You are reading the Original Version (CLB5+) Read Simple Version (CLB3-4) Summer is here! It’s the best time to get on your bike and enjoy the weather. Biking is one of the best ways to see the sights and get some exercise as well. It’s a wonderful activity that you can share with your family. To have a great time out there, here are some safety rules you should know and follow: Did you know that it’s illegal to ride your bike on the sidewalk? Unless you’re on a kid’s bike or a sign tells you otherwise, the sidewalk is mainly for pedestrians. It’s actually safer to bike on the road compared to the sidewalk. There are rules on the road; there are none on the sidewalk. Watch this video from the Manitoba Cycling Association to know how to navigate the road safely: CAN-BIKE // Traffic Skills 101 from Manitoba Cycling Association on Vimeo. Important tips to remember: Download Bike Safely from Manitoba Public Insurance to have a handy guide for proper safety gear, rules for sharing the road and common traffic situations. And one more thing… If you’re biking with your little ones, the safest option is a bicycle trailer since it is stable and has protection against the rain. The trailer should be equipped with a flag so that road users can see it. Older kids who have their own bikes can ride on the road with you but make sure that you give them a few safety instructions. Go in a single file if you’re riding with the entire family and keep kids in the middle of your group. They’ll have someone to follow for the right direction (preferably an adult) and someone who is behind them (another adult) to warn them of possible hazards. Everyone should have proper helmets and gear (read Getting ready to bike safely for tips on getting the right bike, helmet and other safety gear). Watch this video from REI more tips on riding with kids: Tips for teaching your kids how to ride: The I cycle safely brochure is a handy booklet on bike safety for your kids. For more tips on cycling in Winnipeg, go to the Bike Winnipeg site. Get the latest Winnipeg Cycling Map to plan your bicycle trip. You can also pick up a printed copy at local libraries, bike shops and tourist centres. Explore beautiful Manitoba with your family. Explore the 4 family-friendly biking trails in Manitoba. Download the Newcomers Guide to Cycling as a reminder. Please login to tell us what you think.Skip to:
Cycling rules newcomers should know
Never cross the pedestrian lane on your bike. If you need to use the pedestrian crosswalk, the proper way is to get off your bike so that you will be treated like a pedestrian. Stop, get off your bike, check the traffic lights, push the button to activate the warning light, and step off the curb only when traffic stops. When it’s your turn to cross, walk with your bike on your side. Get on the bike only when you have safely reached the other side of the street.Biking with kids
Sources: Bike Safely, MPI; Ride Safe this Summer, Manitoba Health page; Bike Safety, CAA; and Manitoba Cycling Association videos on Vimeo. Accessed May 22, 2019.Community Resources
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