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Bicycles are required to ride on the right, with traffic,
not against it. This may be contrary to the way many seniors
first learned to ride. Teach them that this is the current
law and that they may be ticketed for riding against traffic. |
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Teach the senior cyclist about the various styles of bikes
and which one will best suit their needs, and also how to
select and purchase a properly fitting helmet. Explain the
different ways of carrying cargo, and what lights and other
accessories, such as a water bottle holder, they may need.
Introduce them to other options, such as gloves and glasses,
and how they may benefit from these accessories. |
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Compare cycling to driving a car. Remind the senior cyclist
that as a bicyclist he or she is a vehicle operator and is
therefore subject to the same laws as drivers of cars. By
adhering to these rules, s/he will help the concept of sharing
the road become more of a reality, and create a more inviting,
less stressful atmosphere on the roads. |
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Teach senior cyclists to maintain a defensive riding attitude,
even when the law and right-of-way are in their favor. Emphasize
that they should anticipate what a driver MIGHT do- but should
not take it for granted that he or she will actually do it.
Senior cyclists should never underestimate the importance
of good motorist/cyclist communication through hand signals
and eye contact. |
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Just as they would when driving a car, senior cyclists should
scan traffic regularly by looking around and behind them as
they ride. Some senior adults discover that it become more
difficult to turn their heads to scan as they grow older.
If so, they should have a rearview or side mirror mounted
to their bike, and learn to use it. |
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Senior cyclists should learn how to safely navigate your way
through intersections and complex traffic situations. They
should also be able to recognize and avoid road hazards. |
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Senior cyclists should explore the "science" of
good route selection, and take advantage of bike lanes, bike
routes, and multi-use paths. City bicycling maps, generally
available at bike shops, are useful in finding such routes. |
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The senior cyclist should learn how to make him or herself
conspicuous to others on the road. |
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Introduce senior cyclists to the health and environmental
benefits of cycling. |
Americans
are living longer and stronger. The number and percentage of people
over the age of 55 continues to increase, particularly as the baby
boomer generation matures. And more elder adults than ever before
are participating in cycling.
Tools and
Skills 
Links
