You are responsible for your own safety! Biking and mountain biking have their own inherent risks and bikers assume complete responsibility for their own safety.
Always wear a helmet and fasten it. Helmets protect your head.
Shift into lower gears when biking up hills to reserve energy.
Wear bright clothing so drivers and other trail users can see you.
Be courteous to horseback riders on multiple use trails, horses may be easily spooked.
Obey the rules of the road. Bikers must stop at all stop signs and traffic lights and use turning signals, just like other vehicles.
Ride on the right hand side of the road, in the same direction as traffic.
Look both ways at intersections or driveways. Be on the lookout for people who may not see you.
Keep your bike tuned up to prevent mechanical problems.
Protect your bike. Lock it up or keep it in a safe place when not in use.
Ride with friends. It's more fun and you have someone to help you if you need it.
Leave a copy of your itinerary with a responsible person.
Additional mountain bike safety tips
Always wear a helmet and fasten it. Helmets protect your head.
Let other trail users know that you are passing by calling out "on your left!"
Lower your tire pressure for better traction control.
Lower your seat to help keep your center of gravity on long downhills.
Use the brakes intermittently on rough terrain.
Bring repair equipment, it could be a long hike if you have mechanical problems.
Be aware of your surroundings, other trail users, and ride in control at all times.
