Safety

  1. On the Closer to Free Bike Ride, nothing is more important than your safety. Let us say that one more time: NOTHING IS MORE IMPORANT THAN YOUR SAFETY. We’ll reinforce our safety tips and regulations many times before you leave the Yale Bowl on Ride day, but please review and become familiar with the following to ensure that everyone has a safe and healthy ride.
  2. First and foremost, this is a ride and not a race. There is no clock. There is no “winner.” Don’t ride out of control or beyond your abilities. Listen to your body, stay hydrated and rest when you need to rest. We want to see all of you at the finish line.
  3. Always wear your helmet. Always wear your helmet. Did we mention to ALWAYS WEAR YOUR HELMET?
  4. Get your bike checked out by your favorite bike shop before the day of the Ride to make sure it’s safe and ready to go. If you need a bike shop, a few of our favorites are Devil's Gear in New Haven, Zane's Cycles in Branford, and D'Aniellos Amity Bicycles in Woodbridge.
  5. Remember, that except for the first portion of the route, you’ll be riding on roads that are open to traffic. And also remember that when a vehicle and a bicycle collide, the bicycle (and its rider) always loses. Be aware of vehicles at every moment and follow all traffic rules and signals (including stop signs!).
  6. Make eye contact with drivers at intersections and do not continue forward unless you’re positive that the driver sees you.
  7. You need to have all of your senses alert and ready while you ride, so NO EARPHONES may be used during the Ride. And if you want to make or take a phone call or send a text, pull over to the side of the road first. DO NOT USE A MOBILE DEVICE WHILE YOU ARE RIDING.
  8. Ride single file and use hand signals and verbal cues to alert other riders. When passing another rider (always on the left), be sure to call out “ON YOUR LEFT” in a loud and clear voice. Alert riders behind you to debris or other obstacles in the road by pointing to the obstacle and calling out, “glass!” or “obstacle!”
  9. You can learn more about cycling safely at BicycleSafe.com.
  10. Remember, nothing is more important than your safety!