Best Practices for Safe Cycling
Safe biking is the best biking! The Bike Cave has resources to help you be safe and prepared on the road.
We suggest that everyone learn the "5 Rules of the Road"
- Follow the Law
- Be Predictable
- Be Conspicuous
- Think Ahead
- Ride Ready
Below are some of the things you can do to be safe and have a great ride.
Be aware
Constantly scan your surroundings including what is going on behind you.
![Earbuds on a red background](https://docs.gato.txst.edu/38264/w/2000/h5pPIyGtXvQf/headphone.jpg)
Don’t ride with headphones
Would you ride with your eyes closed? Cutting off any of your senses is dangerous. You need to give yourself every advantage when riding with car traffic or other bicycles.
![Be careful in wet weather](https://docs.gato.txst.edu/38262/w/2000/1Cjl9s66Enis/rain.jpg)
Be careful in wet weather
Bicycles stop differently in wet weather. Some take longer to slow the wheel. Others may lock the wheel, causing a skid or loss of control. Try your brakes in a safe area before heading out in wet weather.
![green bike box in San Marcos](https://docs.gato.txst.edu/38266/w/2000/2H6js7c121Jy/box_2_1.jpg)
Ride with the flow of traffic
Bicycles are legally obligated to ride with the flow of traffic just like a car. Not only is riding against traffic dangerous it is illegal.
![Welcome to Texas highway sign](https://docs.gato.txst.edu/38267/w/2000/1CeGnrKQdTIr/tx.png)
Abide by traffic signs
Stops signs and red lights apply just as much to cyclists as cars.
![bike at night with a headlight](https://docs.gato.txst.edu/38256/w/2000/0fLDRkEZtOu4/bikelight.jpg)
Use lights to ride at night
Bikes need to be ridden with lights at night to be legal and safe. Don’t leave home without them. The purpose of lights is to see and be seen.