ETIQUETTE – SAFETY – FUN!
Etiquette – A little courtesy goes a long way. Remember – this is NOT a race!
- Faster riders are more than welcome to ride in the road adjacent to the trail routes if they’re comfortable. No roads are closed to automobile traffic. IMPORTANT NOTE ON-ROAD ROUTES ARE NOT ALWAYS PHYSICALLY MARKED FOR NAVIGATION – we suggest downloading the Ride with GPS links if you want navigation.
- Faster riders should be patient/courteous with slower and especially younger riders. Please wait until it’s safe to pass and give warning whenever possible via audible “on your left” or ringing bells.
- Remember to follow all bicycle traffic laws and set a good example for other riders.
- Remember that trails are open to the general public and many are designated for two-way travel. Ride single-file when oncoming trail users are present.
- Don’t clog intersections when stopped.
- Be a good example for other riders you see whether they’re a part of the ride that day or not.
- Respect and appreciate volunteers and partners. A ton of volunteer and staff time goes into planning, implementing and evaluating these events to maintain and improve their level of quality.
Safety – In addition to following the aforementioned bicycle laws, practicing good safety habits will keep you and your fellow Twin Cities Bike Tour riders safe.
- Always follow the direction of one-way trails – do NOT ride against traffic.
- Make sure your bicycle is in good working order. An ABC quick check can go a long way to prevent incidents stemming from mechanical issues. Carry a correct sized spare tube with you even if you don’t know how to change a tube so a Ride Marshal or rest stop mechanic can assist you. Don’t know what size to get? Head to your local bike shop with your bike and they’ll assist you.
- Make sure YOU are in good working order. Take a few bike rides leading up to the event. Know your pace and stretch before and after riding.
- Wear a proper fitting helmet. Even when exercising great caution, serious crashes can still occur. Mitigate the risk of serious injury by protecting your brain.
- The forecast always calls for unpredictability when it comes to Minnesota weather. Remember that roads are the most slippery just as it begins to rain and days with exceptional heat will require more hydration and more rest periods, but recall that the Twin Cities Bike Tour rolls day or shine except for the most extreme weather.
Fun – The key to getting many of us on our bikes for the first or 1000th time is Fun!
- Bring the family, friends, neighbors and co-workers and start a new fall Twin Cities tradition!
- Decorate your bike
- Wear a fun costume
- Crank up the tunes (Let’s keep it PG for the kiddos folks!)
All Routes Lead to a More Bike-Friendly Minnesota
By registering for the Twin Cities Bike Tour, you directly contribute to improving walkability and bikeability in communities across Minnesota. The ride benefits the Bicycle Alliance of Minnesota (a 501(c)(3) nonprofit – federal tax ID number is 41-1719332). Thank you for your support!
Get Riding Today
Check out some of the areas the tour will cover in Minneapolis and Saint Paul.
