Road Etiquette with Other Cyclists

by Arnie Baker M.D., TNT Cycling National Head Coach

Many riders, especially new riders, simply do not know correct riding etiquette. For example, riders need to know to:

• Ride predictably: straight, without weaving.

• Look behind before changing their line.

• Generally, ride single file.

• Ride no more than two abreast.

• Ride to the right as practicable.

• Give room for others (vehicles or faster riders) to pass.

• Usually pass on the left.

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Etiquette Shouts and Signals

Cyclists everywhere use a common language. Common warning shouts include:

• "Passing on your left." (Common. Most passing should be on the left. Often shortened to "On your left" Other riders and pedestrians often misunderstand this shout. Sometimes better not to say anything, or a greeting such as "Hello" or "Coming by" and pass.)

• "Passing on your right." (Rare. Often shortened to "On your right." Other riders and pedestrians often misunderstand this shout. Slower riders and pedestrians are usually startled or discomforted when faster riders pass on the right.)

• "Heads up." (Common warning of nonspecific danger ahead.)

• "Watch out." (Common warning of nonspecific danger ahead.)

• "Hole." "Bump." "Tracks." (Common warnings of specific danger ahead. Should be pointed out, too, with a finger.)

• "Car door." (Warning of this common hazard, the opening car door of a parked vehicle.)

• "Car back." "Truck back." (There is a car or truck approaching from the rear. Sometimes shouted repeatedly in frustration by someone at the back of a group who is aware that the group is impeding a vehicle that wants to pass.)

• "Car up." (There is a car in the bike lane, a car obstructing the road, or a car approaching the group. Often shouted when a large group is taking up most of the lane-and riders on the extreme left of the group are at risk for a head-on collision, or when the group will make a left turn-and the group needs to slow for the approaching car before executing the turn.)

• "Stopping." "Slowing." Hand-down signal. (Warning to others in the pack to anticipate the speed to decease.)

• "Right turn." "Left turn." (Warns of a change in direction. Additionally, use hand signals.)

• "On your wheel." (When you come up behind a rider who may not know that you are there, lets a rider know that you are drafting, and to assume responsibility to ride with road etiquette. Racers often expect this. Do not assume that every cyclist will be happy to have you draft. If you don’t want another to draft you or if a rider says "No!" or "Get off!" -understand the meaning.)

This material is copyright © 2001, Arnie Baker, MD and reproduced with permission