Below are some basic, as we like to call them, “no-brainers” in bicycle safety:
Make sure there is air in the tires of your bicycle.
Make sure that all working parts are well oiled, and screws and bolts are tightened down.
Make sure all spokes are intact.
Make sure the seat is comfortable and the right height, and that the bicycle handlebars are not loose.
When biking in the back country, or riding trails at your local forest preserves, make sure you have a water bottle with you, especially in case you have an accident and find yourself injured and unable to walk. Please refer to the Survive Outdoor section on Getting Lost and Getting Found for more information on survival techniques.
Children and adults alike should wear elbow and knee pads, as when falling off a bike, these are the sites that are frequently injured. Since the skin does not provide much padding in those locations, fractures and dislocations are very common. Elbow and kneepads are definitely beneficial from a safety standpoint, saving in potential hospital bills down the road. Although somewhat uncomfortable, it is certainly worth the precaution.
