In Kansas, bicyclists are required to follow the
same rules of the road as motorists. Please ride
safely, be courteous to other roadway users, and
abide by all Kansas traffic laws. Always ride a
well-maintained bicycle and know your riding limitations.
You should be able to ride comfortably with minimal
strain at least half of the total distance planned
to be covered each day of your tour.
Helmets: Bicyclists are strongly encouraged to
wear American National Standards Institute (ANSI),
or the American Society for Testing and Materials
(ASTM), or Snell Memorial Foundation (Snell)
approved helmets at all times.
Paved Shoulders: Bicyclists are strongly encouraged
to ride on paved shoulders which are equal to
or greater than three feet in width whenever they
are available.
Ride to the Right, With Traffic: Ride with normal
traffic flow and ride to the right side of the
roadway. If lane width allows, stay two feet from
the curb or roadway edge which will allow you
maneuvering space to avoid debris or potholes.
Lane markings are for your safety and benefit.
Be Predictable: Do not surprise a motorist, pedestrian
or other bicyclist. Hold your line. Act predictably
and avoid sudden movements. Do not show off by
stunting or weaving in traffic.
Group Riding: Ride in single file on the right
side of the roadway. Avoid overlapping wheels.
Use Arm Signals: Signaling intentions is essential
to let motorists and riding companions know what
you are about to do. Arm Signals to use are left, right, slow, and stop.
Pedestrians: Remember that pedestrians have the
right-of-way.
Be Easily Seen: Wear brightly colored clothing
and have reflectors on your bicycle. When riding
after dusk, the bicycle must be equipped with
a white light visible at 500 feet ahead and have
a reflector visible at least 500 feet to rear.
A flag is useful in increasing your visibility
on rural roads.
Child Carriers: Carriers must offer the child
protection from rear wheel spokes and a strap
to secure the child.
Railroad Tracks: Stop within 15 feet of railroad
crossings. Cross railroad tracks at right angles.
Trains always have the right-of-way.
Other Important Safety Tips: Be extra careful
at intersections, listen for overtaking vehicles,
brake carefully in wet weather or on slippery
surfaces, load your bicycle correctly, drink and
eat properly, and be careful of dogs and other
animals.
RIDE DEFENSIVELY:
MAINTAIN A SAFETY FIRST ATTITUDE. IN A CRASH,
WHETHER YOUR FAULT OR NOT YOUR FAULT YOU LOSE.
USE ALL YOUR ABILITIES TO PROTECT YOURSELF
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