Ride Nice and Safe

Be part of a community of informed and safe riders, walkers, and drivers.

Take a class

Want to feel more comfortable riding on city streets? Spend an hour with a Minneapolis Bike/Walk Ambassador (League of American Bicyclists certified instructors). Short-courses and convenient locations offered. Sign up at: www.bikewalktwincities.org/ambassadors.

Know your rights and responsibilities

Obey traffic laws.
The Minnesota Department of Transportation has made bicycle saftey a top priority. For a refresher on your rights and responsibilities see:www.sharetheroadmn.org

Be visible.
Check your headlight and tail light to ensure they are working. In low light, wear bright or reflective clothing.

Be predictable.
Drivers and walkers need to be able to anticipate your movements.

Signal turns and lane changes.
Keep control of your bike and use arm signals.

Ride in a straight predictable manner.
Don't ride between traffic lanes or weave in and out of parked cars.

• Use bike lanes where provided.
• Watch for car doors that may be opened.
• Bike 3 to 4 feet from parked cars even in bike lanes

Ride in the right-most lane that serves your destination on streets without bike lanes:

• Don't ride in the gutter
• Use left turn lane if turning left
• Use through lane if continuing straight
• Be cautious of turning vehicles and when turning
• Pass other vehicles (including bikes) as you would if driving a car, signal and proceed with care

Don't ride on the sidewalk.
It is dangerous and restricted in business districts. Never ride against traffic. Unless in a contra flow bike lane.

Be prepared.
Nice Ride recommends that everyone wear a helmet. Keep a helmet at work and in your locker. Glasses tinted or clear protect your eyes and can help to make your trip safe and enjoyable.

Communicate for confident cycling

Confident cyclists use non-verbal communication:

• hand signals tell drivers where you are going
• make eye contact with drivers before crossing an intersection in front of a car
• at a stop sign, put a foot down to signal that you are making a full stop

See an illustration of hand signals »

On trails, use your bell or say "on your left" to let riders and walkers know you are passing

See how its done

View a video featuring League of American Cyclist certified instructors demonstrating techniques for urban riding.
Watch now »

Add your voice

Transit For Livable Communities and Bicycle Alliance of Minnesota are important advocates for safe bikeways in the Twin Cities. Nice Ride Minnesota supports their efforts and encourages you to support them too. For updates on bike lane projects in Minneapolis, subscribe to Minneapolis bicycling email updates.

Don't compromise safety for convenience.