We all can learn something new about bicycling. Whether its doing a quick check before we head out on our bikes, basic maintenance, or understanding how to cycle on public roads, there are lots of resources to help.
Kansas Cyclist has a great summary of bicycle laws in Kansas. Or check out the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) Bicycling Statutes. Basically bikes are allowed on roadways and should “ride as near to the right side of the roadway as practicable”, except when passing, turning left, or avoiding unsafe riding conditions. That last part is vague and we generally ride in the through traffic lane when riding on roads, ideally where the passenger side tires roll, rather than ride very close to the curb. Bikes are allowed to ride 2 abreast, and for the most part have the same basic rights and responsibilities as other vehicles.
The City of Wichita provides lots of information about riding in the city. The City of Wichita Bike Lanes PSA has information on bike lane markings that might educate many cyclists. Plus you may see a familiar face or two.
You can’t ride if someone steals your wheels. The Bike Index has some great tips on how to protect your bike, including recording and registering your bike serial number. Cable locks are not secure, U-locks are relatively inexpensive and provide much better security. Never leave your bike unattended – most thefts occur with unsecured bikes. If your bike is stolen be sure to file a police report in case it is recovered, and consider posting to the SedgwickCountyStolenBikes Facebook page to help get the word out.
The League of American Bicyclists provides a whole range of services, including an online course (Traffic Skills 101) and an outstanding series of videos to help us become better cyclists. Watch and learn at your own pace, and feel free to share these with your friends and family. Here are some of our favorites from the series.
LA County / Long Beach has a set of videos (18 min, broken into 3 parts) that give a good view of what it looks like to share the road
The Oklahoma Bicycle Society provides good information about group riding. Click here to read more