Inside... Why this handbook?

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2 Inside... Acknowledgements 2 A Word from the City 3 Why Ride? 4 Are You Making Excuses Not to Cycle? 5 Are You and Your Bike Ready? 6 Up, Down & Around St. John s: Basic Tips 14 Let s Ride... More Safely! 17 Cycling and the Law 29 Ten Tips for Drivers and Cyclists 31 Bikes on Metrobus Transit Bike Racks 34 Where to Learn More: CAN-BIKE Safe Cycling Courses 35 Why this handbook? This Handbook provides a good start to becoming more knowledgeable and more confident about cycling in and around the City of St. John s. The purpose of this Handbook is three-fold: 1) To encourage more residents of St. John s to ride their bicycles and to encourage those who currently ride to ride more often and farther; 2) To encourage St. John s riders of all abilities to ride more safely; 3) To encourage residents to advance their cycling skills by taking CAN-BIKE courses offered through the City of St. John s Department of Recreation. See page 35. Drivers also benefit when they know how cyclists make decisions in traffic. See Ten Tips for Drivers and Cyclists on page 31.

3 A cyclist s handbook Notice This Handbook was written and reviewed by nationally certified cycling safety instructors. It provides information about laws contained in the Highway Traffic Act of Newfoundland and Labrador as well as cycling-related by-laws of the City of St. John s. It also presents advice not included in the law, founded on the principle of best practices. While this Handbook will help protect your legal rights as a cyclist, it is not a proper legal authority and should not be relied upon in a court of law. In the event of a difference between material included in this Handbook and the Highway Traffic Act, the Act shall apply. This best practices Handbook drew on ideas from numerous international cycling sources. Special thanks are due to the Canadian Cycling Association s CAN-BIKE Program. 1 The City of St. John s is not responsible for and accepts no liability or responsibility for the information provided herein. For young cycling enthusiasts, we have a companion cycling safety handbook My Bike and Me: A Young Cyclist s Handbook. To source this handbook and information about CAN-BIKE safety cycling courses please see page 35 and visit our website BIKE ST. JOHN S - WAY TO GO!

4 2 Acknowledgements Writer: Peter Haidelmayer Editor: Bruce Mol Graphic Design: Vivid Communications Illustrations: Vivid Communications Project Management: Delphi-MRC ISBN Thanks to the Cycling Master Plan Implementation Steering Committee of the City of St. John s. Particular thanks to Deputy Mayor Shannie Duff for her championing of this project. Implementation of the Cycling Master Plan was made possible by the taxpayers of St. John s, the Province of Newfoundland and Labrador and ACOA. Copyright 2010 First Edition, City of St. John s. Printed in Canada. GETTING AROUND ST. JOHN S: A CYCLIST S HANDBOOK

5 A word from the city The City of St. John's proudly boasts itself as Canada's newest cycle-friendly city! Way to Go St. John's! This handbook concisely outlines all the tools you need for safe and enjoyable cycling in and around St. John's. Read it carefully and keep it close by as a reference for yourself and your family. Within these pages you will find useful and important safety tips about the rules of the road, cycle-friendly routes and the importance of mutual respect among cyclists, drivers and pedestrians alike. This handbook will arm you with the information you need to keep you safe whether you are already an experienced daily commuter or a novice cyclist. Why not try spending a sunny afternoon meandering through our world class trail systems or colourful downtown streets. You will be hooked. Just choose a path and enjoy the ride! As Chairperson of the Cycling Master Plan Committee, I am greatly honoured to present this Handbook: Getting Around St. John s: A Cyclist s Handbook. Our Committee has worked diligently to make the City s Cycling Master Plan a reality. We have learned quite a lot from our extensive public consultation sessions and we were greatly encouraged to learn that the vast majority of residents are not only ready but quite enthusiastic about embracing a bicycle-friendly city. I am very encouraged to see more cyclists than ever before travelling the City's streets and never has there been a more important time to develop a cycling handbook. This is an important document not only for cyclists but motorists too, as we all have to share the road with each other. Happy and Safe Cycling to you All! 3 Mayor Dennis O Keefe Deputy Mayor Shannie Duff Chair - Cycling Master Plan Committee BIKE ST. JOHN S - WAY TO GO!

6 4 Why ride? There are many great reasons to ride: It s a fun and enjoyable activity whether you are commuting or going on a recreational ride. It s a convenient and easy way to get you around - a door to door solution. Saves you time too! It gives you freedom and independence to go where and when you please. It saves you money as you don t have to get gas, insurance, licenses, calculate lost depreciation, or find parking. It s good for your body and soul. Get somewhere and get exercise too! It creates healthier communities: healthier bodies and better air. It s planet friendly. Reduce your carbon footprint. One less car does make a difference. It makes our beautiful city even more attractive to visitors whether they see local sites by bike or as part of their trans-canada journey. Cycling tourism creates jobs. Nothing compares to the simple pleasure of a bike ride. John F. Kennedy Did you know... that for every 10 kms travelled, in a typical medium size car, almost 2 kg of carbon dioxide emissions are created? There are many greenhouse gas calculators on the internet which allow you to determine the impact of your transportation and lifestyle choices. Can you think of a more efficient form of ground-based human transportation? GETTING AROUND ST. JOHN S: A CYCLIST S HANDBOOK

7 Are you making excuses not to cycle? Excuse 1: I m afraid of traffic. It s dangerous! Similar to driving, you learn to ride more safely with proper training. Read on! This Handbook is a great start. For course information see page 35. Excuse 2: It s too wet or cold to ride! Yes our weather is not always the kindest! But bad weather doesn t have to stop you from riding. Learn how to be ready for anything. See page 16. Excuse 3: The hills are waaaaay too steep Yes, we do have steep hills but by learning proper gearing and braking you can get to the top easier and to the bottom safer. See Up, Down and Around St. John s on page 15. Excuse 4: I ll get all sweaty and my hair will get messy It s not a race; you set the pace! You can choose to arrive sweat free if needed. Your hair can be quickly arranged and you ll have the benefit of a healthy glow after your ride. Excuse 5: I can t carry all the things I need Baskets and panniers/saddle bags on your rack should get your things to and fro. Keep clothing at work. Consider home delivery or a car pick up for shopping trips. 5 BIKE ST. JOHN S - WAY TO GO!

8 Are YOU and your bike ready? Wear it for every ride! Make sure others see you at night, in fog and all other times! Wear full foot coverage and if you have laces, tuck them in! (Change into your sandals or flip flops after your ride.) Keep your eyes safe from dirt, bugs, and the elements. Keep your hands safe, warm and dry. 6 What you need to know about clothing: Wear clothing that will keep you warm and dry. Dress in layers to prevent chill and overheating. Consider jackets with zippered armpits. When it rains, wear a rain-jacket and pants. A traditional raincoat does not let perspiration out and also can get tangled in your bike. Ankle straps secure your pant cuffs. Bright, reflective and single colour clothing increases your visibility. TIP Remember, if you commute you can change clothes at work. BIKE ST. JOHN S - WAY TO GO!

9 Are you and your BIKE ready? TIP Make sure others can see you from the rear with a red rear light or red rear reflector. It s the law. See page 29. Be prepared to carry stuff on your regular commute and take an unexpected purchase home. Choose a bike that is the right size. Straddle the top tube with both feet flat on the ground to make sure you have at least five centimetres of clearance. Be heard. Ring your bell or toot your horn to let others know you exist! Enhance your shoulder checks (see page 19) to see what is behind and around you with a mirror. Fenders keep the spray off and your back free of skunk stripe. Visibility is a must. A white light attached to the front of your bike allows others to see you and can light your way. It's the law. See page 29. Stay hydrated. We lose fluids in all seasons. What you need to know about basic bike fit: Your bike seat adjusts three ways: height, tilt, and slide. Height: Adjust seat height so with pedal in down position and the ball of your foot over the pedal spindle, there is a slight bend in your knee. Another way to check is with your heel over the pedal spindle, your leg should be straight. New riders start with a lowered seat to allow both feet to touch the ground at the same time. Tilt: Slide: Adjust seat angle to near horizontal for comfort and even weight balancing. Adjust handlebar height so your hands rest lightly on handlebars. Slide the seat forward and back (on the rails under the seat) so with the pedal in the forward position and the ball of your foot over the pedal spindle, your knee is directly above the pedal spindle. 7 GETTING AROUND ST. JOHN S: A CYCLIST S HANDBOOK

10 Why wear your helmet? Fact: Brain injury resulting from a fall can be either very serious or kill you. Fact: Helmets spread the force of blunt impacts. Fact: Most crashes and collisions are falls that don t involve other vehicles. Fact: Cycling is a reasonably safe activity, yet the unexpected does happen. 8 For reflection: Think not only of yourself but also of your loved ones. What would their lives be like without you? Falls happen to the most experienced cyclists. Wear your helmet to protect your skull: helmets greatly reduce the risk of permanent brain injury and death. In St. John s, riding without a helmet is an offence subject to fines.

11 How to wear your helmet The helmet should be level front to back and side to side. The helmet should sit about 2 finger widths above your eyebrow to the helmet rim. The side straps should join immediately below the earlobe. Your chin strap should be snug with room for no more than one finger. 9 How to choose your helmet: Choose your bicycle helmet not by style alone but how it fits you and that it complies with a recognized safety standard such as Canadian Standards Association (CSA), Snell, ANSI, ASTM, CPSC, BSI, and SAA. Get it fitted properly when buying. It should be slightly larger than your head and fit comfortably. Make adjustments with provided sizing pads. Go for a light-coloured and single-coloured helmet. Make sure you choose one you will wear! TIPS Always buy new! Replace your helmet after any collision (even if no damage is visible). BIKE ST. JOHN S - WAY TO GO!

12 Every time I see an adult on a bicycle, I no longer despair for the future of the human race. H. G. Wells 10 GETTING AROUND ST. JOHN S: A CYCLIST S HANDBOOK

13 Equipment checks/ maintenance A little prevention goes a long way... Before every ride take 60 seconds: Got all my personal gear? See page 6. Got all my bike equipment? See page 7. Brake: Stand on the non-chain side of your bike with both hands on handlebars. Squeeze rear brake lever and move bike forward - rear wheel should skid. Squeeze front brake and move bike forward - front wheel should not move and rear wheel should rise off ground. Tires: Squeeze side wall between thumb and index finger, inflate if soft, read tire sidewall for recommended pressure. Check both. Quick Releases: The levers on your wheels can come loose! Ensure they are tight. Sound: Shake, rattle and roll your bike as you listen for unusual sounds. Chain: Lubricate as needed to reduce wear on gears. 11 BIKE ST. JOHN S - WAY TO GO!

14 Equipment checks/maintenance cont d Bikes need regular maintenance. Every few rides or at least weekly: Brake pads: Make sure they are not too worn and square with rims. Check both brakes. Brake levers: Ensure a finger or two can fit between each lever and handlebar. Handlebars loose?: Hold front wheel between your knees and try to turn your handlebars. If your bars move, tighten. Headset loose?: Stand on non-chain side of bike, apply rear brake and with left hand on frame at handlebar stem, rock bike forward and back. If you feel play in the headset with left hand, tighten. Cranks and pedals: Push each crank towards and away from bike to check for no play in bottom bracket. Check pedals spin freely and are not lose. Wheels true?: Raise wheel and spin to check wheel is straight. Check other wheel and look out for broken spokes. Wheel play?: Move wheel sideways to check there is no play. Tire wear: Check your treads and sidewalls to make sure they are not overly worn. Cables: Visual check for wear and fraying. Derailleur lubrication: Check every few weeks depending on usage. 12 Start of season/annual maintenance: A practical idea is to have a bike shop check over, adjust, tighten, and lubricate your bike before the start of the new season. For year-round riders, spring and fall tune-ups are a smart choice. To fully maintain your own bike take a course, read a book or shadow a knowledgeable cycling buddy. GETTING AROUND ST. JOHN S: A CYCLIST S HANDBOOK

15 Locks: Prevent you from losing your bike, wheels & seat. Buy the best locks you can afford. Double up with a U-lock and a chain/cable lock to make your bike harder to steal. Thieves need to carry two tools. Choose a U-lock with as little interior room as you can spare. Locking up: Consider replacing wheel and seat quick releases with standard bolts. Remove quick release seat and accessories (lights, reflectors, tools, etc.) that are easy to steal. Lock the bike frame, through either of the bike frame triangles to a securely bolted or cemented to ground bike rack/object. Include the rear wheel and the front wheel if possible. Avoid locking to objects that can be easily cut such as trees, wooden porch rails and chain link fences. Lock up in well-lit busy areas with other bikes nearby. Shorter irregular durations are best. Identification/recovery tip Take a photo of your bike. Look for your bike's serial number (underneath bottom bracket) and write it down. Remember: Many bikes that are stolen are unlocked, especially at home - if you love it, don't lose it: lock it! 13 BIKE ST. JOHN S - WAY TO GO!

16 Up, down & around St. John s: 14 GETTING AROUND ST. JOHN S: A CYCLIST S HANDBOOK

17 basic tips BRAKING Ride in control. Start braking before going too fast. Maintain a safe stopping distance. Apply front and rear brakes equally. Avoid over use of front brake which could mean going over your handlebars. Brake before corners, not during. Avoid skidding hard to control. Tip for the more experienced on faster descents: shift your weight back not up, keep feet on parallel pedals, and keep legs and arms relaxed to absorb some of the bumps. Speed requires an excellent focus on traffic and ability to negotiate other road hazards. GEARING RPM - Change gears to maintain a pedalling rate - called cadence - of revolutions per minute. High cadence increases muscle efficiency and lung capacity PLUS it saves your knees and it s less stressful on your bike. Shift gears before you feel resistance when you are climbing. What gear does what? Remember, the closer the chain is to the frame, the easier it is to go up hills and ride into the wind. 15 BIKE ST. JOHN S - WAY TO GO!

18 What do you do when the weather turns bad? Essentials for all bad weather conditions: See and be Seen. Stay visible with lights, reflectors, reflective clothing and vests. Road surfaces are slippery especially painted markings, grates, metal plates, and leaves. Lean your body, not your bike. Keep upright in turns. Your brakes are less effective. Slow down and allow extra time for your trip. Wipe down your chain after your ride and lubricate before your next ride. When locking up, position your lock so water or snow doesn t accumulate in the key hole. WET COLD FOG Wet Weather Cold Weather Fog Wear waterproof clothing to stay warm Ride on pavement - avoid snow, ice and Be careful: poor visibility affects you and and dry. Consider an under layer that wicks black ice. motorists it s risky. moisture away from the skin. For more tips Use your best judgement to decide if it s If you must ride in fog, listen attentively for 16 on clothing see page 6. a riding day. A snowfall may mean taking traffic you cannot see. Avoid puddles. They can hide hazards such Metrobus home. as potholes and you can dent your rim. Roads may narrow with snow piled up Brake often with light pressure to keep on the sides see page 21. rims clear of water. You stop sooner Wear layers and cover all skin to keep with drier brake surfaces. warm see page 6. Fenders reduce spray. Warm up your joints and muscles before Cover your bike seat with a plastic bag hopping on your bike; start slowly. when parked. GETTING AROUND ST. JOHN S: A CYCLIST S HANDBOOK

19 Let s Ride... More Safely! 17 BIKE ST. JOHN S - WAY TO GO!

20 Start with a few basics Ride on the road. The Newfoundland and Labrador Highway Traffic Act (HTA) says that, with a few exceptions, cyclists have the same rights and duties as a driver. HTA 129(1) Ride in the same direction as other traffic. You are traffic. Do not ride on the sidewalk. HTA 129(2)(a) Fine $25-$180 Sidewalks are for pedestrians. Ride where other road users can see you: Be visible. You need to be detected by other road users first so that they can react to you. Stay out of the blind spots of other road users. If you can t see a driver s eyes then they are not able to see you. Ride in a straight line. Be predictable to other road users. 18 Road Hazards Adjust your speed to road conditions. Rough roads, pavement cracks, potholes and gravel can challenge steering and braking. Look ahead. Be aware of your traffic environment if you want to change your road position. Avoid puddles they are often potholes filled with water. Report potholes and other road conditions for repair to the Department of Public Works and Parks - Streets Division at GETTING AROUND ST. JOHN S: A CYCLIST S HANDBOOK

21 Signals and Shoulder Checks Left Turn Right Turn Stop and/or Slow Down Note: Increasingly an alternative right turn hand signal is being used by extending the right arm horizontally. Communicate your intentions to other road users. Let others know what you want to do. 19 Shoulder check to make sure the way is clear before you both signal and move across the road. Before you want to change lanes, shoulder check, signal and shoulder check again. Try to establish eye contact with other road users. BIKE ST. JOHN S - WAY TO GO!

22 Getting Around Town Riding in City traffic NO NO SC Sig SC YES PLAN LOOK AHEAD The Left Cross happens when an oncoming vehicle makes a left turn in front of or into you. YES NO LEFT CROSS BEWARE AVOID DOOR PRIZE 20 Avoid the Door Prize Look out for exiting vehicle occupants, and for pedestrians between parked vehicles. A space cushion allows you to safely pass opening vehicle doors, and to be visible to other traffic. Stay clear of the door zone. Ride in a straight line a car door width out from parked cars. Adjust your speed depending on parking and pedestrian activity. Drivers: Avoid opening your car door in front of a passing cyclist. This can force a collision with your door or force the cyclist into traffic to avoid your door. Serious injury or death can result for the cyclist. See Ten Tips for Drivers and Cyclists on page 31. Fines apply. Right Turns: Right turning vehicle in front of you? Either Wait behind, or After a shoulder check, signal and shoulder check, pass on left if traffic is clear. Do not try to cut in to the right of a right turning vehicle. Hint: Watch the wheels. You can tell when a motorist wants to turn right because the car s front wheels must be turned before the car turns. GETTING AROUND ST. JOHN S: A CYCLIST S HANDBOOK

23 Not to scale WAIT HERE RIGHT HOOK BEWARE YES NO NO The Right Hook happens when a driver making a right turn cuts off a cyclist. YES SC Sig SC NO Yes 21 That s all great but WHERE SHOULD I RIDE? Legally speaking, a cyclist shall ride as near as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of a roadway. HTA 129 (2)(b) Generally speaking, in urban moderate speed areas: A cyclist should ride about one metre out from the curb or parked cars unless you are turning left or riding faster than other vehicles. Keep about one metre on your left between you and other vehicles. If the travel lane is too narrow to share, take the centre of the lane. Where driver visibility is restricted and on higher speed roads, there are two lane positions from which to choose fundamentally different from the above. See Riding beyond city traffic speeds lane position on page 25. To learn where to ride in your lane, lane choice and all about riding safely, enrol in a CAN-BIKE course. See Where to Learn More: CAN-BIKE Safe Cycling Courses page 35. SC Sig No Warning Shoulder Check Signal (stop/left) Impact BIKE ST. JOHN S - WAY TO GO!

24 Cycling Infrastructure for the Bike St. John's Network The City of St. John's cycling network infrastructure includes: Signed On-Street Routes Bike Lanes Sharrows Shared Pathways Signed On-Street Routes This sign indicates the bike route is more typically a low volume low-speed street. No physical changes are made to the roadway. Bike Lanes Bike lanes are designated road space for the exclusive use of cyclists. They are about 1.5 to 2 metre wide stripped lane with a diamond and large bike symbol pavement marking. Ride in the same direction as other traffic. Bike lanes either run along the curb, or along the left side of parked cars. Some bike lanes have a buffer strip on the left side between cyclists and other traffic; other bike lanes have a buffer strip on the right side between cyclists and parked cars. Where there are parked vehicles on the right, keep to the left in the bike lane to avoid car doors and emerging pedestrians. Cyclists are not required to ride in bike lanes. Like other vehicle operators, cyclists can use adjacent lanes to pass slower moving vehicles, prepare for left turns, avoid obstructions, and so forth. Remember that drivers will cross bike lanes to park, and to enter and exit driveways. Where possible pass on the left. Ring your bell before passing other cyclists, shoulder check, signal and then shoulder check again. 22 Bike Lane Bike Lane with Left buffer Bike Lane with Right buffer GETTING AROUND ST. JOHN S: A CYCLIST S HANDBOOK

25 When approaching the end of bike lane: If going straight, stay out of dedicated right turn lanes. Be cautious when passing vehicles in the travel lane to your left. Watch for right turning motorists and stay out of their blind spot. Avoid passing large vehicles on their right; drivers cannot see you. Watch out for car doors opening. Watch for pedestrians. If there is a car parked in the bike lane, treat the situation as a lane change. Shoulder check, signal, shoulder check and change lanes when safe to do so. To return to the bike lane, use the same technique except shoulder checks are over your right shoulder. Sharrows The bicycle symbol with a double chevron indicates to cyclists and motorists that they are on a shared facility. The placement of the Sharrows symbol is a guide to cyclists for safe cyclist road position. The Sharrows symbol is a visual clue for motorists to leave sufficient space when passing cyclists. Sharrows are spaced about 75m apart on Sharrow routes and are more closely spaced across intersections. In a few narrow streets you will find Sharrows in the centre of the lane. Whenever you are cycling on an urban, moderate speed or slower, street which is too narrow to share with other road users, whether it is marked with the Sharrows symbol or not, ride in a lane position that discourages motorists from passing within the lane. Taking the Lane refers to the lane position that keeps cyclists out of harm s way on their left and right sides. This lane position prevents motorists from sharing the lane by squeezing you on the left. Cyclists travel in the centre of the lane away from parked cars doors and road edge hazards on the right. Do not rely on a motorist s judgement for your safety: use your own. The advantage of taking the lane is that you are more visible and less likely to be squeezed by a passing motorist. The message to motorists is to slow down and drive behind you as a slower moving vehicle. To safely take the lane, shoulder check to ensure that the way is clear, signal and shoulder check again over your left shoulder. 23 To learn more see Ten Tips for Drivers and Cyclists on page 31. BIKE ST. JOHN S - WAY TO GO!

26 Shared Pathways Shared pathways are shared by pedestrians and cyclists. Remember that pedestrians have the right of way. Take extra caution around children, and also pets. Be courteous as you pass. Look out for approaching cyclists. Ride on the right. This also allows others to pass. Ring your bell before passing on the left. Look out for other road users particularly where there is no physical separation from motorized traffic such as at intersections and driveways. Stay Clear of Trucks and Buses Because large vehicles also have large blind spots and the drivers cannot hear your bell, avoid the following no go zones. Results could be serious or fatal. 24 Remember that bikes can be quiet. You may not hear other bikes like you can motor vehicles. Bikes are allowed on all streets in St. John s except where prohibited such as Pitts Memorial Dr, the Trans-Canada Highway and Team Gushue Highway. Trucks occupy a full lane. Stay ahead or well behind. Never squeeze in between a truck and the curb. Do not stop beside a truck. If a truck pulls up beside you in the same lane, pull off the road. If you can t see the truck driver s eyes in the truck s mirrors, the driver isn t able to see you. Trucks slip back when stopped on a hill or grade. Stay well clear. Never pass a right turning truck on the right side. Trucks make wide turns. Keep clear. You make the decisions about what is safe. Don t leave this to someone else. GETTING AROUND ST. JOHN S: A CYCLIST S HANDBOOK

27 Riding Outside the City Centre 25 Riding beyond city traffic speeds Lane positions: Unlike riding in town, when motorist speeds are much higher than a cyclist s speeds, drivers may not see the cyclist until just before they pass. Ride about cm from the right hand edge of the road to allow passing room. This lane position also applies to some faster moving sections of in-town arterials. Sightlines in road curves and beyond hill crests make it difficult to see cyclists. Ride as far to the right as possible. In town where visibility is similarly restricted, this lane position also applies. Remember: Ride in the same direction as other traffic. BIKE ST. JOHN S - WAY TO GO!

28 Gravel & sand surfaces Stopping and steering is more difficult when riding on gravel trails or on paved roads with gravel shoulders. Ride slower or walk if the surface is rough or unstable. Brake slowly and cautiously to avoid skidding and losing control. Pedal smoothly uphill to avoid loss of traction. Coast slowly, keep a straight line, and avoid ruts. Look ahead for changes in the road surface such as gravel or sand on the pavement. Slow down before entering pavement/gravel transition areas. Some say it s like riding on ball bearings. Don t brake, lean or steer off your track unless necessary. Consider alternative routes. Watch for gravel spray. Remember to sport your protective eye wear. 26 Road snakes Road snakes are pavement cracks filled with tar. Road snakes often run parallel to your route. If your wheel slips into a crack, even momentarily, your bike will be thrown off course. Avoid if possible, move your weight back and cross as close to perpendicular as possible. Tip: Stay clear of ruts and rain gutters. GETTING AROUND ST. JOHN S: A CYCLIST S HANDBOOK

29 Riding on City Trails City trails are a great way to get around and explore, though cycling is not permitted on all trails. Check with the Grand Concourse Authority to find out which of their trails permit bicycle use. Look out for oncoming cyclists. In general keep to the right. Slow down, ride on the right, and be on the lookout as you approach curves and rises. Look out for and be respectful of pedestrians, particularly on multi-use trails. Promote good will. Look ahead for changing trail surfaces. Prepare for transitions between gravel and paved surfaces. See page Slow down. Ringing your bell lets other know you are there, but it does not give you the right of way. Ring your bell in advance, also when you intend to pass other cyclists. Take extra caution around children, and also pets. Be wary of other possible hazards such as wild animals, horses, ATVs, and fallen branches. Remember, horses and ATVs, as well as pedestrians and cyclists, are permitted on the T Railway. Stop, look, and yield right of way before crossing or entering trail and road intersections. Be considerate of the environment. Stay on the trails. Tire tracks take a long time to recover. Leave no trace. Respect trail closures. BIKE ST. JOHN S - WAY TO GO!

30 Trail signs are for your benefit. Look out for them: 28 Tip: Be prepared to fix flats and make minor repairs. Bring a pump and repair kit. Tell someone where you are going, and bring a cell phone and first aid kit when riding rarely used trails. Tip: Stay hydrated and energized. Remember to bring your water bottle and snacks. Tip: Keep a steady cadence. Change gears for uphills, downhills, headwinds and tailwinds. For more info see page 15. Emergency Tip: Know your 911/Emergency numbers. GETTING AROUND ST. JOHN S: A CYCLIST S HANDBOOK

31 Cycling and the Law Laws that govern cycling in St. John's are effectively contained in the Newfoundland and Labrador Highway Traffic Act (HTA), provincial Regulations and the City of St. John's By-Laws. Drivers and cyclists generally have similar rights and duties under the NL HTA. Thus HTA laws relating to traffic officers, signs, signals, yielding, etc generally apply to both drivers and cyclists. The HTA states that a person riding a bicycle upon a highway has the same rights and duties as a driver. Section 129(1) Some laws that stand out include: The St. John's Bicycle Helmet By-Law (No 1332) states that no person shall ride a bicycle unless that person is wearing a bicycle helmet. (2)(a) No parent or guardian shall knowingly permit a child under twelve to ride without a bicycle helmet. (3) A cyclist shall not ride on a sidewalk. HTA 129(2)(a) When riding between one half hour before sunset and one-half hour after sunrise you are required to have a front white light, and a rear red light or rear red reflector on your bike. Fines: HTA 208. Consolidated NL Regulation 1007/96 Licensing and Equipment Regulations under the HTA (O.C ) Section 22 Your bicycle is required to have at least one brake that stops the bicycle. Fines: HTA 208. Consolidated NL Regulation 1007/96 Licensing and Equipment Regulations under the HTA (O.C ) Section 25(11) Cyclists have the responsibility to be identifiable. It is a finable offence for failing to remain at the scene of an accident or to identify oneself and give your address to a police officer. You may be subject to arrest. HTA 169(6)(a)(b)(c). 29 City of St. John s By-Law No 1332 (Bicycle Helmets): Section Offence $ Fine Range 2 (a) Failure to ride a bicycle without a helmet Parent or guardian permitting child under 12 to ride without a helmet BIKE ST. JOHN S - WAY TO GO!

32 30 Some key cyclist-related sections of the HTA are: Section Offence $ Fine Range 106(24) Failing to stop at stop sign (38) Failure to obey no entry sign (40) Failure to obey signs reading "No Left Turn", "No Right Turn", "No Turns" or "No Right Turn On Yellow Or Amber Or Red Light" (42) Proceeding wrong way on one-way highway Failing to signal change of direction, etc Failing to yield right-of-way to emergency vehicle (1) Failing to yield right- of-way to pedestrian in crosswalk (a) Failing to exercise due care to avoid colliding with pedestrian (2)(a) Riding bicycle on sidewalk (2)(b) Failing to ride close to the edge of the highway (Specific wording "shall ride as near as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of a roadway".) (2)(c) Riding bicycle abreast of another bicycle rider (2)(d) Riding bicycle without at least one hand on handle-bars (2)(e) Riding bicycle and not astride regular seat (2)(f) Carrying more persons on bicycle than designed for (2)(g) Carrying object which may interfere with operation or control of bicycle (2)(h) Driving bicycle on highway where signs prohibit use of bicycles Person attaching on to vehicle on highway Failing to obey yield sign at intersection Failing to obey directions of a traffic officer 500-1, (a) Opening door of vehicle on highway (b) Leaving door of vehicle open (6)(a) Bicycle operator failing to remain at accident scene (6)(b) Bicycle operator failing to render assistance (6)(c) Bicycle operator failing to give name and address (7) Bicycle operator failing to make written report GETTING AROUND ST. JOHN S: A CYCLIST S HANDBOOK

33 Ten Tips for Drivers and Cyclists Share 1. Cyclists Need Space For more info see Riding in City traffic Where should I ride? on page 21. Drivers: When passing a cyclist at city traffic speeds, keep at least one metre between you and the cyclist. At higher speeds and when road conditions are slippery, increase distance between you and the cyclist. Give extra space and be prepared to stop around children on bikes. Remember cyclists are more vulnerable than drivers - they are not surrounded by a heavy protective cage. Maintain a safe distance between your vehicle and the bike in front of you. Cyclists: Ride in a straight line. Be predictable to other road users. Proper lane position can also create a space cushion and an escape route. BIKE ST. JOHN S - WAY TO GO! Beware 2. Parked Car Doors For more info see Door Prize on page 20. Drivers: Check carefully for cyclists approaching from rear. Before you open your door, check your mirrors, look behind you, open the door a crack to check before opening door to exit, and then promptly close door. Don t forget to check your blind spots. Cyclists may be riding faster than you think. HTA 165(a) Opening door of vehicle on highway. Fine: $45-$180. HTA 165(b) Leaving door of vehicle open. Fine: $100-$400 Cyclists: Avoid the door prize you don t want to win. Make sure that your handlebars will not hit any opening vehicle door. Check for vehicle occupants by looking in side view mirrors and for back of heads. Remember that passengers exit vehicles from the right side too. 31

34 3. Bike Lanes To learn more see page 22. Drivers: Bike lanes are for the exclusive use of cyclists. They are stripped lanes marked with a diamond and large bike symbol on the pavement. Do not drive, park or stand in a bike lane. Do not block cyclists forcing them into moving traffic. Yield to cyclists in bike lanes before crossing bike lanes to access designated parking to the right of bike lanes, or driveways. Cyclists: Ride in the same direction as other traffic. Where there are vehicles parked on the right, you are encouraged to ride on the left side of the lane to avoid parked car doors and emerging pedestrians. You are not required to ride in a bike lane. 4. Sharrows To learn more see page 23. Drivers: The Sharrows symbol indicates roadways that require your special attention and patience. When passing a cyclist, make sure to leave at least one metre of space between you and the cyclist; more at higher speeds. 5. Cyclists Have Unexpected Obstacles Drivers: Be mindful. Cyclists have many road obstacles with which to deal. Examples include potholes, grates, gravel, and cracks. Be prepared to leave extra space. Cyclists: Look ahead for obstacles on the road. Check the way is clear and signal before moving sideways on the road, see page 19. To learn about gravel and sand surfaces, see page Cyclists May Be Going Faster Than You Think: The Left Cross For more info see Left Cross and Right Hook on pages 20 and 21. Drivers: Look out for cyclists when making a left turn crossing oncoming traffic. Cyclists are more difficult to see. Cyclists coming towards you may be going faster than you think sometimes cyclists can travel faster than cars. Yield to cyclists and other traffic before making a left turn. 32 On narrow roads, please slow down, provide a safety space cushion between you and the cyclist, and drive behind the cyclist as you would a slower moving vehicle. Pass only when it is legal and safe for you and the cyclist. Change lanes to pass. Do not attempt to share a narrow lane with a cyclist. Cyclists: Try to establish eye contact with oncoming left turning drivers. Be seen. Do not ride on the sidewalk. Learn more advanced collision avoidance handling skills which are taught in an advanced CAN-BIKE course. See Where to Learn More: CAN-BIKE Safe Cycling Courses on page 35. Cyclists: Sharrows provide a guide to cyclist road position i.e. the centre of the Sharrow symbol. Sharrows support predictable straight line riding habits and cyclist safety by riding farther from the curb away from road edge hazards. Like bike lanes, you are not required to travel on them. GETTING AROUND ST. JOHN S: A CYCLIST S HANDBOOK

35 7. Cyclists May Be Going Faster Than You Think: The Right Hook For more info see Left Cross and Right Hook, and Right Turns on pages 20 and 21. Drivers: Cyclists travel at different speeds and often faster than you think! Before you intend to make a right turn, look out for cyclists on your right side. Slow down and wait for the cyclist to pass, unless it s safe to overtake the cyclist and turn right without causing the cyclist to have to brake or worse. Allow for extra room between your vehicle and the cyclist. Do not cut off the cyclist! Cyclists: Do not ride on the sidewalk. Check over your left shoulder as you approach an intersection. Don t pass a right turning vehicle on their right. Learn more advanced collision avoidance handling skills which are taught in an advanced CAN-BIKE course. See Where to Learn More: CAN-BIKE Safe Cycling Courses page Horns Drivers: Be mindful. Horns are loud and can scare a cyclist. Honk your horn when necessary. Cyclists: Ring your bell to let other users of the road know that you exist. Prepare 9. Expect cyclists Drivers: More and more people are cycling in wet, cool weather and at night. Be on the lookout for cyclists at all times. Just because you don t cycle in some conditions doesn t mean others don t cycle in those conditions. Don t be surprised. Cyclists: Be seen. Ride in a safe lane position. See pages 20 and 21. Signal. Wear bright and light coloured clothing. Use your lights and reflectors. See pages 6 and Highway Traffic Act applies to both drivers and cyclists For more info see Cycling and the Law on pages 29 and 30. Drivers and cyclists generally have similar rights and duties under the Newfoundland and Labrador HTA. For example, HTA 129(1) states that Except as provided in this section, a person riding a bicycle upon a highway has the same rights and duties as a driver., and then lists nine specific differences. HTA laws relating to traffic officers, signs, signals, yielding, etc generally apply to both drivers and cyclists. 33 The bottom line for motorists, cyclists and pedestrians: Be cooperative. BIKE ST. JOHN S - WAY TO GO!

36 Bikes on Metrobus Transit Bike Racks Metrobus bike racks will extend your bike commute distance and help you explore new areas of the city. They are also your chauffeur for bad weather, mechanical break down or when you feel too tired. Loading: For ease of use, follow loading instructions labelled on bus/bike racks 1. Hold your bike with one hand while squeezing the release latch handle and lower the rack. 2. Look for the label where your front wheel goes. Lift bike and place wheels in the wheel slots. 3. Steady your bike while raising the support arm as high as it will go over the front tire, but not over your fender or frame. Unloading: 1. Raise the support arm off the tire and move it into the down position. 2. Lift your bike from the rack. 3. Fold up the rack until it locks. 34 Coming in 2012 Before Loading: Wait for the bus on the sidewalk. Remove or secure loose items (e.g. water bottles, locks, panniers/saddle bags, pumps). Alert the bus driver that you want to load your bike. Ensure the driver understands your intention before walking in front of bus. Place your bike on the sidewalk and let the driver know you are clear of the bus. TIP If the rack is empty, place your bike in the wheel slots closest to the bus. Position yourself on the bus so you can watch your bike and advise the driver, or other cyclists, one stop before your destination. If there is another bike on the rack you may have to remove your bike so the first cyclist can get on their way. Exit by front doors. Ensure the driver sees you before stepping off the curb to unload your bike. GETTING AROUND ST. JOHN S: A CYCLIST S HANDBOOK

37 Where to Learn More: CAN-BIKE Safe Cycling Courses CAN-BIKE is Canada s only national safe cycling education program. CAN-BIKE courses empower cyclists to ride more confidently and more safely. The Canadian Cycling Association has continuously developed the CAN-BIKE program over the last 30 years and delivered it in many communities across Canada. Bicycle Newfoundland and Labrador is the provincial CAN-BIKE delivery partner. In association with Bicycle Newfoundland and Labrador, the City of St. John's Department of Recreation is offering CAN-BIKE courses to residents. The CAN-BIKE program offers a proven curriculum delivered to national standards. There are courses to suit a wide range of cycling ages, abilities and purpose. There are courses for adults who have never ridden bikes, for children learning to ride on the road, for adults riding on residential roads and bike paths, for rural cycling, and advanced skill development for riding in all traffic conditions. Individuals who do well in the advanced level course (i.e. CAN-BIKE 2) are eligible for the CAN-BIKE instructor workshop where, based on their performance, they can become a certified CAN-BIKE instructor. To maintain national standards, CAN-BIKE instructors must be highly skilled cyclists, have excellent risk management skills, know how to teach children and adults on the road and in classrooms, and be an advocate for cycling safety in their communities. 35 Are you ready to become a better and more informed cyclist? For further information on CAN-BIKE courses contact: The City of St. John s, Department of Recreation recreation@stjohns.ca or call: or visit BIKE ST. JOHN S - WAY TO GO!

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