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safety

The Empire State Ride is not a race

For the safety of everyone, it’s imperative that every rider obeys instructions from our road crew, pays attention to the information posted on our road signs and rides only on the official route. It’s extremely important to follow proper road etiquette, too, including:
  • Use proper hand signals when turning.
  • Ride as far to the right of the road as is safely possible, except to pass.
  • Be aware of your surroundings at all times. The adventure takes place on open roads so motor vehicle traffic will be present. Headphones, iPods and radios are prohibited.

important tips

Safety is our #1 priority on the Empire State Ride. We want to make sure that each rider has an enjoyable and safe experience. We ask riders to please review these tips and follow them while on the road.

Communicate with Each Other

  • Your hands and voice are some of your best tools when cycling – use them to communicate with fellow road warriors and cars.
  • Before you make a change in your speed or direction, you need to communicate those changes.
  • The pack lead rider should call out “left turn” or “right turn” coupled with proper hand signals to notify the group. Lead riders should also warn of approaching traffic from the front by stating “car up.”
  • Just as the pack leader looks out for the group, the riders in the back need to do the same. When rounding curves or narrow roads, or when riding double, riders in the back should warn of rear traffic by stating “car back.”

Use Caution and Good Judgement

  • It’s important to announce holes, glass, sand, grates and other hazards while riding since most of the group will not have a good view of the road ahead.
  • Lead riders should indicate these hazards by pointing down to the left or right and clearly state what the obstruction is to keep everyone safe.

Ride Defensively and in Control

For yourself and your fellow riders. Always ride in control of your bike. Remember to:

  • Ride in single file or two across as traffic conditions and laws allow. However, single up when cars are trying to pass you, even if double riding is permitted.
  • Leave a gap for cars between every three or four riders when riding up hills or narrow roads.

Pass Safely

  • When passing a fellow rider, make sure to do it safely. Clearly state “on your left” to warn the cyclist you are passing.
  • The slower traffic should stay to the right so that others can pass on the left.
  • Please note: passing on the right is an unusual maneuver, but if it’s absolutely necessary, make sure to communicate this clearly by stating “on your right.”

Stay Alert at Intersections

  • If an intersection requires a yield or stop, the lead rider must state “slowing” or “stopping” to alert of the change in speed.
  • Be aware of signs, directional guides and road traffic when passing through the intersection.
  • Every cyclist is responsible for confirming the way is clear. Some will even state “clear” if there is no cross traffic.

Do not Stop on the Road

  • If you experience an issue that requires you to stop and regroup, move off the road so you don’t impede traffic.
  • When you’re ready to start riding again, each cyclist needs to yield to traffic.

Speak up

  • You know the expression, “if you see something, say something”? That applies to the Empire State Ride, too.
  • If you notice a fellow rider violating rules, speak up. If a member of our team speaks to you about any indiscretions, your response should be appreciation for the concern expressed.

Be Reliable

  • Riding in a group requires more consistency and predictability than riding alone.
  • Your fellow riders will expect you to continue at a consistent speed and direction, unless you signal a change. 

stay safe

We truly can’t stress this enough. In order to stay as safe as possible, remember:

left-turn

Make left turns

from the center of the road or left turn lane.

road

Do not cross the yellow centerline

regardless of passing zone.

barrier

Cross railroad tracks at right angles

to avoid getting stuck between the rails and the road.

water-bottle

Stay hydrated

during and after you ride.

suncream

Wear sunscreen

The Empire State Ride is taking place in July so you need to stay protected by applying your favorite sunscreen on any exposed skin. Follow these five tips to find the right SPF:

learn more
athlete

Know your limitations

You know your body best – make sure you listen to it. Take advantage of rest stops and lean on our team’s support when you need it.

Bike Safety Laws and Guidelines

New York State Department of Transportation laws and guidelines for proper bike safety can be found here:

learn more

Video Resources

Make sure you familiarize yourself with basic bike safety and etiquette provided by the League of American Cyclists:

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Copyright 2021.
Roswell Park Alliance Foundation.