Obstacles and road surfaces

Railway and streetcar tracks

Railway and streetcar tracks are very dangerous.  Crossing at the wrong angle could cause you to fall or damage your bicycle wheels.  Remember, tracks are slippery when wet.

steps when crossing tracks: 1) shoulder check, 2) signal, 3) shoulder check, 4) move left, 5) shoulder check, signal, shoulder check, 6) cross at right angle.

Always cross the tracks at right angles.  If the tracks are at an angle to the road, you may need a full lane.  Use hand signals to slow traffic behind you and give you room to cross the tracks safely.  Go slowly and stand on the pedals when crossing over particularly bumpy tracks.

If it is too difficult to cross the tracks safely, dismount and walk your bike across instead.

Where tracks run parallel to the direction of vehicle travel, lane changing and left turns become extremely hazardous.  Wait for breaks in traffic and cross the tracks at right angles. 

Surface hazards

Surface hazards exist on every street, but they are most common close to the curb, where much of your riding is done.  Cyclists must always watch for:

Holes and depressions or raised surfaces that can buckle wheels or throw the rider.  Avoid them with gradual course changes and go through them slowly.

Loose or slippery surfaces that can cause you to lose control. Go over them slowly and corner carefully, keeping the bicycle as upright as possible.

Sharp objects that can cut or puncture tires, sometimes causing blowouts that result in spills or crashes.  Watch for nails, tacks, glass, staples, wire, pins, sharp rocks and sharp pieces of metal.

If you get a flat tire, slow down gently to a stop and walk your bike to avoid ruining the tires and rims.

Riding on sidewalks and shared paths

Sidewalk cycling is very dangerous. Many collisions between cyclists and motor vehicles occur where sidewalks, driveways and parking lot access become unexpected intersections.  Make sure you know and obey your local by-laws concerning sidewalk riding.

When riding on shared bike/walking paths cyclists should:

• Ride at a slow speed.
• Use your bell or horn to signal your presence when approaching pedestrians from behind.
• Be ready to stop and allow pedestrians to cross.
• Stop before every intersection and look all ways for cars.
• Watch for cars entering or exiting from driveways/laneways.
• Walk your bike across a crosswalk (it is illegal to ride across a crosswalk).

Weather hazards

Wet weather makes roads slippery and cyclists need to take extra caution when riding in wet conditions.

Braking

Most bicycle brakes work poorly in the rain.  If you have steel rims, ride slowly and allow extra time for braking.  Brake hard only after your brakes start to grab.  Aluminium and alloy rims provide the best wet weather braking.

Cornering

You have less traction on wet roads, so corner slowly with little leaning.

Puddles

Avoid puddles if possible, or go through them slowly.

Metal, paint and wood

Metal plates, service covers, tracks and painted lines are all very slippery when wet.  Slow down and corner carefully on all such surfaces.

Visibility

Visibility can be poor in wet weather.  Wear bright outer so that drivers can see you better.