Being prepared protects you from unpleasant surprises. You should be physically prepared, mentally prepared, and mechanically prepared. The farther you ride, the more important this becomes.

•  Know where you are going: have a map or check a map

•  Have appropriate clothing and footwear for the weather

•  Have lights and batteries if there is any chance of darkness

•  Make sure your bike is in good shape

  •  Brakes

  •  Tires

  •  ABC Quick Check at start of each ride

•  Carry a spare tube, pump and tools if you are going far

•  For long rides, carry food and water or money to buy some

•  Carry ID and insurance information

•  Be extra careful if you are tired, sick, mad, hopelessly in love, or otherwise distracted