Pandemic Cycling

​The Guardian reported that bicycle usage has increased dramatically in the United States during the COVID-19 pandemic. Riding bicycles has built-in social distancing, lets you see the world at a slower pace so you don’t miss the small things, helps prevent depression, decreases stress, helps with memory and reasoning, and helps improves brain health. Consumer Reports recommends the following steps for safe pandemic cycling:

• Health - If you are in good health and are not currently ill, you are a prime candidate for cycling outdoors. Older family members who may be immunocompromised should carefully weigh the risks against the benefits of bicycling.
• Six-Feet - Avoid crowded trails and paths and maintain six feet from others at all times – especially take care when passing other cyclists.
• Personal Hygiene – avoid touching your face while riding, use hand sanitizer and wash your hands for at least twenty seconds after riding. 
• Traffic – there is less automobile traffic on the road right now, so biking can feel safer than usual. Even without many cars to worry about, it is important to obey the regular rules of the road: avoid erratic movements, use hand signals, dress in light/bright colors, and use bike lights/flashers whenever possible. 
• Clothing – be sure to clean your clothes, helmets, sunglasses, and other wearables after riding.

We hope to see you on the road on our next group ride;we welcome riders of all experience levels.