If you live in New York, you should think about getting an electric bike for work. After all, cycling is a great way to commute while saving money and getting a workout. However, before you hit the streets, there are a few things you should know to make your travels convenient and safe.
Get Familiar With the Laws
There are rules about where you can ride, and if you don’t follow them, you’ll get a ticket. For example, you can’t ride on the sidewalks, which are reserved for pedestrians. Additionally, you must ride with the flow of traffic and obey traffic laws such as stopping at red lights. So you don’t risk a fine of $250, make sure you’re familiar with all the city’s regulations.
Choose the Right Electric Bike
There are plenty of electric bikes for adults, but not every model is ideal for urban environments. You should look for a road or hybrid bike that gives you lots of control so you can safely maneuver through unexpected traffic. Additionally, you could benefit from bikes with room for accessories such as bags and baskets so you can stow your belongings.
Don’t Use Two Earbuds
Did you know that in New York City, it’s illegal to ride a bike with two earbuds in? This law was implemented to force cyclists to be aware of their surroundings, and with good reason. Cyclists are fast-moving and may not be seen by pedestrians or vehicles, creating a high risk of accidents.
The good news is, you’re allowed to have one earbud in or play music through a speaker. That way, you can stay in the zone without eliminating one of your most important senses.
Assert Your Right To the Road
As a cycling commuter, you have just as much right to the road as any car. However, not all drivers feel the same, so it’s up to you to assert that right.
When you know the biking and traffic laws, you know where you’re allowed to be as a cyclist and when drivers are expected to yield. While you should avoid putting yourself in a dangerous situation, you should make decisions confidently and communicate your intentions as clearly as possible with the appropriate hand signals.
Keep Clear of Stopped Vehicles
If a vehicle is stopped, there’s a chance someone is about to get out. Unfortunately, not everyone is courteous to others on the road, and some people may open a car door without checking if a cyclist is riding by. Colliding with a car door at high speed can seriously hurt, so you want to avoid doing so at all costs.
To keep clear of unexpected doors, try to put at least 3 feet between you and any stopped vehicle. If you can’t do so, you may have to slow down so you can stop if the door suddenly swings open.
Now that you know the ropes, it’s time to find your women’s or men’s commuter bike. There are many different styles and colors available so you can find a bicycle that suits your needs and expresses your personality. Once you find the perfect model, you can enjoy commuting on the streets of New York City.