Tips To Ride Safely On Bike To Work Day

In celebration of National Bike Month, Hawaii Bicycling League (HBL) has planned a variety of events to encourage people to get around on two wheels. Next on the calendar is Bike to Work Day May 15.

“For Bike to Work Day, HBL, with the help of sponsors and community groups, has organized energizer stations, which is like a pit stop,” explains Travis Counsell, project manager and membership coordinator for HBL. “We will have multiple places on popular commuting routes where there’s coffee and muffins. We even have some local shops coming to give free minor tuneups, such as adjust your brakes or pump your tires. It’s a way to thank people for choosing to ride their bike to work.”

Energizer stations will be set up from 7 to 9 a.m. at Thomas Square and downtown Honolulu, as well as at Neal S. Blaisdell Park in Aiea.

Travis Counsell shows the correct ways to signal when on a bicycle: (from left) stopping; turning right; also turning right; and turning left. This year, the state Legislature passed a bill allowing bicyclists to signal a right turn by using their right hand and arm extended horizontally from the right side of the bicycle. Under current law, all road users using hand signals, including bicyclists, are required to signal a right turn by extending their left arm outward and bent upward at the elbow NATHALIE WALKER PHOTOS

For the past year, Counsell has been riding his bike to work from Kailua to Kaimuki almost daily. It takes him an hour to an hour-and-a-half, and he takes Old Pali Road into town. To go home, he sometimes will bike into downtown and catch the city bus back over the Pali. He notes that his boss also rides a bike to work from Kailua, and some co-workers ride from as far as Ewa and Mililani.

As for safety, his advice for bicyclists includes using lights for the front and back of your bike when riding at night, wearing light or brightly colored clothing, installing a mirror and bell, and always wearing a helmet. Also, make sure to signal when turning or stopping (see photos), so people around you know what you’re doing.

“Bicycling is definitely on the rise,” adds Counsell. “I think it’s because there’s an increase in awareness of sustainability and a desire for a healthier lifestyle. Also, it can be a convenience factor and it’s cost effective.”

For more information, including on other Bike Month events, visit hbl.org.