Signals are used to indicate to others what we intend to do (HTA 142). There are 3 signals to know:
Left turn Extend left arm and hand straight outward
Right turn Extend right arm and hand straight outward
Stop/Slow Down extend left arm out, bend theelbow at 90 degrees, forearm pointed down with hand extended
Body Language
Body language can offer guidance and context regarding our intended actions. Being “assertive” means being decisive and firm, and avoiding ambiguity. Stopping with feet firmly planted on the ground is an example of clearly communicating “I have stopped here”. Placing a foot on a pedal suggests an indication that you intend to start moving again.
Signalling Sequence
Shoulder check, in direction you want to move to, to see that way is clear
Signal in the same direction
Final shoulder check to ensure way is still clear before maneuvering
Check before slowing down or stopping also.
Rule of thumb: Check of the shoulder of the arm you’ll be signalling with.
Disclaimer: “Bicycle As Transport” videos are for demonstration purposes to provide general information on lawfully using a bicycle. They are not CAN-BIKE instruction videos, are not comprehensive, nor provides specific advice or any guarantees. You must determine for yourself what your experience, training and competency level is with using a bicycle. The Bikeport by Kevin Montgomery disclaims any liability in connection with the use of this information.
This episode of Bicycles As Transport reviews equipment that is required on all bicycles in Ontario under the Highway Traffic Act. (HTA 62, HTA 75)
Front of Bike
These items are required on the front of the bike:
White headlight
White reflective strips on front forks
Bell, horn, or gong on handlebars
Rear of Bike
These items are required on the rear of the bike:
Red reflector OR red light
Red reflective strips on rear stays (25cm long, 2.5cm wide)
Many bike shops sell their bicycles under a recreational lens. As such, they don’t all sell their bicycles ready for transport use with all the necessary equipment required by law. However, you can find them through The Bikeport.
Disclaimer: “Bicycle As Transport” videos are for demonstration purposes to provide general information on lawfully using a bicycle. They are not CAN-BIKE instruction videos, are not comprehensive, nor provides specific advice or any guarantees. You must determine for yourself what your experience, training and competency level is with using a bicycle. The Bikeport by Kevin Montgomery disclaims any liability in connection with the use of this information.
The Bicycles As Transport YouTube playlist will contain a series of videos demonstrating how to use a bicycle as a transport tool. Each episode will be in 2 parts. The first in standard video format, describing what the episode is about. The second, filmed in 360 degrees, will show what is being described.
I welcome any comments you have. If I think there’s a topic to be addressed, I’ll consider creating an episode on it.
Disclaimer: “Bicycle As Transport” videos are for demonstration purposes to provide general information on lawfully using a bicycle. They are not CAN-BIKE instruction videos, are not comprehensive, nor provides specific advice or any guarantees. You must determine for yourself what your experience, training and competency level is with using a bicycle. The Bikeport by Kevin Montgomery disclaims any liability in connection with the use of this information.
