Home		Through the years Bikers have gotten a bad reputation because a few of us disregard the rules of the trails and roads.  I don't like rules either, but if we don't follow them, the trails and streets we love to ride will be closed to bikes.  Bike Patrol Officer, John Kerrigan of the Midland Police Department - Midland, TX provided me with some helpful  information on street riding and I researched IMBA (International Mountain Bicycling Association) for ATB information.  Take the time to read over this and it may save your life or your favorite place to ride.
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To report drunk drivers or hazardous traffic conditions call: 1-800-525-5555

Off Road Riding

Safety and Etiquette on Texas State Parks’
Multi-Use Trails and in Primitive Areas

Trail Etiquette

1. Ride on open trails ONLY!
   Respect trail and road closures (ask if not sure), avoid possible trespass on private land, obtain permits or other authorization as may be required. Federal and state Wilderness areas are closed to cycling. The way you ride will influence trail management decisions and policies.
2. Leave no trace!
   Be sensitive to the dirt beneath you. Even on open (legal) trails, you should not ride under conditions where you will leave evidence of your passing, such as on certain soils after a rain. Recognize different types of soils and trail construction; practice low-impact cycling. This also means staying on existing trails and not creating new ones. Don't cut switchbacks. Be sure to pack out at least as much as you pack in.
3. Control your bike!
   Inattention for even a second can cause problems. Obey all bicycle speed regulations and recommendations.
4. Always yield the trail!
   Make known your approach well in advance. A friendly greeting or bell is considerate and works well; don't startle others. Show your respect when passing by slowing to a walking pace or even stopping. Anticipate other trail users around corners or in blind spots.
5. Never spook animals!
   All animals are startled by an unannounced approach, a sudden movement, or a loud noise. This can be dangerous for you, others, and the animals. Give animals extra room and time to adjust to you. When passing horses use special care and follow directions from the horseback riders (ask if uncertain). Running cattle and disturbing wildlife is a serious offense. Leave gates as you found them, or as marked.
6. Plan ahead!
   Know your equipment, your ability, and the area in which you are riding -- and prepare accordingly. Be self-sufficient at all times, keep your equipment in good repair, and carry necessary supplies for changes in weather or other conditions. A well-executed trip is a satisfaction to you and not a burden or offense to others. Always wear a helmet and appropriate safety gear.

KEEP TRAILS OPEN BY SETTING A GOOD EXAMPLE OF ENVIRONMENTALLY SOUND
AND SOCIALLY RESPONSIBLE OFF-ROAD CYCLING.

If you have any questions or comments, you can contact IMBA at:

IMBA
P.O. Box 7578
Boulder, CO 80306-7578 USA
Tel: 303/545-9011
Fax: 303/545-9026

Texas Drivers Handbook Texas Department of Public Safety (Chapter 13,#5):

Bicyclists are required to ride as far right in the lane as possible only when the lane can be safely shared by a car and a bicycle, side by side.  even then, there are certain conditions that allow a bicyclist to take the full lane, such as:

1. The person is overtaking and passing another vehicle proceeding in the same direction.
2. The person is preparing for a left turn at an intersection or onto a private road or driveway.
3. There are unsafe conditions on the roadway such as fixed or moving objects, parked or moving vehicles, pedestrians, animals, potholes, or debris.
4. The lane is of substandard width making it unsafe for a car and a bicycle to safely share the lane side by side.  When this is the case, it is best for the cyclist to take the full lane whether riding single file or two abreast.

Texas Bicycle Driver Rules: Texas Department of Public Safety:

1. Obey all traffic signs and signals.
2. Warn other traffic when stopping or turning by giving required hand signals with the left hand and arm.
3. Always ride as near to the right side of the road as possible and in the same direction as motor vehicles.
4. Be careful when passing parked vehicles or vehicles traveling in the same direction.
5. Not more than two bicycles may be driven side by side. (It is safer to ride single file.)
6. Do not ride double except on bicycles built for two persons.
7. Ride only upon the bicycle's regular seat.
8. Do not hitch to motor vehicles or streetcars.
9. Do not carry packages that will prevent keeping at least one hand on handlebars.
10. Always be alert for traffic from all directions.
11. Before leaving a driveway, alley, or when crossing a street or road, STOP, look both ways and wait for motor vehicles and pedestrians to pass.
12. Let pedestrians go first at street crossings and on sidewalks.
13. Get off the street or road and STOP when you hear the sirens of emergency vehicles.
14. Do not race with others on a Public Street or road.
15. Do not play riding games in the street or roadway.
16. Always keep your bicycle in good condition. Every bicycle shall have:
        a. Brakes that will skid the braked wheels on dry, level, clean pavement.
        b. When used at nighttime, the bicycle must have a white light on the front, which can be seen at least 500 feet.
        c. When used at nighttime, the bicycle may have a red taillight when can be seen at least 500 feet and must have a red reflector visible for 300 feet.
17. Wear your "crash helmet". A bike helmet could safe your life.
18. It is suggested that the parents or owners drivers license number be engraved on the bicycle frame. The serial number should be recorded to assist in finding stolen bicycles.
    EXAMPLE:    TX 00000000

All graphics and information copyright 1998-2001,  Steven M. Lawrence
Unless otherwise noted.