left and announce your presence.
You should always announce your presence by using the words "On your left". This lets whoever is in front of you move farther to the right. You cannot predict what the person ahead of you is going to do. Announcing your presence eliminates the risk of any accidents. You can also install a bicycle bell. Whistles and blow horns are prohibited by Oregon Law.
5. Use the bike lane.
The bike lane is there for you to utilize! When you are in the bike lane you must follow the rules of the road just like motor vehicles. That means stopping at stop signs, signaling your turns, and following the same flow as traffic. Bicycles are only allowed on the sidewalk going 5 miles per hour or less or if children are present.
6. Make sure your bicycle is up to the proper standards and safety regulations.
Bicycles must have rear brakes, but brakes in both the front and rear are recommended. A bicycle with hand brakes must be able to stop within 15 feet of use. The handle bars on any bike should be symmetrical and the ends should be no higher than 16 inches from the seat when in it's lowest position. Proper air pressure should be controlled in the tires at all times. This number is located on each individual tire. Wheels mus3t have spokes and the pedals must have tread on both sides. Click here for more specific bicycle safety requirements.
7. Be aware of your surroundings.
It is not illegal in the State of Oregon to ride your bike with headphones in, but most bicycle safety experts do not recommend it. If you choose to ride with headphones be aware of motor vehicles, other bicycles, and pedestrians. You need to be able to hear car horns, bicycle bells, or voices. Look both ways before crossing over streets and always check over your shoulder before changing lanes or turning.
8. Lock your bike.
Even if you are walking away for “just a second” it is best to lock up your bike. U-locks are one of the best kind of locks. Locking your bike from the frame instead of solely the tire is best. Make sure whatever you are locking your bike to is solidly connected to the ground and cannot be moved.
The Oregon State University Outdoor Equipment Rental and Bike/Ski Shop, located at Dixon Recreation Center, offers many different services.These services include repair or checking of tires, brakes, chains, or other gear. Bike safe Beavers!
