Colorado Cycling Rules

Bicycling on Colorado Roads

Bicyclists have all the rights and duties applicable to the driver of any other vehicle and can be penalized for violating traffic laws.  Obey traffic laws, signs and signals   Ride in the right lane, except when passing another vehicle, preparing for a left turn or avoiding hazards   Ride on paved shoulders and bike lanes when present and free of hazards

• Ride on the right, never ride against traffic
   
• Ride no more than two abreast, returning to single-file if riding two abreast would impede the flow of traffic

• On curving canyon roads without bike lanes or shoulders, play it safe and ride single file

• Use hand signals to indicate right or left turns, slowing or stopping

• Use a headlight, taillight and reflectors at night

• Act like a vehicle on the roads -- bicycles have the same rights and responsibilities 

• Never assume motorists see you or that you have the right-of-way
   
• Wear appropriate gear to protect yourself: helmet, glasses and gloves

• Expect the unexpected; your first responsibility is to be safe

Click here to read the current Colorado Bicycling Statutes

Watch the following public service announcement produced by 9News and Bicycle Colorado for more information:

Multi-Use Trails

While Colorado has no statewide statues regulating multi-use trails, here is a list of suggested practices. Please be sure to obey any local regulations when using a multi-use trail. Use common sense and courtesy on the trail    Always ride, walk and skate on the right side of the trail

• Obey traffic control signs and markings on trail
   
• Pass on the left, when the trail is clear of traffic
   
• Give audible warning before overtaking other trail users
  - Ring your bike bell
  - Loudly and clearly call out "Passing"
   
• Listen up! Headphones prevent you from hearing warnings
   
• Use hand signals to indicate turns and stops
   
• Do not stop on the trail in the way of other users
   
• Ride single file so that other user may pass safely
   
• Look for traffic before entering trail
   
• Watch for the unexpected, especially with kids or dogs
   
• Slow down when the trail is crowded and travel at speeds that are safe and appropriate to trail conditions

IMBA's Rules of the Trail

The way we ride today shapes mountain bike trail access tomorrow. Do your part to preserve and enhance our sport's access and image by observing the following rules of the trail, formulated by IMBA, the International Mountain Bicycling Association. These rules are recognized around the world as the standard code of conduct for mountain bikers. IMBA's mission is to promote mountain bicycling that is environmentally sound and socially responsible.

1. Ride On Open Trails Only.
Respect trail and road closures (ask if uncertain); avoid trespassing on private land; obtain permits or other authorization as may be required. Federal and state Wilderness areas are closed to cycling. The way you ride will influence trail management decisions and policies.

2. Leave No Trace.
Be sensitive to the dirt beneath you. Recognize different types of soils and trail construction; practice low-impact cycling. Wet and muddy trails are more vulnerable to damage. When the trailbed is soft, consider other riding options. This also means staying on existing trails and not creating new ones. Don't cut switchbacks. Be sure to pack out at least as much as you pack in.

3. Control Your Bicycle!
Inattention for even a second can cause problems. Obey all bicycle speed regulations and recommendations.

4. Always Yield Trail.
Let your fellow trail users know you're coming. A friendly greeting or bell is considerate and works well; don't startle others. Show your respect when passing by slowing to a walking pace or even stopping. Anticipate other trail users around corners or in blind spots. Yielding means slow down, establish communication, be prepared to stop if necessary and pass safely.

5. Never Scare Animals.
All animals are startled by an unannounced approach, a sudden movement or a loud noise. This can be dangerous for you, others and the animals. Give animals extra room and time to adjust to you. When passing horses use special care and follow directions from the horseback riders (ask if uncertain). Running cattle and disturbing wildlife is a serious offense. Leave gates as you found them or as marked.

6. Plan Ahead.
Know your equipment, your ability and the area in which you are riding -- and prepare accordingly. Be self-sufficient at all times, keep your equipment in good repair and carry necessary supplies for changes in weather or other conditions. A well-executed trip is a satisfaction to you and not a burden to others. Always wear a helmet and appropriate safety gear.

Keep trails open by setting a good example of environmentally sound and socially responsible off-road cycling.