#NewNormal: Safety tips for commuting on bike

As the Philippines relaxes travel restrictions and welcomes transition into the new normal, more people are turning to bike as their primary means of transportation.

While this is a good development, bike-commuting also comes with risks.

But don't quit on the idea just yet! To encourage you to get around on your two wheels, we've listed a few tips and reminders so you can move freely and safely!

@bubblesparaiso (IG)

Before heading out

Your safety begins even before you head out on your bike.

Bike magazine, bicycling.com, shares a few biking-to-work secrets from pro commuters.

@valdezkate_ (IG)

1. Be mentally and physically prepared

Biking requires both mental and physical preparedness. Balancing on wheels, traveling with other motorists, and traversing a good distance are no easy tasks especially when you consider the usual road situations in our country. It also gets more difficult now that everyone outside is required to wear a face mask.

So before jumping into the idea of bike commuting, make sure that you're healthy and up for the challenge. Fuel your body with good food and bring drinks for hydration. Psych yourself up and expect a few obstacles - just in case. It's okay to have a contingency plan, too!

2. Plan your route

Unfortunately, our cities weren't originally designed to be bike-friendly. And while establishing bike paths and lanes are still in the works, there are alternative streets that are less risky to take.

For a starter, it's safer to avoid major highways and flyovers. You can also familiarize yourself with the peak hours of traffic to know if you can avoid a big volume of road users during your commute.

You can refer to digital navigation sites and apps like Google Maps, Open Street Map, and Map My Ride to plan your route. Don't hesitate to consult people who are more experienced in bike commuting too.

3. Gear up

You need the proper attire and accessories when you ride your bike.

Rubber shoes or cleats, and jerseys or breathable clothes are the usual go-to pieces. You can choose to wear anything decent that also makes you feel comfortable and that won't bring you the hassle as you pedal your way through the city. But most importantly, bikers should wear a helmet!

Consider the weather when you gear up, too. Bring a raincoat if you're expecting rain, or wear something cool and breezy if the weather is hot. You can also wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from the sun and from any debris.

In this new normal, don't forget to wear a face mask! It might also be good to bring an extra so you can use a new mask by the time you reach your destination. Biking will most likely make you sweat and your sweat might compromise the quality of your face mask.

4. Bring other essential items

Don't forget to pack essential items that will come in handy once you're on the road.

Accessorize with bike lights and wear something that will make you visible in the dark. Bring a bike lock so you can secure your bike when you reach your destination. It won't hurt to bring your own bike repair kit and first aid kit, too.

On the streets

When you bike commute, you just don't want to get from point A to point B. You want to do so safely and free of injury. Lifestyle websites like momentummag.com and active.com also discuss a few cycling etiquettes once you hit the road.

@iamkaradavid (IG)

1. Be mindful of other road users and your surroundings

When you bike, you'd be riding along with other vehicles and fellow bikers, and you'd be encountering pedestrians too. And while you can't control their actions and behaviors, you can do something to protect yourself.

Keep a good distance from other road users. Be patient, be polite, and share the road. Watch out for vehicles turning right. Watch out for car doors too, and of people crossing the streets.

Pay attention to your surroundings. There might be roadblocks or obstructions along the way.

Also, recognize for yourself if you can bike through a specific terrain. Maybe you'd rather go down and push your bike when there's an uphill, or maybe you'd prefer to take a more comfortable route.

Avoid wearing earphones or using your mobile phone so you can hear and see what's going on around you. Your undivided attention is needed on the road.

2. Observe traffic and use signals

A bike is considered a vehicle so you must follow rules on the road, too. Ride with traffic, not against it. Stay on your lane. Be careful when you make turns especially on your left. Avoid weaving your way even through stopped traffic.

Make sure it's safe and clear before thinking of overtaking someone on the road. Do shoulder checks and use hand signals to warn other road users and do it early enough to give them time to react.

3. Take your time but be predictable

Bike commuting is not a race. Don't challenge fellow bikers, or worse, motorized vehicles on who can ride faster. Watch your speed even in the bike lane. It's recommended to bike in a straight line and maintain a consistent speed whenever possible.

If you feel bad or uncomfortable, it's okay to pull over and stop riding. Just avoid making an abrupt stop.

Reaching your destination

Your “battle” on the road is almost done as you arrive at your destination and until you hit the road again on your way back. However, take note of these tips too.

@vicosotto (IG)

1. Park your bike properly

This is not so common yet in the Philippines but try and find a parking space dedicated to bikes. Parking your bike should not cause inconvenience to pedestrians or other vehicles. If you find a bike rack, use it properly and be considerate of other bikers.

2. Secure your bike

Don't forget to lock your bike. Use trusty locks that can't be cut and torn easily, and it's recommended to thread your lock through a wheel and your bike frame. You can also use a bike cover to prevent its exposure to harsh elements.

These sound like a big task and it may appear a bit intimidating if you're new to cycling or bike commuting. But knowing and practicing these safety tips can get you into the groove of this new normal in no time.

Remember, safety always comes first! Take care, and enjoy cycling!