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Safe and Enjoyable Biking
It is important to be prepared for the unexpected, whether road bicycling
or mountain biking.
Here are a few tips for a safe and enjoyable trip:
1. Wear a helmet. All bicyclists
under age 14 are required by New York State to wear an approved bicycle
helmet.
2. Make sure your bicycle is in good working order.
3. Carry water, high-energy snacks, pump and patch kit, basic tool kit,
first aid kit, map and compass.
4. Confirm your route with someone knowledgeable of the area, such as
a local bicycle shop.
5. Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return.
6. Know your ability, especially that of the least experienced member
of your party.
7. Use caution on wet surfaces.
In New York, the same laws that apply to a driver of a vehicle apply to
bicyclists using the roadways. Bicyclists must obey all traffic signals,
signs and pavement markings, and must signal for turns. Bicyclists gain
the respect of motorists by obeying traffic laws. In addition, the following
recommendations lead to safe and efficient riding with traffic:
• Be predictable. Always ride with traffic. Cycle single file and
to the far right.
• Be conspicuous. Wear bright clothing and a helmet. Make your intentions
known to motorists.
• Be alert. Do not assume that you have the right-of-way. Make eye
contact with motorists at intersections.
Responsible Mountain Biking
Respect for private property and low impact use of State lands are two
important considerations while mountain biking in the Adirondack North
Country region which is a mix of public and private
lands.
Mountain biking on private
lands is only by permission. The Adirondack Forest Preserve lands consist
of both Wild Forest and Wilderness classifications. Bicycles are permitted
on lands classified as Wild Forest on existing trails and roads, unless
specifically prohibited due to current or potential environmental damage,
user conflicts, or safety concerns.
Bicycles are prohibited on forest
preserve lands classified as Wilderness.
Always be considerate of other trail users to ensure future access to
trails.
Be aware that you are sharing trails with hikers and equestrians. Maintain
a prudent speed and anticipate that other trail users may be around blind
corners. When encountering hikers, slow down or pull off to let them by.
If approaching from behind, let them know you are there with a friendly
greeting. When approaching horses from the front, always stop and let
them pass. When approaching horses from the rear, wait for instructions
on how to proceed. Be prepared to walk around.
In some areas, you may be using logging roads that are transportation
corridors for the working forest. Forest products companies may privately
own the lands, with public recreational use allowed through easement agreements
with New York State. Be considerate and safe by pulling off to let logging
trucks pass.
Always pack out what you pack in. Set a good example — other mountain
bicyclists will be judged by your actions.
For more Bicycle Safety information, contact the Governor’s
Traffic Safety Committee, http://www.nysgtsc.state.ny.us/bike-ndx.htm,
518-474-5111, or your local AAA office.
For additional information on "soft cycling" (minimizing impact
on resources and other users), visit the Website (http://www.imba.com/resources/soft_cycling/sharetrails.html)
of the International Mountain Biking Association (IMBA).
Always wear a Helmet!
Bicycle Helmet Safety Institute
http://www.helmets.org/
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