Metro - Bike There!

Legend
Safety

	Established Bikeway paved and mostly separated from motor vehicles, includes cycle track, bike boulevard, multi-use travel, buffered lanes.
	Bike Friendly Street no bike lane, lower traffic and speeds < 25 mph chosen for convenience and directness
	Designated Bike Lane busy streets with bike lanes and wide shoulders, suitable for experienced bikers.
	Helpful connection no bike lane, medium traffic and speeds > 25 mph chosen for convenience and directness
	Bike with Caution streets with higher traffic, higher speeds, narrow lanes and/or sharp curves
	Unpaved Trails suitable for off-road biking. You may encounter challenging terrain, obstacles and unstable surfaces. Bike with caution, always remain in control and safely share the path with other users.
	Local Paths

Safety tips and bike laws

As a bicyclist, you have the same rights and responsibilities as a motorist. Follow these tips to make your ride safe and enjoyable.

Be predictable

Ride so drivers can see you and predict your movements.

	Obey traffic signs and lights To be respected by motorists, obey the same traffic laws they obey.
	Use bicycle traffic detection devices Look for a small, white bicycle decal in the pavement at an intersection. Place your wheel over it to change the traffic signal.
	Never ride against traffic Motorists aren't looking for bicyclists riding on the wrong side of the road. To be most visible and safe, ride with traffic.
	Use hand signals Hand signals allow you to signal to motorists a change in direction. You are required to signal 100 feet before turning at an intersection.
	Don't weave between parked cars Ride as close as possible to the right. Ride consistently, and always scan parked vehicles for people who may open a door in your path.
	Ride in the middle of the lane At busy intersections and when riding at the same speed as motor vehicle traffic, you can ride in the middle of the lane. Otherwise, you must ride as far to the right as practical unless you are passing, preparing for a left turn, avoiding hazards or riding in a lane too narrow for a bicycle and vehicle to travel side by side.
	Turn correctly There are two ways to turn left: you can signal and turn left from the traffic lane, or you can keep to the right until you reach the far corner of the intersection and then turn your bike and wait until it is clear (or the light changes) before crossing.
	Go slowly on sidewalks You must yield to pedestrians and provide an audible warning as you prepare to pass them. You may not ride on sidewalks in downtown Portland.

Be alert

Ride defensively and expect the unexpected.

	Use caution when passing You may pass slowed or stopped traffic on the right only when it is safe. Be very careful when overtaking cars and stay out of a motorist's blind spot as a driver may not signal when turning.
	Be prepared for a stopped vehicle pulling into your path Until you've made eye contact, assume that a stopped motorist in a driveway or cross street has not seen you approach.
	Know what's behind you Train yourself to look over your shoulder without losing your balance or swerving, or use a rearview mirror.
	Avoid road hazards Be on the lookout for rail tracks, sewer grates, manhole covers, oily pavement, wet leaves, gravel and ice. Cross rail tracks at a right angle. Do not ride through large puddles; they may hide a pothole.
	Look for bike boxes Green bike boxes are located at intersections and marked with a bicycle symbol. They create a safe and more visible space for bicyclists to stop at traffic lights.
	Test ride a cycle track Cycle tracks are physically protected lanes for bicycling. When riding in one, be especially watchful when you approach an intersecting driveway or cross street.

Be equipped

Invest in the necessary gear.

	Cover the basics Your bike should be sized to your height. A hard-shell helmet reduces your risk of head injury in a crash. Bicyclists under 16 are required to wear one.
	Gear up for urban conditions Front and rear bike lights are required if you ride at dusk, dawn or night. Consider a rearview mirror, fenders for rain and a bell, plus a rack, basket or bike bag to carry groceries, books and necessities.

Metro Bike There!