Tips from Our Local Bicycle Outfitter
Tips from Our Local Bicycle Outfitter
May is National Bike Safety Month; Bike Safe, Bike Happy!
We’ve finally hit a spot of good warm weather and that means that people are out enjoying it in whatever way they can. For a lot of locals, that means it’s time to break out the bicycles and hit up the trails. Bicycling is good for your health, an inexpensive means of travel, and if you are competitive, it’s an exciting way to get your cardio in.
Bicycling also comes with its own set of risks. Are you well informed and prepared? May is National Bicycle Safety Month and it’s never a bad thing to recap basic rules/regulations. ellicottvilleNOW sat down with Dennis Baldwin, owner of Bikes, Burritos & Brews (Bike & Bean as most of us know it by), to talk about bicycle safety and what his team can offer to promote safe riding.
eNOW: Bike safety is important; what services does Bike & Bean recommend for all cyclists to have done?
DENNIS: A spring tune-up is always recommended. The full tune checks all aspects of the bicycle including tire dry rot, cracked frames and broken cables as well as making all of the necessary adjustments to make sure your bicycle is running smooth and safe.
eNOW: What safety routine do some of your staff members or yourself follow?
DENNIS: Keeping proper tire pressure is essential for handling and efficiency. We check our tire pressure before each ride.
eNOW: What tips/tricks would you recommend for amateur and experienced riders to follow?
DENNIS: Ride within your abilities, especially at the beginning of the season when you don’t have your cycling legs back quite yet. Ride at least a couple times a week to increase your endurance and gain comfort on your bicycle.
eNOW: What products do you have in the shop that promote safe riding?
DENNIS: Always wear a helmet! We know people roll their eyes when they hear that, but honestly, it’s essential for safe riding. Gloves, elbow and knee pads are nice to have too. A basic blinking rear and front light helps motorists and other cyclist see you. If you like to ride on the road, remember to stay TIGHT TO THE RIGHT of the road and ride single file, especially when there is not a shoulder.
evlNOW: Anything else you can think of to add?
DENNIS: When you head out to ride, remember to bring water, a snack and your cell phone. Bicycle jerseys have pockets in the back, making it easy to carry a few essentials. We also recommend carrying a small pump, tube and flat repair kit because you just never know. A seat-bag or hydration pack is a nice way to carry some of these items and they are always good to have on hand.
Thank you, Dennis, for taking the time to share such great safety info with us. Some other good things to note: Never ride distracted. (Always pay attention) Expect the unexpected. (Just because you’re focused on safety doesn’t mean everyone around you is as well.) Know the rules of riding on the road. You can find more info on bicycle safety month by visiting trafficsafetymarketing.gov. And you can always visit Bike and Bean’s Facebook, call 716-699-2453 or just pop on into the shop at 11 Martha Street. Dennis says, “Happy Trails! Make sure to stop by the shop for a burrito, trail advice and road routes… We know the local ride scene very well!”
