San Franc i sco
Bicycle Guide
San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency
585- BIKE • www. bicycle. sfgov. org
“ It’s an exciting trend that more and more people are
choosing to bicycle in San Francisco for both transportation
and recreation. Trips made by bicycle instead of by car
have proven personal health benefits, and help all of San
Francisco by reducing traffic congestion and air pollution.
That’s why the MTA Bicycle Program continues to improve
and expand facilities and training for bicyclists, freeing
street space for transit, and making San Francisco a world-class
bicycling city.”
This guide was made possible by Proposition K Sales Tax funding, administered through the San
Francisco County Transportation Authority. It is produced and distributed in collaboration with the
San Francisco Bicycle Coalition and the San Francisco Bicycle Advisory Committee. Please direct
questions or concerns about the Guide to the MTA Bicycle Program at 415- 585- BIKE, or send email
to bicycle@ sfgov. org.
Illustrations by Kevin Keck
Nathaniel P. Ford Sr.
Executive Director/ CEO
San Francisco Municipal
Transportation Agency
ABC Quick Bicycle Check....................................................................................................... 2
General Bicycle Rules............................................................................................................ 4
Where to Ride in Traffic Lanes: Intersections and Turns....................................................... 7
Riding in Bike Lanes............................................................................................................. 11
Riding on Bike Routes.......................................................................................................... 13
Bicycling at Night................................................................................................................. 15
Riding in Rain and Fog......................................................................................................... 16
Riding Near Streetcars, Trucks and Buses........................................................................... 18
San Francisco Bicycle Route Signs...................................................................................... 20
Bicycles Allowed Use of Full Lane....................................................................................... 21
Bicycle Parking in San Francisco......................................................................................... 22
Bikes on Transit................................................................................................................... 26
Helmets........................................................................................................................ ....... 28
Avoiding Collisions and Injuries........................................................................................... 31
Grates, Plates, Trenches and Potholes................................................................................ 34
What to do if you get in a Collision..................................................................................... 36
The “ CoExist” Public Outreach Campaign........................................................................... 37
Bicycle Safety Education..................................................................................................... 39
Waller Street Bicycle Learning Area................................................................................... 41
Parts of the Bicycle.............................................................................................................. 44
Bicycle Sizing and Fit........................................................................................................... 45
Gearing and Shifting............................................................................................................ 46
Brochures and Publications................................................................................................. 49
Important Telephone Numbers and Internet Links............................................. back cover
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Safe bicycling starts with a safe and well-maintained
bicycle. These quick checks will
take about a minute, and ensure that your
bike is in safe working order:
A = AIR
Tires lose a little air each day on their
own. Make sure your tires are inflated to
the proper pressure before you ride. Check
air pressure every couple of weeks. Often,
you can’t feel a tire which has lost a little
pressure. If you can squeeze the tire, the air
pressure is probably too low.
B = BRAKES
Squeeze the brakes to make sure the pads
are not worn, and will stop the wheel from
moving without applying much pressure.
Have your brakes adjusted or replace the
brake pads as soon as possible if either pad
doesn’t touch the rim.
C = CHAIN
Make sure your chain is not dried out or
rusty, since it could cause sudden problems
when riding. Also make sure it is not so
worn or stretched that it hangs down. To
check for stretching, take a ruler and check
to see that the distance between the centers
of link pins ( see photo below) is exactly 12
inches. If the distance is more, the chain is
stretched and should be replaced. If it is
worn, replace it. If the chain is dry, lubricate
it by using a greaseless chain lubricant. If
you find stiff links in your chain, you may
be able to free them up by carefully and
slightly bending the chain sideways back
and forth until the stiff link loosens up.
“ ABC Quick” Bike Check
Measure for chain stretch from link pin to link pin, as shown above.
ABC Quick Bicycle Check
QUICK = QUICK RELEASES
Check your wheel quick release skewers
to make sure they’re closed and tight.
Improperly fastening quick release skewers
can allow your wheels to shift and rub
against the frame of your bike, or even fall
off! In an urban environment, you may want
to consider using locking skewers to further
deter thieves from stealing your wheels off
of your bike.
WEAR YOUR HELMET
Fit and adjust your helmet correctly so that
it fits snug and the straps and slides are
properly adjusted. See section on HELMETS
for more info. Your helmet is not technically
part of your bike, but think about it like a
seatbelt: it must be put on and fastened
properly before you start your trip.
The quick release lever should be closed in the upright
position, as shown above.
ABC Quick Bicycle Check
GENERAL RULES ON THE STREETS -
A person riding a bicycle on the street or
highway has all the rights and is subject
to all the duties applicable to the driver
of a vehicle, including DUI, obeying traffic
signals, and all rules of the road. The
California Vehicle Code ( beginning with VC
21200), defines the rules and responsibilities
of cyclists. You will find complete bicycle
related vehicle codes at http:// www.
dmv. ca. gov/ pubs/ vctop/ vc/ vctoc. htm.
Scroll down to Division 11, Chapter 1,
Article 4: Operation of Bicycles
Bicyclists are required by
California law to stop at
STOP signs.
ENTER THE STREET IN A PREDICTABLE
WAY - Enter the street in a way that makes
you visible to other users and yields right of
way appropriately. Do not dart out into the
street from a driveway, from the sidewalk,
or from behind a parked car. Drivers are not
expecting to see you in this situation and
may not have time to stop.
RIDE ON THE RIGHT SIDE - Because all
vehicles operate on the right side, when
drivers enter a road, change or cross lanes,
by habit they look that way for possible
conflicts, and often will not see someone
coming from the wrong direction. Surprising
motor vehicle drivers is never a good idea.
Wrong- way riding is one of the leading
causes of crashes, accounting for 15 to
20% of all collisions with cars. RIDING
WITH TRAFFIC makes you more visible and
predictable to other street users.
General Bicycle Rules On The Street
SIMPLY OBEYING THE LAWS AND FOLLOWING THE RULES OF
THE ROAD WILL HELP YOU AVOID MANY COLLISIONS. RIDING
DEFENSIVELY, BY BEING PREPARED FOR UNPREDICTABLE
ACTIONS OF OTHERS, WILL ALSO HELP YOU AVOID COLLISIONS.
Cyclist behind the car, going the wrong way.
General Bicycle Rules On The Street
ADULTS DO NOT RIDE ON THE
SIDEWALK.
Sidewalks are for pedestrians, not for
bicycles. The San Francisco Traffic Code
prohibits adults from riding bicycles on the
sidewalk:
ARTICLE 5: SECTION 96. BICYCLE
RIDING RESTRICTED. It shall be
unlawful to ride a bicycle upon any
sidewalk area, except at a permanent
or temporary driveway or on bikeways
heretofore or hereafter established by
resolution of the board of Supervisors;
provided, however, that juveniles
under the age of 13 and riding a
sidewalk bicycle, exercising due care
and giving the pedestrian the right-of-
way, may ride and operate their
sidewalk bicycles upon the sidewalk,
except such sidewalks as are in front
of schools, stores, or buildings used for
business purposes. ( Amended by Ord.
394- 78, App. 8/ 29/ 78)
If the traffic on a street makes you
uncomfortable riding on that street, choose
an alternate route to your destination. Bikes
should be walked on sidewalks, especially
where there are pedestrians. If you feel
that you must break the law and ride on a
sidewalk, you must use extreme caution,
stay away from doorways, and slow to
walking speed. Children on children’s bikes
( smaller than 21” wheels) may ride on
residential sidewalks in San Francisco, but
must also yield to pedestrians.
COMMUNICATE!
Whether you communicate by using hand
signals, your voice, a horn or bell, your
position on the street, or even polite
hand gestures, making yourself and your
intentions known is always a good idea.
Using hand signals is a great way to indicate
your intentions to motorists, pedestrians
and other cyclists. Hand signals are not
always possible ( in heavy traffic, on rough
pavement, while crossing RR tracks, etc.)
General Bicycle Rules On The Street
so it also pays to show others what you are
doing by using correct positioning on the
street. ( See section on LANE POSITIONING
AND INTERSECTIONS)
Use your voice or bell to let other cyclists
know that you are passing – and always
pass on the left side. Your voice, bell or
horn, are also useful to alert drivers who
are preparing to enter the street from
cross streets, driveways, or parking lots.
Sometimes these drivers are looking for
gaps in motor vehicle traffic and fail to see
objects smaller than motor vehicles. Drivers
preparing for left turns at intersections
sometimes do not see cyclists. Getting
a driver’s attention in these cases is vital
to your safety, but you should also plan to
avoid a collision if the driver does not see
you and pulls out in front of you. Slowing
enough to be able to stop, or avoid the car
with an INSTANT TURN, ( see section on
AVOIDING COLLISIONS) will prepare you to
prevent a collision.
Many urban cyclists “ filter through” traffic
stopped at red lights. This is often done
between the stopped traffic and the curb.
This practice is actually illegal, as it is
considered “ passing on the right.” There
are many issues associated with filtering
through stopped traffic, such as passengers
getting out of cars, pedestrians walking
through the stopped traffic, and very narrow
spaces in which to maneuver. If you choose
to filter through stopped traffic despite the
obvious obstacles, you should do so with
the utmost caution, and at significantly
reduced speed.
General Bicycle Rules On The Street
Where you ride on the street, or within the
traffic lane, is vital to being visible, and
allows others to predict where you are
going and know what you are doing. Correct
positioning on the street and appropriate
paths of travel are great ways to be
predictable, be visible, and communicate
your intentions to other road users.
On streets where the lane is too narrow
for motorists and cyclists to share side- by-side,
and there is no shoulder or bike lane,
ride at least 3 feet from the edge of the
roadway, or at least 4 feet from parked
cars. Stay out of the “ door zone!” ( The
“ door zone” is the area where car doors
open and drivers get out.) This may mean
that you will ride near the center of the lane
in order to be visible and prevent motorists
from passing you when there isn’t enough
room. You may also take the lane when
you’re traveling at the same speed as
traffic. Taking your rightful position in the
lane keeps you out of motorist’s blind spots
and reduces chances that oncoming traffic
will not see you as they prepare to turn left
across your path.
THE RULE OF THIRDS
Use your position on the street to show
others where you are going. By being in
the correct position on the street, you
make yourself more visible to others and
communicate what you are doing and
where you are going. When you approach
an intersection, there are three choices:
a right turn, a straight path of travel, or
a left/ u- turn. You can communicate your
choice by where you ride in the travel lane,
or by which lane you choose on multi- lane
streets.
Where to Ride in the Traffic Lane:
Intersections and Turns
Where to Ride in the Traffic Lanes
RIGHT TURNS
For a right turn, the cyclist should be in the
right third of the lane, and should not leave
space for vehicles to pass on the right.
STRAIGHT THROUGH
A cyclist who is traveling straight should
maintain a straight path of travel from one
block to the next, staying out of the door
zone of parked cars, and not wandering into
the crosswalk ( marked or not) or into empty
parking lanes or spaces. A cyclist that fades
right into the crosswalk while crossing
straight through an intersection sends the
false message that they are turning right,
and vehicles may respond to this message
by turning across the cyclist’s path. When
you leave the lane and ride in the parking
lane, you have given up your right of way,
and when you want to re- enter the traffic
lane, you will legally have to yield to traffic
before riding back into the travel lanes.
Where to Ride in the Traffic Lanes
LEFT TURNS
When making a left turn or U- turn at an
intersection the cyclist should merge across
the lane to a position in the left third of the
lane, to show the intention to turn left. The
rider below is making a “ vehicular left turn”
in the traffic lane.
“ L” LEFT TURN ( LIKE A PEDESTRIAN)
If you do not feel comfortable making a
left turn in traffic, you may choose to go
striaght across,
turn your bike to
the left and cross
straight again.
This turn is called
an “ L” left turn
because the rider’s
movement across
the intersection
is shaped like
a capital L. In
some locations,
like southbound
Polk at Market, you will
be instructed to make
an “ L” left turn as seen
in the sign below on
Bicycle Route 25. Note:
you should still stay out
of the crosswalks as you
cross. This type of turn is
also called a “ Box” left
turn.
LEFT TURNS FROM
MULTI- LANE STREETS
If you are making a left turn from a multi-lane
street you should merge to the right
side of a designated left turn only lane. If
the left lane of a multi- lane street is used
for both left turns and straight movements,
you should take a position in the center of
the lane to avoid having a car pull up next
to you and proceed straight, preventing you
from making your turn.
Where to Ride in the Traffic Lanes
Vehicular Left Turn, In Traffic.
10 Where to Ride in the Traffic Lanes
LEFT TURNS USING MULTIPLE TURN
LANES
When making a left turn on a street with
multiple turn lanes you need to be in the
lane that will put you in the desired position
on the street after you make your turn. The
right- most turn lane will typically be the
lane that delivers a cyclist to the right
lane of the destination street, where the
cyclist can then proceed without a merge
or without crossing paths with vehicles. If
a cyclist chooses the left of two turn lanes,
he or she will end up in a middle lane of the
destination street, after the turn, and will
likely have to merge back to the appropriate
position on the right side of the right lane to
continue straight on their trip.
11
Riding in bike lanes provides a certain
amount of separation from the motor
vehicle traffic, and gives cyclists an added
sense of comfort while riding in urban
areas. There are still rules that make riding
safer in bike lanes.
RIDE IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION
Always ride the same direction as other
traffic. It is extremely dangerous, and illegal,
to ride the wrong way in a bike lane.
STAY OUT OF THE DOOR ZONE
Some bike lanes may be close enough to
parked cars, or cars may park so that their
door reaches into the bike lane. You need to
stay out of reach of opening car doors.
DO NOT PASS ON THE RIGHT
Passing on the right is a dangerous practice
and should always be avoided. Others do
not expect it and it may cause dangerous
conflicts.
ALWAYS SCAN FOR TRAFFIC AT
INTERSECTIONS
Keep an eye out for turning vehicles at
intersections. Drivers sometimes look for
gaps in motor vehicle traffic, and only see
cyclists once it is too late to stop, so you
need to make sure that you see all of the
intersection, all of the time.
Riding in Bike Lanes
This bicyclist is out of the door zone, safely in
the bike lane.
Riding in Bike Lanes
12
This cyclist is riding straight through this Polk
Street intersection.
A shoulder check allows you to see traffic
behind you.
RIDE A STRAIGHT LINE THROUGH
INTERSECTIONS
When riding straight through intersections,
do not fade to your right toward the curb and
crosswalks as you approach intersections.
These moves tell motorists that you are
turning and they may anticipate a turn you
do not make. Ride in a straight line from
one bike lane to the one on the other side
of the intersection.
CHECK BEHIND YOU FOR TRAFFIC
BEFORE LEAVING THE BIKE LANE
Before merging left into traffic to make a
left turn, or even to go straight through an
intersection when a bike lane is dropped at
an intersection, you should check over your
left shoulder behind you for traffic.
Riding in Bike Lanes
MOTORISTS ARE ALLOWED TO
MOVE INTO THE BIKE LANE 200
FEET IN ADVANCE OF MAKING A
RIGHT TURN, and it is required for
them to move right into the section
of bike lane that is bordered
by a dashed line ( as shown in
photo of the Bookmobile) as they
prepare to make a right turn at an
intersection. Cyclists should pass
such motorists on the left, or wait
behind them until they make their
right turn.
The BookMobile shares the dashed bike lane as it
prepares to turn right.
13
Class III Bicycle Routes ( routes without
striped bike lanes) necessitate bicycling
in or near the flow of motor vehicle traffic.
Sometimes it means sharing the same lane
space as motor vehicles. On these streets
it is important for bicyclists to remember to
stay out of the “ Door Zone.”
In order to better inform both drivers and
cyclists how to more safely share these
traffic lanes, the City of San Francisco
is pioneering a new pavement marking.
The NEW SHARED LANE PAVEMENT
MARKINGS are intended to show where
cyclists should ride on the street to avoid a
suddenly- opened door of a parked car, and
alert motorists to the presence of bicyclists
in the traffic lane. They will also be used
in situations where it may not be obvious
where cyclists should be riding, such as
approaches to intersections with multiple
turn lanes.
After a several
year effort, the
MTA Bicycle
Program got
approval from
the state of
California to
use this new
p a v e m e n t
marking on
bicycle routes.
More than 2,500 of these markings will
eventually designate shared lane space on
Class III bicycle routes throughout the city.
On some streets, cyclists riding over the
Riding on Bike Routes
A cyclist shares the right lane on Market with
cars
Riding on Bike Routes
􀀦 􀁉 􀁎 􀁄 􀀀 􀁏 􀁕 􀁔 􀀀 􀁍 􀁏 􀁒 􀁅 􀀀 􀁁 􀁔
􀁗 􀁗 􀁗 􀀎 􀁂 􀁉 􀁃 􀁙 􀁃 􀁌 􀁅 􀀎 􀁓 􀁆 􀁇 􀁏 􀁖 􀀎 􀁏 􀁒 􀁇
􀀢 􀀩 􀀫 􀀥 􀀳 􀀀 􀀲 􀀩 􀀤 􀀥 􀀀 􀀨 􀀥 􀀲 􀀥
􀀩 􀁎 􀀀 􀀳 􀁈 􀁁 􀁒 􀁅 􀁄 􀀀 􀀬 􀁁 􀁎 􀁅 􀁓 􀀎 􀀎 􀀎
MTA Municipal
Transit
Authority
This ad ran on Muni buses during 2005 to introduce the new Shared Lane Markings
Shared Lane Marking and
“ Door Zone”
14
marking will take the entire lane. According
to the California Vehicle Code ( CVC) Section
21202, cyclists are to stay on the right
except to pass other cyclists or vehicles,
to prepare to make a left turn, or when
necessary to avoid conditions that make it
unsafe to continue along the right. Riding
a path to the left of the door zone, or other
roadside obstacles, even if it means taking
the entire lane, is permitted by the CVC.
If you see the Shared Lane Markings on
the street, motorists have the right to be
there, too. Shared lanes are different than
bike lanes, which are set aside for cyclists
and are marked by a solid white line and
a different symbol. Cyclists are allowed on
every street regardless of whether there is a
marking or sign for them, unless specifically
stated otherwise.
Sometimes the Shared Lane Marking is used
to instruct cyclists which lane to use, such
as this double right turn lane on Howard
Street. Cyclists traveling straight need to
ride in the center of the lane marked with
Shared Lane Markings to avoid conflicts
with turning vehicles.
Riding on Bike Routes
A cyclist rides safely past an open car door on
Polk Street.
15
VISIBILITY SHOULD BE YOUR FIRST
CONCERN WHEN RIDING AT NIGHT.
Because you may not be as visible to
others, and may not be able to see all the
details as well either, riding a bit slower at
night is usually a good idea. Although many
bikes are not fully equipped with reflectors
and lights, you should know that state law
requires you to have reflectors on the back,
wheels and pedals of your bike, and a white
front light that is visible from at least 200
feet, when riding at night. Many people use
the blinking red LED ( Light Emitting Diode)
lights on the back of their bikes as well.
REFLECTIVE AND LIGHT COLORED
CLOTHING are also very useful in making
yourself visible to others at night. Wearing
dark colors will make you blend into the
darkness and make it much harder for
motorists and pedestrians to see you.
POSITION ON THE STREET is an essential
way in which you can help make yourself
visible at night. At night you still want to
ride where drivers expect you to ride. See
sections on where to ride on the street for
more detailed information.
Bicycling at Night
Bicycling at Night
Reflectors and reflective clothing make you
more visible.
16
Wet weather can be slippery on two
wheels, but taking some easy precautions
will limit your risks. The first and most
important rule for wet pavement is: SLOW
DOWN! Visibility is limited in rain and fog,
so use lights and reflectors when possible.
Fog can also make the street surface as
wet as rainfall.
BRAKING AND STOPPING IN WET
WEATHER: In wet weather your brakes
take longer to engage, longer to stop your
bike, and it is much easier to skid or slide
your wheels as you brake. Start braking
earlier, and use your brakes more gradually
than you would on dry ground. The water
makes a lubricating layer between the
metal rim of the wheel and the rubber
brake pad. In order to burn the water from
your brake pads, you can also “ pump” your
brakes gently until they begin to work.
THE FIRST RAIN: OILY STREETS: Watch
out when it’s just rained for the first time
in a long time. Streets get a coating of oil,
tire rubber and other gunk that gets very
slippery when you first add water. Be more
careful and reduce your speed a bit on the
first wet day or two of the season.
SLIPPERY WET PAINT AND METAL:
Lane and crosswalk lines can be slippery
when wet. Cornering too fast in wet
conditions can lead to nasty falls. Utility
covers, streetcars tracks, drain grates,
BART/ Muni grates, and construction plates
that lack non- skid coating can also be very
slippery. Try to avoid these things when the
street is wet. If you have to ride on them,
don’t shift your weight or lean while riding
on slippery surfaces.
PUDDLES: What lies under the puddle?
Unless you know for sure, you may want
to ride around puddles to avoid potholes,
cracks in the pavement or other things
that lie hidden underwater. Even the debris
that gathers in these low spots can be
dangerous, or cause unwanted flat tires.
DRESSING FOR RAIN
For the novice and fair- weather cyclist
riding in rain can be an obstacle, but you
don’t have to let wet weather keep you off
your bike. Good cycling clothing is well-vented
and allows the rider to regulate
temperature while staying dry. Most
California rain – and San Francisco fog-doesn’t
require a full rain suit, rain booties
and a hood. Often, protecting yourself
against the water sprayed up from the
street is the main problem.
Riding in Rain and Fog
Riding in Rain and Fog
Riding in Rain and Fog 17
FENDERS are a great way to minimize
the water and grime that comes up off the
street onto you and your clothes. There are
now many kinds of fenders, both permanent
and “ snap- on” that can be installed on
almost any bicycle. A dedicated pair of
“ rain shoes” will allow you to get to your
destination without ruining your favorite
shoes.
Townsend Street after a rain, with water on the tracks.
18
Riding safely near large vehicles on city
streets requires special attention and
caution.
TIPS FOR SAFE RIDING AROUND
BUSES AND TRUCKS:
• Stay out of their “ blind spots”
• Never pass on the right
• Do not try to squeeze through or ahead at
bus zones – pass on the left
• Ride far enough behind so that the driver
can see you in their mirrors
• Stay at least 4 feet from sides and
wheels, so that you can’t fall under or
into the wheels
STREETCARS AND RR TRACKS
Riding Near Streetcars, Buses, Trucks and
other Large Vehicles
Riding Near Streetcars, Buses, Trucks and other Large Vehicles
Use Caution When Crossing Streetcar and RR
Tracks.
Riding Near Streetcars, Buses, Trucks and other Large Vehicles 19
CROSS TRAIN TRACKS WITH CAUTION
When riding near streetcars and railroad
tracks, you need to pay special attention
to the surface of the street. The weight of
the trains may cause cracks or unevenness
in the surrounding pavement as well. The
tracks themselves can be slippery and
awkward to cross – try to cross tracks at
90 degree angles whenever possible,
as shown in the graphic above. It is easy
to lose control as your wheel slides into
a parallel track groove, and you will fall
quickly and hard. Tracks also become more
slippery when wet, so pay closer attention
in foggy or rainy conditions. If you avoid the
tracks on Market Street, you’ll also avoid
the BART/ Muni ventilation grates ( see
section on GRATES, PLATES, TRENCHES
AND POTHOLES).
AVOID CONFLICTS WITH TRANSIT
It is also important to remember that when
you obstruct or delay a train or bus you
create a ripple effect, inconveniencing
not only the people on that train or bus,
but impacting the route service in general.
Transit lanes may look and feel like
beautifully wide bike lanes. They are not,
and you are not LEGALLY allowed to ride
in them. It is legally transit- only space, and
if you choose to use that space, you need
to do so without any negative impacts to
transit.
Never challenge the streetcar! They are
trains, weigh more than any vehicle on the
streets, and require
more time to stop.
Do not ride through
streetcar tunnels
or dedicated rights-of-
way. These areas
are designed only for
streetcars and riding
in or through them is
dangerous and illegal.
Muni tracks and grates on lower Market Street.
Try To Cross Tracks at a 90 Degree Angle
20
THE BICYCLE ROUTE NETWORK IN
SAN FRANCISCO has a unique sign,
and numbered routes that are based on
the Federal Highway system. The signs,
with Golden Gate Bridge, bicycle icon, and
route number, are complemented by the
destination placards at the bottom of the
sign. East- west bicycle routes have even
numbers increasing from north to south,
with route 50, on Market Street, dividing
the city. North- South bicycle routes have
odd numbers, increasing from east to west.
Three digit numbers denote connector
routes. Cross- town routes are indicated by
signs with a red bridge. Local route signs
show a green bridge. Directional placards
below some route signs direct the rider to
popular destinations. To avoid confusion
with local highways, bicycle route numbers
do not duplicate highway numbers within
San Francisco ( 1, 35, 80, 82, 101, 280).
San Francisco Bicycle Route Signs
San Francisco Bicycle Route Signs
21
What The Signs Means
When this yellow advisory sign is seen
on a multi- lane street, it is meant as both
an encouragement to cyclists to ride in
the center of the lane, if necessary, and a
notice to motorists that cyclists may be in
the middle of the lane and that motorists
should change lanes to pass the bicyclist.
WHERE THESE SIGNS ARE INSTALLED
The intention of the “ BICYCLES ALLOWED
USE of FULL LANE” sign is to reduce unsafe
behaviors by both motorists and cyclists,
reduce related traffic injuries, and to
encourage both cyclists and motorists to
take the safest path where the right lane
is narrow and must be shared. The sign has
been installed on specific multi- lane streets
with significant bicycle collision history.
WHEN MAY BICYCLES USE THE FULL
LANE OR “ TAKE THE LANE?”
On multi- lane streets, where there are
no bike lanes, shoulder, or Shared Lane
Markings, and the right lane is too narrow
for motorists and cyclists to share side- by-side,
bicyclists should ride at least 3 feet
from the edge of the roadway or 4 feet from
parked cars. You may need to ride in the
center of the lane in order to be visible and
prevent motorists from passing you when
there isn’t enough room. You may also take
the lane when you’re traveling at the same
speed as traffic, which keeps you out of the
motorists’ blind spots and reduces conflicts
with oncoming traffic.
Bicycles Allowed Use of Full Lane
Bicycles Allowed Use of Full Lane
22
THEFT PREVENTION
Bicycle theft is common in San Francisco.
You must lock your bicycle whenever and
wherever you leave it, even if it is only
for a few seconds. Nothing will stop a
determined thief, but locking your bicycle
correctly with the right equipment, will
discourage the thief looking for easy
targets.
USE THE RIGHT HARDWARE: If possible,
combine two of these locking mechanisms
when parking your bicycle:
U- LOCKS: Purchase a lock made with
strong components ( like steel alloy). These
come in a very small size, useful for locking
just a frame or wheel to a rack or pole, in
combination with a cable, or a larger size,
which will allow cyclists to lock a wheel
and frame to a rack or will fit around larger
diameter objects.
CHAINS: A chain such as the “ New York
Lock” are very strong and secure; however,
they are very heavy, so you will have to
weigh relative security vs. how much
weight you want to carry. Other, smaller
chains may be helpful in augmenting a u-lock,
but can be cut easily, so ask questions
of the retailer where you are buying the
chain. You will also need some kind of lock
to secure the chain around your bike.
CABLES: This can be a good alternative
to a chain, since they can be just as strong
or stronger and are lighter and more easily
carried. Use a cable at least 3/ 8” thick.
Again, you will also need a lock.
HOW TO LOCK YOUR BIKE
LOCK THE ENTIRE BIKE: Make sure you
lock both the wheels and frame. This might
Bicycle Parking in San Francisco
Bicycle Parking in San Francisco
Both wheels and the bicycle frame should be locked to the rack.
On- Street Bicycle Parking at the Main Library.
23
mean you’ll need to remove your front
wheel ( if it has a quick- release hub) and
lock it.
If you lock just your wheel, a thief could
steal the rest of your bike – or vice- versa.
Leave as little slack in your chain or cable as
possible, and make sure that there is little
or no space in the middle of the lock that
would allow a thief to pry the lock open.
WHERE TO LOCK YOUR BIKE
If you are planning to leave your bike all
day at your place of work, you may want
to consider finding bicycle parking inside
a building or renting a bicycle locker.
Habitual bike parking at a certain place
and time alerts a thief to a possible theft
opportunity.
VISIBILITY: where possible, lock bicycles
within sight of where you’re going. Don’t
be the only bicycle parked in an area – it is
safer to park where there is activity.
BICYCLE RACKS: The MTA Bicycle
Program has installed over 1,500 bicycle
racks in all parts of San Francisco. Many are
concentrated on bicycle corridors, so there
is a good chance there will be a rack where
you want to go. Ideally, racks are meant
to provide short- term parking, so they are
best used for recreation or shopping trips.
If you find there is no rack where you intend
to park, please contact the MTA Bicycle
Program hotline at ( 415) 585- BIKE or e- mail
www. bicycle. sfgov. org to request a rack.
COLUMBUS AV.
BROADWAY BROADWAY
LOMBARD ST.
MARINA BLVD.
ST.
DIVISADERO ST.
FELL ST.
OAK ST.
WAY
STANYAN BLVD.
MISSION ST.
MARKET MARKET ST.
THE EMBARCADERO
GEARY BLVD.
VAN NESS AV.
THEEMBARCADERO
DIVISADERO ST.
ST.
UNION ST. UNION ST.
PRESIDIO AV.
HAIGHT ST.
GEARY ST.
16TH ST. 16TH ST.
FILLMORE ST.
BAY ST.
FILLMORE
CALIFORNIA ST.
KENNEDY DR.
KING, JR.
DR.
DOYLE DRIVE
LOMBARD
PRESIDIO
LINCOLN BLVD.
KING ST.
RICHARDSON AV.
11TH ST.
10TH ST.
9TH ST.
8TH ST.
7TH ST.
6TH ST.
7TH ST.
4TH ST.
5TH ST.
STEUART
SPEAR ST.
MAIN ST.
BEALE ST.
1ST ST.
2ND ST.
FREMONT ST.
HOWARD ST.
FOLSOM ST.
HARRISON ST.
BRYANT ST.
BRANNAN ST.
TOWNSEND ST.
CHANNEL ST.
5TH AV.
4TH AV.
3RD AV.
2ND AV.
ARGUELLO BLVD.
BAKER ST.
BRODERICK ST.
SCOTT ST.
PIERCE
WEBSTER ST.
BUCHANAN ST.
LAGUNA ST.
OCTAVIA ST.
FRANKLIN ST.
POLK ST.
LOMBARD ST.
CHESTNUT ST.
GREENWICH ST.
FILBERT ST.
GREEN ST.
VALLEJO ST.
PACIFIC AV.
JACKSON ST.
FRANCISCO
WASHINGTON ST.
CLAY ST.
SACRAMENTO ST.
CALIFORNIA ST.
PINE ST.
BUSH ST.
SUTTER ST.
POST ST.
O'FARRELL ST.
ELLIS ST.
EDDY ST.
TURK ST.
GOLDEN GATE AV.
McALLISTER ST.
FRANCISCO ST.
JEFFERSON ST.
BEACH ST.
NORTH POINT ST.
ST.
.
POLK
LARKIN
HYDE ST.
LEAVENWORTH ST.
JONES ST.
TAYLOR ST.
MASON ST.
POWELL ST.
STOCKTON ST.
KEARNY ST.
MONTGOMERY ST.
SANSOME ST.
BATTERY ST.
FRONT ST.
DAVIS ST.
DRUMM
JEFFERSON ST.
BEACH ST.
NORTH POINT ST.
BAY ST.
FRANCISCO ST.
CHESTNUT ST.
GREENWICH ST.
FILBERT ST.
GREEN ST.
VALLEJO ST.
CERVANTESBLVD.
ST.
STEINER ST.
MASONIC AV.
CENTRAL AV.
LYON ST.
BAKER ST.
BRODERICK ST.
SHRADER
GROVE ST.
HAYES ST.
COLE ST.
SPRUCE ST.
ST.
PARKER AV.
3RD
2ND AV.
AV.
PARNASSUS AV.
DUBOCE AV.
WALLER ST.
GROVE ST.
HAYES ST.
ELLIS ST.
EDDY ST.
TURK ST.
GOLDEN GATE AV.
McALLISTER ST.
FULTON ST.
.
KEZAR
DR.
DIVISION ST.
14TH ST.
15TH ST.
17TH ST.
MARIPOSAST.
.
17TH ST.
TERRY FRANCOIS
ST.
6TH ST.
15THST.
PACIFIC AV.
JACKSON ST.
WASHINGTON ST.
CLAY ST.
CALIFORNIA ST.
PINE ST.
BUSH ST.
SUTTER ST.
POST ST.
JACKSON ST.
WASHINGTON ST.
CLAY ST.
SACRAMENTO ST.
SCOTT ST.
PIERCE ST.
STEINER ST.
LYON ST.
BAKER ST.
BRODERICK ST.
FRANKLIN ST.
OCTAVIA ST.
WEBSTER
BUCHANAN ST.
LAGUNA ST.
ST.
MASONIC AV.
14TH ST.
GRANT AV.
GOUGH ST. GOUGH ST.
15TH ST.
ST.
LARKIN ST.
HYDE ST.
3RD ST.
MARIPOSA ST.
ASHBURY ST.
CLAYTON ST.
BUENA VISTA
AV.
WEST
BUENA VISTA
AV. EAST
LYON ST.
BLVD.
ARGUELLO
.
CORNWALL ST.
LUPINEAV.
WOODST.
WOOD
EMERSON
ST.
ST.
COOK ST.
COLLINS ST.
BLAKE ST.
WILLARD N.
PARSONS
ST.
BEAUMONT AV.
FREDERICK ST.
WALLER ST.
PAGE ST.
ROOSEVELT WY.
OTISMcCOPPIN
SPRUCE ST.
CHERRY ST.
MAPLE ST.
LOCUST ST.
LAUREL ST.
WALNUT ST.
O'FARRELL ST.
EUCLID AV.
12TH ST.
BERRY ST.
RD.
MORTON ST.
MORAGA AV.
FUNSTON AV.
TAYLOR RD.
MONTGOMERY ST.
ANZA ST.
GRAHAM ST.
PACIFIC AV.
PRESIDIO BLVD.
BARNARD
AV.
KEYES AV.
MESA ST.
SHERIDAN
AV.
DR.
LETTERMAN
LOWER
TERR
STATES ST.
ORDCT.
MUSEUM WY.
ASHBURY
TERR.
CLIFFORD TERR.
HILLWAY AV.
HILL
POINT
FARNSWORTH
LN.
DLAND AV.
GRATTAN ST.
CARL ST.
LAUSSAT ST.
GERMANIA ST.
HERMANN ST.
IVY ST.
LINDEN ST.
HICKORY ST.
LILY ST.
ROSE ST.
JULIAN
ALBION ST.
REATCHULA LN.
SHARON
BOWLINGGREEN
DR.
CONSERVATORY
CAPRA WY.
CASAWY.
RICO
PRADO
RETIRO
AVILA
MOULTON ST.
PIXLEY ST.
NORMANDIE
TERR.
MILEY ST.
OLIVE ST.
WILLOW ST.
BIRCHST.
WILLOW
SEYMOUR
ST.
WALLERST.
STEVENSON ST.
CALEDONIA
ST.
OSPER ST.
MINNAST.
NATOMA ST.
RINGOLD ST.
SHERIDAN
JUNIPER ST. KISSLING
MINNA ST.
NATOMA ST.
TEHAMA ST.
CLEMENTINA ST.
NATOMA ST.
LANGTON
RAUSCH
SUMNER
ST.
MOSS ST.
RUSS ST.
HARRIET
COLUMBIA
SQUARE
SHERMAN ST.
TEHAMA ST.
CLEMENTINA ST.
SHIPLEY ST.
CLARA ST.
HAWTHORNE ST.
HOOPERST.
IRWIN ST.
HUBBELL ST.
BERRY ST.
8TH ST.
MISSION
ROCK ST.
GARDEN ST.
ERKSON
CT.
FERN
AVILA
TOLEDO
WAY
CLEARY
ST.
FREELON ST.
BLUXOME ST.
STEVENSON ST.
JESSIE ST.
OWENS ST.
ALAMEDA ST.
HUGO ST.
PARAMOUNT
TERR.
ALPINE TERR.
LORAINE
C T.
ALMADEN
CT.
EDWARD
ST.
ROSSI AV.
TEMESCAL
TERR.
CHABOT
TERR.
KITTREDGE
TERR.
ROSELYN
TERR.
TAMALPAIS
TERR.
ANNAPOLIS
TERR.
EWING
TERR.
VEGA ST.
NIDO AV.
BARCELONA
ENCANTOAV.
FORTUNAAV.
GOLDEN
GATE AV.
LOYOLA
HEMWAY
ATALAYA
HEATHER
IRIS AV.
MANZANITA
LAUREL
BEULAHST.
FLINTST.
HENRY ST.
BEAVER ST.
DOWNEY
BELVEDERE
E. CONSERVATORY DR.
W.
MIDDLE DR. E.
ALHAMBRA
MALLORCA
PALM AV.
JORDAN AV.
COMMONWEALTH AV.
SOUTH
CT.
ELM
AVERY
S T.
WILMOT ST.
LARCH
ST.
HENRY ADAMS
PERINE PL.
WALTER ST.
ST.
WY.
BAKER ST.
ST. JOSEPH'S AV.
LLOYD
ST.
PRESIDIOTERR.
MINNA ST.
MYRTLE ST.
CEDAR ST.
HEMLOCK ST.
15TH ST.
WY.
AUSTIN ST.
JEAN
WY.
LEVANT ST.
TAH
PIED
STARRKING
PETERYORKE
DELMAR ST.
RESERVOIR
ST.
BELCHER
ST.
BLANEY
MASON ST.
DEEMS RD.
AV.
HALLECK ST.
DEWITTRD.
THORNBURG RD.
RUGER AV.
EDIE RD.
GORGAS AV.
KENNEDY AV.
OREILLY AV.
SUMNER
AV.
SIBLEYVISTA
CT.
SANCHES ST.
RODRIGUEZST.
PORTOLA ST.
MACARTHUR AV.
QUARRY RD.
MACRAEST.
SHAFTER RD. BLVD.
SHERMANRD.
SIMONDS
LOOP
LOOP
SIBERT
TERR.
MAC ARTHURAV.
GIRARD
TORNEY AV.
LIGGETT AV.
CLARK ST.
BAY
INFANTRY
THOMAS
FERNANDEZ
EL
POLINLOOP
FISHER
LOOP
HARDIE AV.
ANZAV ISTA AV.
VISTA
LYON
ST.
MAYFAIR DR.
TERRA
McALLISTER
ANZAVISTA AV.
AV.
BEIDEMAN ST.
HOLLIS ST.
BUENA VISTA
TERR.
JAVA ST.
PARK
AV.
ZOEST.
DORE ST.
PLUM ST.
HARRIET ST.
BOARDMAN PL.
GILBERT ST.
STANFORD ST.
ERIE
ST.
ALERT
NAL
SPARROW
ENTERPRISE ST.
HIDALGO
MARYST.
JESSIE
ELGIN PARK
PEARL
CLINTON PARK
BROSNAN ST.
WOODWARD
ST.
RAMONA
PINK
PARK HILL
BROMLEY
ORBEN
PL.
CHARLTON
CAMP
FALMOUTH
REDWOOD
JESSIE ST.
MAGNOLIA ST.
HARRIS
PL.
CARMELITA
ST.
POTOMAC
ST.
JALPHO
CT.
CRAM
PL.
REDWOOD ST.
HEMLOCK ST.
COTTAGE
ROW
LEONA
TERR.
LAPU LAPU
STILLMAN ST.
AHLERS
CT.
RAYCLIFF
DAGGETT
ST.
GRACE ST.
NORFOLK
ISIS ST.
BERNICE
ST.
LAFAYETTE
TRAINOR
ST.
CYRIL MAGNINST.
GAISER
RITCHST.
BYINGTON
ST.
LOVE
ADAIR
MOE ST.
VULCAN
STAIRWAY
NDST.
ROSEMONT
PL.
HOFF ST.
RONDEL PL.
DEHON
HARLOW
LOMA
VISTA
BOYNTON
CT.
EL
BBEY
ST.
WEST
BROADWAY
WALLEN
S T.
Mission Creek Marina
Lily
Pond
101
101
101
80
EMBARCADERO STATION
MUNI / BART
CAL TRAIN STATION
4TH @ KING
( UNDERWAY)
10
365
2
565
65
165
4
6
11
5
40
23
30
50
25
16
310
210
19
36
55
61
51
30
47
45
345
350
545
17
20
106
32
123
325
55
50
25
40
N
bike lane
( dedicated bike lane on roadway edge)
bike path
( dedicated off- street - usually paved - bike path)
bike route
( bikes and cars share roadway - often narrow)
wide curb lane
( wider roadway)
garages with bike parking
lockers
bike station
( secure attended bicycle parking)
bike routes, garages, & lockers
Parking and Traffic Bicycle
1,100 bicycle racks
on sidewalks and in
garages. They also helped
garages install bicycle
a place to lock your
you want to go.
sfgov. org for a map
racks on the sidewalks. If
front of a business
patronize, please call
a bicycle rack. See
brochure for a map of
bicycle parking.
Traffic Services
bike racks
where you want to go
www. bicycle. sfgov. org
415- 585- BIKE
Bicycle Parking in San Francisco
This brochure and map provide complete bike parking information for San Francisco. To request a
bicycle locker, a bicycle rack, or this brochure, call 585- BIKE.
24 Bicycle Parking in San Francisco
bike racks
request a rack
www. bicycle. sfgov. org
BIKE RACKS
585- BIKE
Where you want to go
36_ BikeRacksAd0503- Salmon 5/ 22/ 03 8: 53 AM Page 1
ON- STREET BICYCLE PARKING: The
MTA Bicycle Program has also recently
taken the precedent- setting step of
removing automobile parking and installing
bicycle parking in its place in front of the
Grove Street entrance of the Main Library.
This project has been very successful in
eliminating sidewalk encroachments and
expanding bicycle parking spaces at the
same time.
SECURE BICYCLE PARKING - If you
plan to park your bike at your workplace
or residence, you may want more secure
parking - that is, parking your bike in a
garage which has bicycle racks and an
attendant, or renting a bicycle locker from
the MTA Bicycle Program. Garage locations
with bicycle racks can be found on our
website, www. bicycle. sfgov. org, or on the
“ San Francisco Bike Map”, available for
purchase at many bike shops, book stores
and Rainbow Grocery at 13th and Folsom
Streets.
BIKESTATIONS are a relatively new
alternative for secure bicycle parking. They
are located at transit hubs in San Francisco
and provide free, attended parking and
long hours. There are bikestations at the
Embarcadero Bart Station and at the Caltrain
Station at 4th and King Streets. There are
also bicycle racks inside the paid entrance
of the 16th Street and Civic Center Bart
Stations. Although 16th Street and Civic
Center parking are not directly attended,
they are more secure than parking your
bicycle on the streets.
WHERE THERE IS NO BIKE RACK:
PARKING METERS – If you lock your
bicycle to a parking meter, make sure to use
a u- lock, since thieves can just slip a bike
locked with a chain or cable over the top
of the meter. Be aware that bikes locked
to meters often twist and fall, creating an
obstacle for pedestrians.
SIGN POLES – These are not the best
place to lock your bike, since often a sign at
the top of the pole is not enough to stop a
thief from lifting your bike over the top, as
with a parking meter. Also, check whether
the pole has a secure footing before you
lock to it – it may be easily pulled out of
the ground.
Bicycle Parking in San Francisco 25
TREES – Do not lock a bicycle to a tree – it
damages the tree trunk and roots.
SAN FRANCISCO CITY ORDINANCES
REQUIRING BICYCLE PARKING
Information regarding which garages and
buildings are required to install bicycle
parking can be found on our website, www.
bicycle. sfgov. org.
A summary of the San Francisco bicycle
parking ordinances is as follows:
155.1 – requires bicycle parking in
City- owned and leased buildings
155.2 – requires bicycle parking in
certain privately- owned and all City-owned
automobile garages
155.3 – requires shower and locker
facilities in certain new or renovated
buildings
155.4 – requires bicycle parking in
certain new or renovated buildings
155.5 – requires bicycle parking for
residential uses
If you find a garage or building out of
compliance, the Planning Department
should be notified.
BICYCLE REGISTRATION AND
RECOVERY
REGISTERING YOUR BIKE – When you
obtain a new bike, write down the serial
number, take a photo, and put them in a safe
place. You might also register your bike at
the National Bike Registry, a good on- line
resource at www. nationalbikeregistry. com.
It is important to have the serial number
so that you can prove the bike that was
stolen and recovered is yours. In addition,
it helps the police identify and locate the
proper owner.
WHAT TO DO IF YOUR BIKE IS STOLEN
Report the theft to the police. Call 415/ 553-
0123 - then request a printed version of
the report at 415/ 553- 1289. Provide clearly
detailed descriptive information and the
bicycle’s serial number. The San Francisco
Police Department is linked to the national
database of stolen property, so you can
call the SFPD at any time to ask if a bike
with your serial number has been returned
anywhere in the U. S.
26
SF MUNI: Nearly all Muni buses have bike
racks that hold two bikes on a first come,
first served basis. Bicyclists should remove
packs and other detachable items from the
bicycle before loading it on the rack, and
should not hang helmets and other objects
from the bicycle before loading. To see a
short instructional video on loading bikes on
Muni bus racks, go to www. bicycle. sfgov.
org. When riding Muni buses with your
bike, you may want to lock your bike before
placing it on the rack, and/ or sit in the front
of the bus where you can see your bicycle.
Bike thefts have occurred from bus racks.
You will also want to alert the driver when
you are getting off, so that the bus doesn’t
leave the stop before you have off- loaded
your bicycle. Bicycles are NOT allowed on
Muni Metro trains, cable cars, or on the F-Market
historic streetcar line. Folding bikes
are not allowed inside any Muni vehicles,
but may be placed unfolded on bus
racks, on a first- come, first- served basis.
415.673.6864
www. sfmuni. com
BART
Bicycles are allowed on BART trains during
all times but peak commute hours in the
heavy commute direction. Bikes are not
allowed in the Downtown Oakland stations
during peak commute hours at all. Folding
bicycles are allowed on all BART trains, but
during peak commute hours they must be
folded before entering the train. Many BART
stations have bike lockers, some stations
have bike parking inside the paid areas
near station agent booths, and all stations
have on demand bicycle parking racks.
For more information on exact trains that
prohibit bicycles, see the BART schedule at:
www. bart. gov
510.465.2278
Bart Bike Lockers 510.464.7133
CALTRAIN
Rail service between San Francisco and
Santa Clara: the northern- most car ( with
bike decal on the door) carries 16, 24, or 32
bicycles. Bicycles should be clearly tagged
with destination and stacked in order of
exit station. Cyclists must be 16 years of
age or older.
800.660.4287
www. caltrain. com
Bikes on Transit
Bikes on Transit
Loading bikes on Muni buses is quick and easy.
27
SAMTRANS
Bus service between San Mateo and San
Francisco Counties. Buses are equipped
with bike racks that hold two bicycles, and
bicycles are allowed inside coaches with
less than 50% passenger occupancy.
800.660.4287
www. samtrans. org
AC TRANSIT
Many buses are equipped with bike racks
that hold two bikes, including Transbay
lines N and O. Cyclists must load and
unload their own bicycles.
Call 511
www. 511. org
GOLDEN GATE TRANSIT
Buses: All GGT buses are equipped with
racks that hold two bicycles.
Ferries: Bicycles are welcome aboard all
Larkspur and Sausalito Ferries on a first-come-
first served basis up to 25 bicycles.
The new Larkspur Catamaran allows 15
bicycles.
Call 511 or 711( TDD)
( Buses and Ferries) www. 511. org
AMTRAK
Bicycle are allowed on all four roundtrip
Capitol Corridor trains, which run between
San Jose and Sacramento, and on
connecting buses. Bikes are permitted
on two of the four round trip San Joaquin
trains and the connecting buses. Scheduled
departures leave from SF Ferry Building via
bus connection.
800. USA- RAIL
www. amtrak. com
CALTRANS BAY BRIDGE BIKE
SHUTTLE
510.286.0589
www. dot. ca. gov
BLUE AND GOLD FERRIES
( VALLEJO BAYLINK AND ALAMEDA-OAKLAND
FERRIES)
Ferries from San Francisco to Tiburon,
Vallejo, Alameda and Oakland. Bicycles are
allowed at the Captain’s discretion, on first-come,
first served basis.
Blue and Gold 415.773.1188
www. blueandgoldfleet. com
Vallejo Baylink 707.643.3779
www. baylinkferry. com
Alameda/ Oakland 510.522- 3300
www. eastbayferry. com
ALAMEDA HARBOR BAY MARITIME
FERRY
Provides service from Alameda to San
Francisco. Special service to 49er and
Giants games. Bicycles allowed at Captain’s
discretion.
510.769.5500
( Serving SBC and Monster Parks)
Bikes on Transit
28
SHOULD YOU WEAR A HELMET?
The easy and obvious answer is Yes!
California law requires bicyclists under 18
years of age to properly wear an approved
bicycle helmet whenever riding on public
roads, and in public parks. For adults,
wearing a helmet is always the best idea.
A helmet can save you from preventable
and unnecessary head and brain injury. A
brain injury is very serious, and should be
avoided whenever possible. Standard adult
bike helmet designs are still most commonly
used, but many commuters are choosing go
with more head coverage – either because
they come from a BMX, skateboarding,
skating, or skiing background, or because
they just want more protection. The rise in
commute cycling and the explosion of the
helmet fashion industry has even led to
“ commuter” helmets, that have a tougher
shell and can better absorb the abuse of
daily bike rack parking, storage under your
desk, and so on.
PROPER HELMET FIT,
ADJUSTMENT AND USE
As shown below, helmets should be worn
level on the head,
with one finger’s
width between the
rider’s eyebrow and
the bottom edge
of the helmet. Ear
slides should be
positioned just below the ears and chin
straps should be snug, with no visible slack
under the chin.
If your helmet does not fit correctly, it will
not protect you as well. Similarly, if you do
not adjust the straps, buckles and ear slides
correctly, even a properly fitted helmet may
not protect you like it could and should.
Even the ear slides are crucial to protecting
you brain. Take a moment every couple of
months to re- check your helmet and adjust
it as needed.
REPLACING YOUR HELMET
You should usually replace your helmet
after any significant crash. Damaged
helmets should be thrown away or returned
to the manufacturer for replacement. Many
helmet companies offer “ Replacement
Helmets
Helmets
The helmet
should fit snugly.
Use the foam pads
to make it fit.
The helmet
should cover
the forehead.
Move the
plastic slide to
make the straps
meet just below
both ears.
Fasten the strap
under the chin, with
one finger’s width of
space between the strap
and the chin. The
helmet must ALWAYS
be buckled.
FITTING A BICYCLE HELMET
RIGHT
State of California
DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH SERVICES
State and Local Injury Control
Sacramento, California
Gently try to roll the helmet
backwards and forwards, and
side to side, on the head. The
helmet should not move more
than 1/ 2 inch in any direction.
1
2
4
3
El casco debe de sentirse
ajustado. Use las esponjitas
para ajustarlo.
The helmet should fit snugly. Use the
foam pads to make it fit.
El casco
debe de cubrir la
frente.
The helmet should
cover the forehead.
Mueva la
hebilla de
plástico
deslizable para
que las correas
queden
justamente
debajo de las
orejas.
Move the plastic
slide to make the
straps meet just
below both ears.
Abroche la correa
bajo la barbilla, dejando
un espacio del ancho de un
dedo entre la correa y la
barbilla. El casco SIEMPRE
tiene que estar abrochado.
Fasten the strap under the chin,
with one finger’s width of space
between the strap and the chin.
The helmet must ALWAYS be
buckled.
State of California
DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH SERVICES
State and Local Injury Control
Sacramento, California
Mueve el casco hacia atrás y hacia
adelante, y de un costado al otro,
lentamente al tenerlo puesto en la
cabeza. El casco no se debe de
mover más de media pulgada hacia
ningún lado.
Gently try to roll the helmet backwards and
forwards on the head. The helmet should
not move more than 1/ 2 inch in any direction.
COMO PONERSE EL CASCO DE
BICICLETA Y HACERLO BIEN
Fitting a Bicycle Helmet RIGHT
1
2
4
3
The bilingual helmet fitting guide above is
designed for youth, but applies to all ages. It is
available as a pdf at www. bicycle. sfogv. org.
29
Policies” and will replace a crashed helmet
free, or at reduced cost, so that they may
inspect and learn from crashed helmets.
THE LIFESPAN OF A BIKE HELMET
Common wisdom is that a styrofoam bicycle
helmet should be replaced every three to
five years, depending on how hard it is used,
exposure to the elements – especially sun
– and original manufacture date. A sticker
inside your helmet should tell you when it
was “ born.”
HELMET RESOURCES
Several studies have shown that cost is a
large factor in bicycle helmet use. Helmets
can usually be found at larger discount
stores, starting at around $ 15. If you want
a higher quality helmet, there are now
discount purchase programs available to
school, community, and faith- based groups,
to help provide access to people who
otherwise might have to spend the cost of a
helmet on something more urgent, like rent
or groceries. The MTA Bicycle Program is
also establishing a “ Helmet Bank” so that
the children of low- income families will
have better access to bicycle helmets. For
information on the SF Helmet Bank, call
585- BIKE or email bicycle@ sfgov. org and
leave a message.
HELMET BUYING GUIDE
Choose a helmet you like, that fits you
correctly, and that you will want to wear.
In addition to life- saving potential, bicycle
helmets have several other benefits. You
will keep cooler with helmets because of
the way the vents are designed on your
helmet. A continuous flow of cool air is
driven over your head like a cool breeze.
Some helmets come with a visor, or better
yet, a removable visor.
SF Bicycle Coalition volunteers distribute free
helmets to youth, and do bike tune- ups at a
community event in the Bayview.
Helmets
30
HELMET SAFETY STANDARDS
CPSC and Snell Memorial Foundation are
the two helmet certifications to look for
when buying a new helmet. The older ANSI
and ASTM standards may still appear in
older batches of helmets still in retail stock.
Look for CPSC and/ or Snell certification
stickers inside the helmet.
Bicycle helmets typically come in at
least 3 different sizes.
Small is typically 20 to 22 inches;
Medium is typically 22 to 23 1/ 2 inches;
and
Large is typically 23 1/ 2 to 24 1/ 2 inches.
Infant, Toddler, Youth and XL sizes are often
available also.
For accurate sizing, measure your head
right above the eyebrows, where the
helmet should be worn. Bicycle helmets
come with changeable fitting pads, so you
can adjust your helmet to fit perfectly. After
you purchase your bicycle helmet, read the
instructions carefully, and make sure your
helmet fits snug and securely. The owner’s
manual will also inform you of any crash
replacement policy that the manufacturer
may offer.
More expensive helmets do not equate
to safer helmets. The added benefits you
get are lighter weight, advanced strapping
systems, more vents, or more rugged
construction. Be aware of gimmicks. You
want a smoothly rounded outer shell, with
no sharp ribs or snag points. A large number
of vents may mean less area contacting your
head, which could concentrate force on one
point. “ Aero” helmets are not noticeably
faster, and in a crash the “ tail” could snag
or knock the helmet aside. Skinny straps
are less comfortable. Dark helmets are
harder for motorists to see. Rigid visors can
snag or shatter in a fall. Helmet standards
do not address these issues-- it’s up to you
to make these choices.
Helmets
31
Wear your helmet! Helmets will never
prevent collisions, but they do a great job
of preventing brain injuries when worn
properly. For more information, see the
section on HELMETS in this Guide.
EMERGENCY BICYCLE HANDLING
SKILLS
Sometimes you’ll do everything right and
still end up in trouble. It is a good idea to
learn a few physical skills that will allow
you to take evasive action when you find
yourself in a sticky situation. These and
other skills are part of the “ Road 1” class
offered free by the San Francisco Bicycle
Coalition in collaboration with the MTA
Bicycle Program and the San Francisco
County Transportation Authority ( See
BICYCLE EDUCATION section of this Guide.)
This class, in conjunction with the in- class
“ Street Skills” session, provides cyclists
with training in urban riding skills that will
reduce the risks of collision and injury. Both
classes are based on the national curriculum
of the League of American Bicyclists ( LAB)
and are taught by certified LAB Cycling
Instructors ( LCIs). For more information
on these classes, or on becoming an LCI,
please call 431- BIKE or visit www. sfbike.
org/ edu.
The following skills can help you avoid
crashes and collisions. Each skill takes
practice to master, but is worth the time
and effort. Practice these maneuvers in a
safe, controlled place – not on the street
in traffic!
Avoiding Collisions and Injuries
Avoiding Collisions and Injuries
Instructor teaching safety skills during “ Road 1”
class.
Instructor teaches the shoulder check at “ Road
1” class.
Shoulder check near the Civic Center.
32
SHOULDER CHECK: This is simply looking
behind you over your left shoulder to see
what is coming behind you. Why look over
your left shoulder? It’s the one that is on the
side of traffic, and when you look over it,
you’ll see what traffic is coming up behind
you. Practice looking back over your left
shoulder without swerving. You need to be
able to do this shoulder check while riding
a steady straight line, so that you don’t
swerve into traffic or into parked cars! An
easy way to practice this is to ride straight
away from a friend and have them hold
up some fingers. When you look back yell
out how many fingers they are holding up.
Repeat this drill until you can ride straight
while looking back, and are comfortable
doing it.
QUICK STOP: This skill involves stopping
as fast as you can, without skidding, losing
control, or going over the handlebars. As
you begin to brake evenly with both brakes,
you will slide your weight back on your
seat, giving the rear tire more traction. This
will help you stop faster and under better
control. In a typical stopping situation, 80%
of your weight is on your front wheel. At
high speeds this can mean that you lose
control, that your rear tire skids, or that you
fly over your handlebars.
ROCK DODGE: The Rock Dodge is a simple
and useful skill for urban riding. It allows
you to quickly and easily avoid rocks,
glass, bottle crowns, small potholes, and
other things you don’t want to ride over or
through. To practice this skill, while riding
straight at speed, you will first “ twitch”
your handlebars slightly one direction, and
then “ twitch” them back in the opposite
direction. This steers the bike out from
underneath you and instantly creates a
slight lean in your bike, while allowing
your body to continue in its straight path
of travel. The wheels and tires will avoid
the rock and you’ll still be happily on your
way. You may also want to put your weight
on your pedals and lift your weight slightly
from your seat. If you hit the rock with your
weight on your seat, you are more likely to
Avoiding Collisions and Injuries
As the rider brakes for a “ Quick Stop” she
shifts her weight back on the seat and lower, to
improve traction on the asphalt.
“ Road 1” students dodge a sponge while
learning the “ Rock Dodge”.
Avoiding Collisions and Injuries 33
get a flat tire. If you shift your weight to the
pedals, this type of flat tire can usually be
avoided.
INSTANT TURN: This skill is useful in
avoiding a collision when a car overtakes
you and makes a right turn in front of you.
If you do not have time to stop, you’ll need
an escape route and the best thing to do
is to follow the car around the corner. This
requires high speed cornering skills, that
you can gradually learn from this drill. The
other time this is most useful in city traffic
is when you have an oncoming vehicle
make a left turn in front of you.
In order to practice this skill you need an
asphalt surface ( playground, tennis or
basketball court, empty parking lot, etc.)
Start slowly and pick up speed as you
repeat the drill and get more comfortable
with this skill. As in the Rock Dodge above,
while riding straight at speed, you will
first “ twitch” your handlebars slightly,
but in the opposite direction of the way
you want to turn. This steers the bike out
from underneath your body and instantly
creates a lean in the direction you wish to
turn and prepares you to turn much sharper
without losing control. After the “ twitch”
of the handlebars you will then turn your
handlebars the other direction and turn
hard into your INSTANT TURN.
NOTE: This skill is awkward- feeling and it
will take some time to develop a comfort
level while doing the Instant Turn. At first,
your body will fight to do the opposite of
what you ask it during this drill. For this
reason you should start slowly and build
the skill as you get more comfortable.
Students practice instant turns during “ Road
1” class.
34
The streets of San Francisco are under
nearly- constant repair. The resultant steel
plates, open trenches, and asphalt patch-work
add obstacles to the existing tapestry
of metal utility covers, sewer drain grates,
and BART/ Muni ventilation grates. Potholes
and broken pavement can also require your
full attention. Metal utility covers can be
also be slippery and often make for a rough
ride. All of these potential obstacles require
your attention and care in navigation.
Potholes and broken pavement should
be reported to DPW Street Repair at
695- 2100.
DRAINAGE GRATES should be avoided
if aligned incorrectly, so bicycle tires can
fall between the bars. In the 1990’ s Peter
Tannen, former Bicycle Program Manager,
rode every street within the City limits and
had every misaligned drain grate replaced
or retrofitted. For this Herculean task
Tannen was recognized by the California
Bicycle Safety Network, and his efforts
ensure that one less common obstacle
plagues San Francisco bicyclists.
Grates, Plates, Trenches and Potholes
Grates, Plates, Trenches and Potholes
Utility covers are ground smooth over the years
and become more slippery.
This drain grate is aligned to prevent trapping
bicycle wheels.
A misaligned drain grate can trap a bicycle
wheel.
35
It requires skill and balance to safely ride
across the BART/ MUNI VENTILATION
GRATES, and it is advisable to avoid
them even in dry conditions. When wet
they are especially slippery. After the
construction of the Muni Metro and BART
underground systems, the local bicycle
messenger community dubbed these grates
“ The Cheese Graters” after
witnessing cyclists crash on
them. You will find these large
grates on Market and Mission
Streets. Be prepared.
The HEAVY STEEL CONSTRUCTION
PLATES used to cover trenches and
other roadway construction are required
by City Code to have non- skid surfaces.
Unfortunately, sometimes the non- skid
coating wears off, or old smooth plates
are used. Without a non- skid coating these
plates are slippery and can be hard to
negotiate. All street trenching work must
be patched and/ or ramped every day – no
abrupt edges of ¾ inch or more may be left
overnight. Report any smooth plating or
open trenches you encounter to the
Department of Public Works’( DPW)
Street Construction Coordination
Center at 554- SCCC ( 7222).
BART grates and Muni tracks present issues for
bicyclists.
This construction plate lacks required non- skid coating.
Grates, Plates, Trenches and Potholes
36
If you are involved in a bicycle crash,
always assume you are injured and DON’T
REFUSE MEDICAL ATTENTION, even if
you feel that you may not need it. You may
be in shock, injuries may not be apparent
immediately, and professional medical
documentation is critical in any insurance
claims, not to mention for your health and
well- being.
CALL 911 AND REPORT THE COLLISION
IMMEDIATELY.
ALWAYS MAKE A POLICE REPORT. If
you are injured, it is required that the Police
come to the scene and make a complete
collision report. IF YOU DO NOT GET A
POLICE REPORT ON THE SCENE, obtain
the other driver’s license number, insurance
information, vehicle license plate number
and description of both the car and driver.
If this isn’t all possible, write down or
remember the license plate number. In
property damage- only collisions, the police
are not required to come to the scene to
complete a report. In this case, you should
go to the local police station and file a
“ counter report”. This is critical in the event
of later insurance claims or legal action.
DON’T DISCUSS FAULT IMMEDIATELY
AFTER A COLLISION. You may want to
reassure a shocked driver that things will
be okay, but don’t say anything that limits
or admits fault in the collision. Make sure
to write down what you think happened
as soon as possible, and in as much detail
as you can remember. If you can, draw a
diagram of how the collision happened.
Always carry ID, medical insurance
information, and emergency contact
information, especially if you’re riding
alone.
DOCUMENT YOUR INJURIES AND
PROPERTY DAMAGE with photos or
videotape, and save all receipts and repair
estimates. Save your bike even if it has been
totaled. Contact your insurance company
if you have coverage for your bicycle. You
may also want to contact an attorney.
What to do if you get in a collision
What to do if you get in a collision
The CoExist Campaign 37
THE COEXIST CAMPAIGN is an ongoing
effort by the MTA Bicycle Program and
the San Francisco Bicycle Coalition.
Initiated in 2001, the campaign combines
outdoor media messages, grassroots
level promotional incentives, and even
engineering implementations to foster
cooperation and peaceful use of shared
lanes on San Francisco streets.
A primary objective of the CoExist Campaign
is to ensure that bicyclists will not ride in
the “ door zone,” where they are at risk of
collision with the open doors of parked cars.
Critical to this effort is alerting motorists
that bicyclists have the right to share the
traffic lane, and that motorists should pass
bicycles safely, with caution and respect.
For more information on CoExist, or to get
CoExist stickers, go to www. bicycle. sfgov.
org or www. sfbike. org.
The CoExist Campaign
“ Door Zone” CoExist poster.
CoExist stickers for bumpers and bikes.
38
Another product of the CoExist Campaign
is the “ Watch For Bikes” side- view mirror
sticker. This clear sticker, available by
calling 585- BIKE or emailing bicycle@
sfgov. org, is placed on vehicles driver
side mirror to remind the driver not to
open car doors without first checking for
bicycles.
These light- hearted posters sought to engage both
bicyclist and motorist, promoting safe lane sharing.
The CoExist Campaign
The “ Watch for Bikes” section peels off and is
applied directly to the driver’s side mirror.
39
FREE Nationally Certified Classes for
Bicyclists!
In a collaboration between the San Francisco
Bicycle Coalition, the MTA Bicycle Program,
and the San Francisco Transportation
Authority, the city offers adult bicycle
education classes. In- class “ Street Skills”
and on- road “ Road 1” classes are offered at
regular intervals throughout the year. These
classes are a recognized national curriculum
from the League of American Bicyclists Bike
Ed Program, and are taught by trained and
certified League Cycling Instructors ( LCIs).
For more information on the League of
American Bicyclists, visit www. bikeleague.
org or call ( 202)- 822- 1333. The two part
series is designed to teach new and
novice cyclists the skills and awareness
to bicycle safely and confidently in urban
environments. For more information, or to
sign up for classes, visit www. sfbike. org/
edu or call 431- BIKE.
The city also maintains a MiniCity that is
available for use at Schools, Community
events, Health Fairs, and other public
events. This MiniCity is a mock street
environment, complete with signs, signals,
mini cars, buildings, and a set of railroad
tracks. The MiniCity can be set up on any
large asphalt surface, such as playgrounds,
basketball or tennis courts, or at the Waller
Street Bicycle Learning Area ( see below).
The MiniCity allows trained staff to teach
children necessary street skills in a safe
and controlled environment. For more
information, or to plan for an event, call
585- BIKE.
Bicycle Safety Education
Bicycle Safety Education
A “ Road 1” student completes the written test. New Instructors prepare for Road 1 class, with
lead instructor Bert Hill ( left).
40 Bicycle Safety Education
Susan Silber teaches new riders at World Environment Day, 2005 .
Kids learn safety skills and get their bikes tuned up at Bayview
Fit- n- Fun Fair.
41
The City also has a Bicycle Learning Area
on a closed block of Waller Street west
of Stanyan Street. The Learning Area is
designed for use by individuals, organized
groups, and the City- sponsored bicycle
safety classes noted above. The Learning
Area is set up to use with the MiniCity as
well. You can practice safety skills there
without having to worry about traffic or
pedestrians. For more information and an
instructional brochure, call 585- BIKE or
go to www. bicycle. sfgov. org, or visit any
Stanyan Street Bike Shop.
THE WALLER STREET BICYCLE
LEARNING AREA is designed to be used
both as a self- service practice and training
area for adult bicyclists who wish to prepare
themselves for the skills necessary to ride
on city streets, and as a child bicycle safety
instructional facility where parents and/
or trained cycling instructors may teach
children the “ rules of the road” and specific
bicycle safety lessons.
The Waller Street Bicycle Learning Area
The Waller Street Bicycle Learning Area
The layout of the Bicycle Learning Area includes skills stations and mini streets.
42
The Learning Area is organized around THREE
BASIC BICYCLE SAFETY PRINCIPLES:
1. Bicyclists must be visible to others
using our streets.
2. Bicyclists’ behavior must be
predictable.
3. Bicyclists must communicate with all
other types of street users.
Defensive cycling is key to safe bicycling
in urban areas. Be prepared for conflicts
and practice behaviors and skills which
minimize or avoid these conflicts.
The drill stations and mock streets within
the Learning Area are designed to build
both the physical skills necessary to ride
on city streets, and the awareness of and
correct bicyclist positioning on different
types of streets and travel lanes.
Bicyclists should always be in control
of their bicycle and responsible for their
actions.
STATION 1: LOOK OVER YOUR LEFT
SHOULDER
This drill is a fundamental of urban cycling.
The rider must be able to look back over
her/ his left shoulder ( which is closest to
the path of motor- vehicles) and check for
traffic approaching from behind. This must
be done while maintaining a straight path
of travel. The rider does not want to veer
into moving traffic or into parked cars while
making a shoulder check.
STATION 2: WEAVE / ROCK DODGE
Station 2 is designed to help the rider
develop or assess the fine motor skills
necessary to steer the bicycle in tricky
situations. It can be used both to develop
simple steering skills, and then later to
develop emergency maneuvers, such as
the “ rock dodge,” which can be used to
avoid potholes or debris in the path of the
bicycle.
The rider begins by riding around the
marked spots on the ground in a series
of “ S” patterns. For the “ rock dodge” the
rider practices a more instantaneous “ flick”
of the handle bars that allows the bikes’
tires to avoid the spot, while the rider’s
body maintains more of a straight path of
travel. This second maneuver requires more
comfort and skill on the bicycle and should
only be added after a rider can easily
navigate the Station and has increased the
speed with which they can do so.
STATION 3: BRAKING AND STOPPING
Controlled braking and stopping are very
important to safe bicycling. This Station
is designed to teach the rider how to
brake in a controlled manner, and stop at
a designated spot without skidding, losing
balance, or otherwise losing control of the
bicycle.
The rider pedals from the start line to the
line that says “ BRAKE.” At this line, the
rider begins to apply the brakes. Hand
The Waller Street Bicycle Learning Area
43
brakes should both be applied evenly and
equally. Foot, or “ coaster,” brakes should be
applied evenly while the pedals are in the
“ 3 and 9 o’clock” position with both pedal
cranks parallel to the ground. This gives
the rider the most control of the brakes and
allows for even downward pressure on the
pedal used for braking.
Note: Riders should practice braking without skidding!
A skid does not give the rider control… and needlessly
wears out tires.
STATION 4: CHAOS CIRCLE
The circle is designed to teach children the
need for basic traffic rules, and to further
develop handling skills. Groups of more
than 6 riders should be sent to ride inside
the circle with a single rule: “ Stay in the
circle.” Riders will experience conflicts,
near collisions, and frustration. After
letting them ride for only a moment or two,
an instructor should stop the group and ask
what was happening and why. The riders
will already see the need for rules and
some kind of order. This is an opening to
explain why we have traffic laws and “ rules
of the road.” Beginning with the simplest of
rules, using the correct side of the street.
Ask them to imagine the mayhem if all
street users drove, rode, and walked in the
way they had just been doing in the circle,
with no other rules.
Children can then be instructed to ride
within the circle, with some rules: ride
clockwise; ride two abreast; etc.
Riders can also practice riding in a
controlled space by doing a “ lap” around
the inner circle in each direction without
touching the inner or outer circle.
STATION 5: MOCK STREETS
The miniature streets are designed to
provide a training ground for practicing riding
on the types of streets riders will encounter
while riding in the city. It is suggested that
novice bicyclists choose streets with slower
more calm traffic until they develop the
skills and experience to negotiate streets
with heavier traffic and multi- lane streets
with more complex situations and traffic
patterns. When in doubt, take the safer or
less- traveled route.
The Waller Street Bicycle Learning Area
44
Know your bike. The illustration below names the parts of typical bikes.
Bike Parts and Terms
Bike Parts and Terms
45
Your bike should fit your body. Seat height
and reach to the handlebars are essential,
and more subtle sizing issues help to make
your bike a close extension of your body.
Correct bike fit allows you to completely
control your bike.
SEAT HEIGHT
Your seat should be at the height where your
reach to the pedal in the bottom position
almost fully extends your leg straight, but
not quite. If your seat height is too high
you’ll extend your leg too far, and could
cause injury. If your seat is too high, you
may have to rock from side to side in order
to reach the pedals, and this is obviously
not desirable. Correct seat height does not
allow for the rider to sit comfortably on the
seat and touch the ground with both feet.
You should only be able to reach the ground
with one foot, and will probably have to
stretch to do so. Novice riders and children
may want the seat height a bit lower than
normal in order to feel more comfortable
getting on and off the bike. As the cyclist
gains more experience on the bike, the
seat height should be raised to its
full correct height, so you get the
most out of the energy you put into
the pedals and reduce strain on your
legs and wear on your knees.
HANDLEBAR REACH
Handlebar reach is more an issue
of comfort, use and even medical
history, such as back injury. City riding
generally calls for a more upright riding
position, and this will mean that it is shorter
reach from the seat to the handlebars. An
upright position allows the rider to see
better in traffic, and be seen better by
drivers and pedestrians. Being visible to
others and seeing your urban environment
are both key to avoiding common collisions.
Most sport riders, whether road riders
or mountain bikers, choose a position
leaning more forward. In this position the
rider should just be able to see the hub
of the front wheel over the handlebars.
This position gets the rider lower, reduces
wind resistance and distributes the rider’s
weight more evenly, but can limit visibility.
One general rule is that you never want to
have your handlebars so far forward that
you have to lock your elbows to reach the
handlebars, as it will reduce your ability to
react and steer fluidly and quickly.
PROFESSIONAL BICYCLE FITTING
If you are interested in complete professional
bicycle fitting, call local bicycle shops to
see if they offer this service.
Bicycle Sizing and Fit
Bicycle Sizing and Fit
46
The gears on a bike allow you to ride all
kinds of terrain: flats, up hills and down
hills. Learning to use the gears may come
easily to some riders, or may be more of
a challenge. With San Francisco’s hills, it
is a good idea to learn to use your gears,
or you’ll likely be walking up some of our
steeper hills.
BICYCLE GEARS are changed in two
groups: front “ chain rings,” located on the
pedal cranks ( see picture below), which
are changed by using the shifter lever on
the left handlebar; and rear gear “ cogs,”
located on the back wheel ( also pictured
below) , which are changed by using the
shift lever on the right handlebar.
Note: some bicycles are now equipped with indicators
on the shifters that show which gear you are in. ( ie.
Gears 1- 8 on the right shifter and Chainrings 1- 3 on
the left shifter. In this case the lower the number, the
lower the gear.)
When the chain is on each of the front
“ chain rings,” there is a corresponding
group of gears ( 5- 10 gears) on the back
wheel that you can use. The small chain
ring, which is closest to the inside, and
nearest the bike frame, allows you to use
the lowest set of gears. These lowest
gears are used for climbing steep hills.
The middle and outer chain rings give you
a middle range of gears and a high range
of gears. The middle range of gears are the
most commonly used. The high gear range
is usually used for going fast on flat roads
or going downhill.
If you sit on your bike and look down at the
chain and gears they will look something
like the pictures below. On both the front
chain rings and rear gear cogs, when the
chain is on the left side of the range of
gears, you are in a lower gear. Conversely,
when the chain is on the right side of the
range of gears, you are in a higher gear.
Gearing and Shifting
Gearing and Shifting
Side view of a bicycle drive- train: rear gear cogs; rear derailleur, chain, front derailleur, front chain
rings and pedal cranks.
47
HOW MANY GEARS DO I HAVE?
If you have 8 or 9 gear cogs on the rear
wheel, and 3 front chain rings, you have
24 gears ( 8 gears x 3 chain rings) or 27
gears ( 9 gears x 3 chain rings). This wide
range of gears allows the rider to ride at a
more consistent level of effort when riding
uphill, downhill or on the flats. Learning to
use your gears effectively will allow you to
ride more smoothly and comfortably in all
situations. Practice
PEDALING CADENCE
( pedal revolutions per minute)
“ Cadence” is how fast you are pedaling.
Combined with the gear you are in, cadence
dictates how fast your bike goes. Typically,
a pedaling cadence of 75- 90 revolutions
per minute is the most efficient and has the
least impact on your knees. Assuming that
you pedal consistently at 75 rpms, and you
are in a “ low” gear that turns the rear wheel
a lower number times per pedal revolution,
your bike will go slower. At the same pedal
RPMs, when you are in a “ high” gear, your
bike will go faster.
SHIFTING GEARS
Shifitng gears on your bike is done by
moving the shift levers to pull ( or release)
metal cables, that in turn move the front
and rear derailleurs. The derailleurs in turn
move the chain from one chain ring ( front
gears) or gear cog ( rear gears on the back
wheel) to another.
YOU CAN ONLY SHIFT GEARS WHEN
YOU ARE PEDALING! The chain must be
moving in order for it to move from one gear
to another. If you shift when the pedals are
not turning, the result will be a noisy and
abrupt change of gears when you start
pedaling again, and you may even cause
the chain to fall off of the chain ring or rear
gear cog.
Gearing and Shifting
Front chain rings ( 3) Rear gear cogs
( 8 speed)
These two types of mountain bike shifters both
show the rider what gear the bike is in.
48
ANTICIPATE WHEN YOU WILL NEED
TO SHIFT. If you are approaching a hill
and will need a lower gear to climb the hill,
don’t wait until you are struggling to pedal
up the hill to change gears. Shift before
your pedaling cadence starts to slow down,
and you will make a smoother transition
into the hill. Similarly, if you are going down
hill, you may want to shift before you build
up too much speed, or when you begin to
pedal your pedals will spin freely and not
help to push you down the hill. Finally, shift
to a lower gear as you approach stop signs
and red signal lights. You’ll need a lower
gear to start from a stop, and shifting
while trying to begin riding across a busy
intersection may be troublesome, directing
your attention away from the traffic and
down to your gears. Also, starting from
a stop in high gear is slow and hard, and
puts undue strain on your knees. Prepare
for stop signs and signals by shifting down
as you slow to a stop – and remember to
keep pedaling while you shift, or you’ll start
out on the green light by having your chain
jump violently from the old gear to the new
one.
Gearing and Shifting
49
THE SAN FRANCISCO BIKE MAP AND
WALKING GUIDE is an excellent resource
for planning bicycle trips throughout the
City. The map shows all the bicycle routes
within the city, indicating the type of bicycle
facility on each street or path. The map also
shows street grades, so that the cyclist
may plan the flattest routes through the
city’s hilly terrain. The back side of the map
also contains important safety information
and handy transit linkages for bicycles ( also
see the TRANSIT section of this guide). The
map may be purchased at local bike shops,
book stores, and select grocery stores. You
may view a “ pdf” version of the map at
www. bicycle. sfgov. org.
THE CITY BICYCLE PARKING BROCHURE
is available by calling 585- BIKE. The map
above is included inside the brochure and
details bicycle parking throughout the city,
along with key bicycle routes.
Brochures and Publications
Brochures and Publications
COLUMBUS AV.
BROADWAY BROADWAY
LOMBARD ST.
MARINA BLVD.
ST.
DIVISADERO ST.
FELL ST.
OAK ST.
WAY
STANYAN BLVD.
MISSION ST.
MARKET MARKET ST.
THE EMBARCADERO
GEARY BLVD.
VAN NESS AV.
THEEMBARCADERO
DIVISADERO ST.
ST.
UNION ST. UNION ST.
PRESIDIO AV.
HAIGHT ST.
GEARY ST.
16TH ST. 16TH ST.
FILLMORE ST.
BAY ST.
FILLMORE
CALIFORNIA ST.
KENNEDY DR.
KING, JR.
DR.
DOYLE DRIVE
LOMBARD
PRESIDIO
LINCOLN BLVD.
KING ST.
RICHARDSON AV.
11TH ST.
10TH ST.
9TH ST.
8TH ST.
7TH ST.
6TH ST.
7TH ST.
4TH ST.
5TH ST.
STEUART
SPEAR ST.
MAIN ST.
BEALE ST.
1ST ST.
2ND ST.
FREMONT ST.
HOWARD ST.
FOLSOM ST.
HARRISON ST.
BRYANT ST.
BRANNAN ST.
TOWNSEND ST.
CHANNEL ST.
5TH AV.
4TH AV.
3RD AV.
2ND AV.
ARGUELLO BLVD.
BAKER ST.
BRODERICK ST.
SCOTT ST.
PIERCE
WEBSTER ST.
BUCHANAN ST.
LAGUNA ST.
OCTAVIA ST.
FRANKLIN ST.
POLK ST.
LOMBARD ST.
CHESTNUT ST.
GREENWICH ST.
FILBERT ST.
GREEN ST.
VALLEJO ST.
PACIFIC AV.
JACKSON ST.
FRANCISCO
WASHINGTON ST.
CLAY ST.
SACRAMENTO ST.
CALIFORNIA ST.
PINE ST.
BUSH ST.
SUTTER ST.
POST ST.
O'FARRELL ST.
ELLIS ST.
EDDY ST.
TURK ST.
GOLDEN GATE AV.
McALLISTER ST.
FRANCISCO ST.
JEFFERSON ST.
BEACH ST.
NORTH POINT ST.
ST.
.
POLK
LARKIN
HYDE ST.
LEAVENWORTH ST.
JONES ST.
TAYLOR ST.
MASON ST.
POWELL ST.
STOCKTON ST.
KEARNY ST.
MONTGOMERY ST.
SANSOME ST.
BATTERY ST.
FRONT ST.
DAVIS ST.
DRUMM
JEFFERSON ST.
BEACH ST.
NORTH POINT ST.
BAY ST.
FRANCISCO ST.
CHESTNUT ST.
GREENWICH ST.
FILBERT ST.
GREEN ST.
VALLEJO ST.
CERVANTESBLVD.
ST.
STEINER ST.
MASONIC AV.
CENTRAL AV.
LYON ST.
BAKER ST.
BRODERICK ST.
SHRADER
GROVE ST.
HAYES ST.
COLE ST.
SPRUCE ST.
ST.
PARKER AV.
3RD
2ND AV.
AV.
PARNASSUS AV.
DUBOCE AV.
WALLER ST.
GROVE ST.
HAYES ST.
ELLIS ST.
EDDY ST.
TURK ST.
GOLDEN GATE AV.
McALLISTER ST.
FULTON ST.
.
KEZAR
DR.
DIVISION ST.
14TH ST.
15TH ST.
17TH ST.
MARIPOSAST.
.
17TH ST.
TERRY FRANCOIS
ST.
6TH ST.
15THST.
PACIFIC AV.
JACKSON ST.
WASHINGTON ST.
CLAY ST.
CALIFORNIA ST.
PINE ST.
BUSH ST.
SUTTER ST.
POST ST.
JACKSON ST.
WASHINGTON ST.
CLAY ST.
SACRAMENTO ST.
SCOTT ST.
PIERCE ST.
STEINER ST.
LYON ST.
BAKER ST.
BRODERICK ST.
FRANKLIN ST.
OCTAVIA ST.
WEBSTER
BUCHANAN ST.
LAGUNA ST.
ST.
MASONIC AV.
14TH ST.
GRANT AV.
GOUGH ST. GOUGH ST.
15TH ST.
ST.
LARKIN ST.
HYDE ST.
3RD ST.
MARIPOSA ST.
ASHBURY ST.
CLAYTON ST.
BUENA VISTAAV.
WEST
BUENA VISTA
AV. EAST
LYON ST.
BLVD.
ARGUELLO
.
CORNWALL ST.
LUPINEAV.
WOODST.
WOOD
EMERSON
ST.
ST.
COOK ST.
COLLINS ST.
BLAKE ST.
WILLARDN.
PARSONS
ST.
BEAUMONT AV.
FREDERICK ST.
WALLER ST.
PAGE ST.
ROOSEVELT WY.
OTISMcCOPPIN
SPRUCE ST.
CHERRY ST.
MAPLE ST.
LOCUST ST.
LAUREL ST.
WALNUT ST.
O'FARRELL ST.
EUCLID AV.
12TH ST.
BERRY ST.
RD.
MORTON ST.
MORAGA AV.
FUNSTON AV.
TAYLORRD.
MONTGOMERY ST.
ANZA ST.
GRAHAM ST.
PACIFIC AV.
PRESIDIOBLVD.
BARNARD
AV.
KEYES AV.
MESA ST.
SHERIDAN
AV.
DR.
LETTERMAN
LOWER
TERR
STATES ST.
ORD CT.
MUSEUM WY.
ASHBURY
TERR.
CLIFFORD TERR.
HILLWAY AV.
HILL
POINT
FARNSWORTH
LN.
DLAND AV.
GRATTAN ST.
CARL ST.
LAUSSAT ST.
GERMANIA ST.
HERMANN ST.
IVY ST.
LINDEN ST.
HICKORY ST.
LILY ST.
ROSE ST.
JULIAN
ALBION ST.
REATCHULA LN.
SHARON
BOWLINGGREENDR.
CONSERVATORY
CAPRA WY.
CASAWY.
RICO
PRADO
RETIRO
AVILA
MOULTON ST.
PIXLEY ST.
NORMANDIE
TERR.
MILEY ST.
OLIVE ST.
WILLOW ST.
BIRCHST.
WILLOW
SEYMOUR
ST.
WALLERST.
STEVENSON ST.
CALEDONIA
ST.
OSPER ST.
MINNA ST.
NATOMA ST.
RINGOLDST.
SHERIDANJUNIPER ST. KISSLING
MINNA ST.
NATOMA ST.
TEHAMA ST.
CLEMENTINA ST.
NATOMA ST.
LANGTON
RAUSCH
SUMNER
ST.
MOSSST.
RUSS ST.
HARRIET
COLUMBIA
SQUARE
SHERMAN ST.
TEHAMA ST.
CLEMENTINA ST.
SHIPLEY ST.
CLARA ST.
HAWTHORNE ST.
HOOPER ST.
IRWIN ST.
HUBBELL ST.
BERRY ST.
8THST.
MISSION
ROCK ST.
GARDEN ST.
ERKSON
CT.
FERN
AVILA
TOLEDO
WAY
CLEARY
ST.
FREELON ST.
BLUXOME ST.
STEVENSON ST.
JESSIE ST.
OWENS ST.
ALAMEDA ST.
HUGO ST.
PARAMOUNT
TERR.
ALPINE TERR.
LORAINE
CT.
ALMADEN
C T.
EDWARD
ST.
ROSSI AV.
TEMESCAL
TERR.
CHABOT
TERR.
KITTREDGE
TERR.
ROSELYN
TERR.
TAMALPAIS
TERR.
ANNAPOLIS
TERR.
EWING
TERR.
VEGA ST.
NIDO AV.
BARCELONA
ENCANTOAV.
FORTUNA AV.
GOLDEN
GATE AV.
LOYOLA
HEMWAY
ATALAYA
HEATHER
IRIS AV.
MANZANITA
LAUREL
BEULAHST.
FLINT ST.
HENRY ST.
BEAVER ST.
DOWNEY
BELVEDERE
E. CONSERVATORY DR.
W.
MIDDLE DR. E.
ALHAMBRA
MALLORCA
PALM AV.
JORDAN AV.
COMMONWEALTH AV.
SOUTH
CT.
ELM
AVERY
ST.
WILMOT ST.
LARCH
ST.
HENRY ADAMS
PERINE PL.
WALTER ST.
ST.
WY.
BAKER ST.
ST. JOSEPH'S AV.
LLOYD
ST.
PRESIDIOTERR.
MINNA ST.
MYRTLE ST.
CEDAR ST.
HEMLOCK ST.
15TH ST.
WY.
AUSTIN ST.
JEAN
WY.
LEVANT ST.
TAH
PIED
STARRKING
PETERYORKE
DELMAR ST.
RESERVOIR
ST.
BELCHER
ST.
BLANEY
MASON ST.
DEEMS RD.
AV.
HALLECK ST.
DEWITT RD.
THORNBURG RD.
RUGERAV.
EDIE RD.
GORGAS AV.
KENNEDY AV.
OREILLY AV.
SUMNER
AV.
SIBLEY
VISTA
CT.
SANCHES ST.
RODRIGUEZ ST.
PORTOLA ST.
MACARTHUR AV.
QUARRY RD.
MACRAEST.
SHAFTER RD.
BLVD.
SHERMANRD.
SIMONDS
LOOP
LOOP
SIBERT
TERR.
MACARTHURAV.
GIRARD
TORNEY AV.
LIGGETT AV.
CLARK ST.
BAY
INFANTRY
THOMAS
FERNANDEZ
ELPOLIN
LOOP
FISHER
LOOP
HARDIE AV.
ANZAV ISTA AV.
VISTA
LYON
ST.
MAYFAIR DR.
TERRA
McALLISTER
ANZAVISTA AV.
AV.
BEIDEMAN ST.
HOLLIS ST.
BUENA VISTA
TERR.
JAVA ST.
PARK
AV.
ZOE ST.
DORE ST.
PLUM ST.
HARRIET ST.
BOARDMAN PL.
GILBERT ST.
STANFORD ST.
ERIE
ST.
ALERT
NAL
SPARROW
ENTERPRISE ST.
HIDALGO
MARYST.
JESSIE
ELGIN PARK
PEARL
CLINTON PARK
BROSNAN ST.
WOODWARD
ST.
RAMONA
PINK
PARKHILL
BROMLEY
ORBEN
PL.
CHARLTON
CAMP
FALMOUTH
REDWOOD
JESSIE ST.
MAGNOLIA ST.
HARRIS
PL.
CARMELITA
ST.
POTOMAC
S T.
JALPHO
CT.
CRAM
PL.
REDWOOD ST.
HEMLOCK ST.
COTTAGE
ROW
LEONA
TERR.
LAPU LAPU
STILLMAN ST.
AHLERS
CT.
RAYCLIFF
DAGGETT
ST.
GRACE ST.
NORFOLKISIS ST.
BERNICE
ST.
LAFAYETTE
TRAINOR
ST.
CYRIL MAGNINST.
GAISER
RITCH ST.
BYINGTON
ST.
LOVE
ADAIR
MOE ST.
VULCAN
STAIRWAY
NDST.
ROSEMONT
PL.
HOFF ST.
RONDEL PL.
DEHON
HARLOW
LOMA
VISTA
BOYNTON
CT.
EL
BBEY
ST.
WEST
BROADWAY
WALLEN
S T.
Mission Creek Marina
Lily
Pond
101
101
101
80
EMBARCADERO STATION
MUNI / BART
CAL TRAIN STATION
4TH @ KING
( UNDERWAY)
10
365
2
565
65
165
4
6
11
5
40
23
30
50
25
16
310
210
19
36
55
61
51
30
47
45
345
350
545
17
20
106
32
123
325
55
50
25
40
N
bike lane
( dedicated bike lane on roadway edge)
bike path
( dedicated off- street - usually paved - bike path)
bike route
( bikes and cars share roadway - often narrow)
wide curb lane
( wider roadway)
garages with bike parking
lockers
bike station
( secure attended bicycle parking)
bike routes, garages, & lockers
Parking and Traffic Bicycle
1,100 bicycle racks
on sidewalks and in
garages. They also helped
garages install bicycle
a place to lock your
you want to go.
sfgov. org for a map
racks on the sidewalks. If
front of a business
patronize, please call
a bicycle rack. See
brochure for a map of
bicycle parking.
Traffic Services
bike racks
where you want to go
www. bicycle. sfgov. org
415- 585- BIKE
50
FROM A TO Z BY BIKE, is a safe cycling
guide for kids and adults, published by AMC
Media, PMB 729, 250 “ H” Street, Blaine,
WA 98230. To obtain free copies of this
booklet call 585- BIKE or email bicycle@
sfgov. org.
BICYCLING VIDEOS AVAILABLE FOR
LOAN
The MTA Bicycle Safety Program maintains
a video library. Titles range from children’s
videos to adult commute videos and address
issues from safety on the street and helmet
use to bicycling history. A limited number
of videos are also available in Spanish. If
you are interested in borrowing videos, call
585- BIKE or email bicycle@ sfgov. org for
more information.
FIND THE TWELVE HAZARDS
This single sheet lets children identify
common obstacles to safe bicycling. For
free copies with answers on the back, call
585- BIKE or email bicycle@ sfgov. org.
SAFE BICYCLING IN SAN FRANCISCO
is out of print, but this early safety guide is
still available for viewing at www. bicycle.
sfgov. org.
Brochures and Publications
Bicycle Information Hotline
Bicycle Safety Information
Bicycle Rack Installation
585- BIKE ( 2453)
www. bicycle. sfgov. org
San Francisco Bicycle Coalition
431- BIKE ( 2453)
Bike Buddy Commute Program
( Bicycle commute assistance)
www. sfbike. org
SF Bicycle Advisory Committee
585- BIKE ( 2453)
www. bicycle. sfgov. org
SF Police Department
EMERGENCY: 911
Non- emergency ( 24 hr): 553- 0123
DPT Parking Enforcement
553- 1200
Abandoned bikes
695- 2017
To Report Debris in Bike Lanes
28- CLEAN ( 282- 5326)
- also tree/ bush trimming
DPW Street Construction Center
554- SCCC ( 7222)
( trenches and plates)
Potholes: DPW Street Repair
695- 2100
potholes@ sfdpw. org
Bay Area Regional Bicycle
Information
511 or www. 511. org
- also traffic and Transit info
California Bicycle Coalition
( 916) 446- 7558
Caltrans Bicycle Program
( 916) 653- 2750
League of American Bicyclists
( 202) 822- 1333
www. bikeleague. org
National Bike Registry
www. nationalbikeregistry. com
Muni General Information
673- MUNI
MTA Reception Front Desk
701- 4500
Important Telephone Numbers
and Internet Links