Safety 
Ride Safety and Etiquette
Safety rules and etiquette guidelines have been developed as part of an overall Chileno Valley Cycling Classic bicycle safety effort. Some new and/or young riders may be new to riding on the road – let us know if you have any questions.
When combined with the legal rules of the road and when adhered to by riders, these rules will make this event safer and more enjoyable for everyone. This section outlines the safety guidelines that will be in effect at the CCVC.
1. The legal RIGHT.
Obey traffic laws. In California, bicyclists enjoy the same rights as motorists. In accepting those rights, bicyclists also assume the responsibilities for riding in a safe and legal manner by:
- Stopping completely at stop signs
- Obeying yield signs.
- Not crossing yellow lines in your lane.
- Riding to the right.
- Signaling for turns.
- Not cutting corners.
- Riding single file.
- Riding in a respectable manner.
2. The RIGHT bike.
Keep your bicycle in good repair. Have it tuned up and ready for the Chileno Valley Cycling Classic, so you are sure it is safe to operate. It is especially important to make sure your brakes work well.
3. The RIGHT gear.
You must wear a helmet any time you are on the bike. Gloves make a tremendous difference in protecting your hands if you have a fall. Wear bright clothing to be noticed. Eyewear will protect your eyes from both the sun and flying objects such as bugs and pebbles. If it’s a sunny day, don’t forget sunscreen!
4. The RIGHT tools.
Make sure you have a spare tube, patch kit, tire levers, and pump in the event you get a flat. Having a cell phone on you is also always a good idea.
5. The RIGHT communications.
Signal turns and stops. The law says you must, but this point can’t be emphasized enough. Most bicycle-bicycle accidents involve two or more bicycles and most are the result of riders not letting others know of their intentions. Sound off when passing. Use phrases such as “on your left,” “on your right,” or “coming through the middle.” When stopping, you should signal with your arm straight down and your open palm towards the rear and sound off, “SLOWING!!!” and then “STOPPING!!!”.
6. The RIGHT riding.
When stopping along the Chileno Valley Cycling Classic routes, let those behind know of your plans. Make sure no bicycles or motor vehicles are immediately behind you when you stop. Stop at the right edge of the roadway and immediately move to the shoulder. Stay clear of the roadway, and park completely off of the roadway to make repairs, rest, visit, etc. Stopping is especially dangerous at the crest of a hill or on a curve, so choose the places you stop wisely.
When turning, turn left from the center of the roadway, turn right from along the curb or shoulder, and stay to the right.
Control your speed and allow extra space between riders when descending hills.
Be a predictable rider. Don’t keep other bicyclists and motorists guessing about what your next move will be. A predictable rider is a safe rider.
Be courteous to passing vehicles and other bicyclists. Instead of riding several abreast, go single file and let those behind you pass.
Give the right-of-way to emergency vehicles. Pull to the right and stop if you hear a siren.
Beware of loose gravel and watch for debris on the pavement. Avoid wide cracks in the pavement. Narrow bicycle tires can easily get caught in wide cracks. Be especially careful on roadways paved with concrete. Center cracks on concrete roads are dangerous.
Please stay on the marked route. The Chileno Valley Cycling Classic route has been selected for your safety. Services are not available to you if you are off the route.
7. The RIGHT frame of mind.
Stay alert and use your brain when you ride. You must be constantly thinking and aware of what’s going on around you. Pace yourself. The Chileno Valley Cycling Classic is not a race. Not all riders travel at the same speed, so don’t try to keep up with someone who rides faster than is safe for you.
Keep your head up and your ears open. Do not wear radio headphones while riding!
8. The RIGHT attitude
Be considerate and supportive. A range of abilities will be present at the Chileno Valley Cycling Classic. The goal of this ride is to have a good time with a great community of people.
9. The RIGHT condition
Get yourself in good physical shape. You should be in good shape and capable of riding those distances before you come on the ride. Be sure to keep up your riding over the summer and don’t avoid hills – you’ll enjoy the ride more if you are prepared!
10. The RIGHT diet
Be sure to eat and hydrate properly before, during, and after the event.