Bike Safety

Rules of the Road

Bicycles are legally classified as vehicles, and have the same rights and responsibilities as a motor vehicle on NC roadways. Bicyclists can ride on any road except limited access highways (if it has an on-ramp, it’s off-limits).

Bicyclists are entitled to use the full lane. Vehicles going less than the speed limit should operate as far right as practicable WITHIN the travel lane. (That doesn’t mean biking in the parking lane or on the shoulder – bicycles are more visible and predictable when riding in the travel lane). “As far right as practicable” does not mean when turning left, passing, or when unsafe due to roadway width, debris, traffic conditions, or proximity to parked cars. Never ride within a door’s width of a parked vehicle.

  • Obey all traffic signs and signals. Stop at stop signs, red lights, etc. “Drive your bike”
  • Never ride against traffic. Go with the flow!
  • Make eye contact with drivers; be sure you are seen.
  • Use front and rear lights when riding at night or in low light conditions. (Visible up to 300ft)
  • Use hand signals to indicate turns and stops.
  • Be predictable. Don’t swerve in and out of the parking lane.
  • Bicyclists may ride two abreast. Riding side by side increases visibility, decreases passing distance, and is more fun!
  • Yes, you can get a DUI on a bicycle.
  • If your bicycle does not trigger a traffic light, you may treat it as a broken light and proceed when safe.
  • Unsanctioned bicycle racing is prohibited.
  • Bicyclists cannot pass cars on the right if there’s no travel lane to do so. (No “filtering”)

Rules of the Sidewalk/Greenway

Bicyclists may ride on sidewalks in our region except in the Asheville Central Business District or in the Town of Biltmore Forest.

  • Go slow on the sidewalk. Sidewalks are designed for walking speed.
  • Always yield to pedestrians.
  • Slow down and scoot over to pass. It’s polite to give an audible warning (ring a bell, or say “coming up on your left!”)
  • Ride on the right, pass on the left, just like in the street!
  • Dismount and walk when sidewalks are too crowded.
  • Check every crosswalk and driveway. Vehicles often pull across the sidewalk before entering traffic, or turn into driveways without scanning for people on bikes. These are the places where collisions are most common.

How to Lock Your Bike

  1. Always lock your bike, even if you’re only walking away from it for a minute.
  2. Lock your bike through the frame. The frame is the parts of the bike that are welded together and do not move. If you are worried about your wheels being stolen, you can lock your bike through the frame AND the wheel, but never lock it only through the wheel – wheels are easy to remove!
  3. Use a good bike lock. U-locks or chains are recommended. Steer clear of cable locks to ensure your bike is as safe as it can be.
  4. Make sure your bike and lock are affixed to a sturdy object that can’t be picked up or taken apart.

Helmet Fit

Helmets are legally required for children under age 16.

Use the 2-V-1 rule for proper helmet fit:

  • The front of the helmet should rest in the center of your forehead. If you place two fingers above your eyebrow, the top finger should touch the bottom of your helmet.
  • The straps should form a V under your ears.
  • You should be able to fit one finger under your chin when the strap is buckled.

Test your fit by unbuckling the helmet strap and leaning all the way over. Your helmet shouldn’t slide or fall off if properly fitted.