Bicycle Rules of the Road

Summary of Colorado State Bicycle Law. As a bicyclist you must ride in the right lane except:

--When overtaking another bicycle or other vehicle.

--When preparing for a left turn.

--When necessary to avoid hazardous conditions.

Ride as close to the right side of the right lane as is practicable when being overtaken by another vehicle.

Ride on the paved shoulder whenever a paved shoulder suitable for bicycle riding is present.

Ride single file on the roadway if motor vehicle traffic is approaching within 300 feet from the rear or if sight distance is limited within 300 feet in front of or behind you.

Ride within a single lane if you are riding two abreast.

Keep at least one hand on the handlebars at all times.

Obey all traffic signs and signals.

Signal your intention to turn, slow, or stop.

Ride to the right, with the flow of traffic.

Riding on the left is illegal and unsafe.

You can ride two abreast on paths or parts of the roadway (bicycle lanes) set aside for the exclusive use of bicycles. You may ride more than two abreast on the shoulder if all cyclists are completely on the shoulder.

When bicycling during poor visibility, your bicycle must be equipped with reflectors and a white front headlight. Colorado Springs has its own bicycle ordinance. For more information on traffic laws and safety procedures, obtain a copy of Bicycling in Colorado from the Trails Coalition.