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BIKE SENSE—THE WISCONSIN BICYCLE OPERATOR’S MANUAL

Clothing

Wear, and carry, layers of clothing, including a lightweight, wind-
proof outer layer. By adding or subtracting layers, you can keep your
body temperature constant, and adjust to changes in the weather. As
a general rule, start your ride fairly cool. You will warm up quickly
once you get going. If you dress so that you are warm before you even
start riding, you will get too hot.
Specialized clothing, such as padded bicycling shorts and gloves, can
increase your comfort level on longer rides, but are not absolutely
necessary.
For winter riding, a waterproof outer layer will keep you dry, and
therefore warm. Remember that you will warm up as you ride, so
don’t overdress. Layers that can be easily removed will allow you to
adjust to changing conditions. If you live in Wisconsin, you have the
clothes to ride in winter!
B = Brakes. Squeeze your brake levers hard to be sure the brakes are
working and the levers don’t reach all the way to the handlebars.
C = Chain. Don’t ride with a dry chain. Lube your chain on a regular
basis to reduce wear and rust and make pedaling easier.
Quick = Quick releases. Take a look to be certain the quick releases
on your wheels and brakes are closed and tight.

Helmets

Studies have shown that in the event of a crash, a helmet will greatly
reduce your chances of a serious brain injury. Your helmet should
have CPSC standards approval clearly designated on it. Hockey or
other types of sports helmets are not appropriate for bicycling since
they are designed and tested for other types of impacts.
plastic casing
air vents
high-impact
protective foam
wrongright
To be effective, the bicycle helmet
must fit correctly and be worn proper-
ly.When in doubt, check with a bike
shop for the proper adjustment of your
approved bicycling helmet.
Studies show that wearing a properly fitted helmet will greatlyreduce the chances of sustaining a head injury in the event of a crash
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