Top Ten UCSB Bicycling Survival Tips

Yes, it is possible to survive as a cyclist at UCSB and get around safely. Here are some helpful tips:

1. Use your head and wear a helmet and you can reduce your risk of head injury by 85%. Subsidized helmet purchases can be had for just $9 at the Associated Students Bike Shop (near the old pool) 893-3610 or the UCSB Student Health 893-2116. $9 helmets are also available at any local Hospital Emergency Room i.e. Goleta Valley Hospital, Cottage Hospital, Saint Francis Hospital or the County Emergency Medical Services 300 N. San Antonio Rd., Bldg 1, Santa Barbara CA, 93110 (805) 681-4913
   See Map for locations of Associated Students Bike Shop and Student Health
2. Use hand signals before turning.
3. Pass with caution on the left and alert the people around you (say "On your left" as you are about to pass)
4. Ride single-file.
5. Honor yield and stop signs.
6. Use caution when approaching pedestrian crossings.
7. Walk bikes on sidewalks and in other pedestrian areas. (Violation is a $77 fine-YEOW!)
8. Lock your bike in a bike rack. During peak times, an available parking space may be a minute or two away from primary bicycle racks. Take the time to find an appropriate space and you'll save yourself the stress and expense of having your bike impounded. (Improperly locked bikes are subject to impound fees of up to $30.)
9. Ride at a safe and reasonable speed. Consider the flow of bicycle traffic and other bike path conditions.
10. Avoid the congestion of peak travel times (during change of classes) whenever possible. You'll find the bike paths enjoyably empty during class time!