This map is current as of May 2013. Bicycle infrastructure and improvements in biking safety continue to evolve in Atlanta and we look forward to seeing many positive changes in the future! To view this map online, learn more about biking in Atlanta, or give us feedback, visit www.atlantabike.org
BICYCLING RELATED INCENTIVES Georgia Commute Options in the form of cash and prizes are available to alternative transportation commuters who log their commutes online. Register at www.gacommuteoptions.com ABC Membership Discounts: As a member of the Atlanta Bicycle Coalition, you can receive discounts at local bike shops, restaurants and other places around town. Join at www.bit.ly/abcjoin.
VOLUNTEER
We have opportunities for everyone! You can help with our bicycle valet, repair bikes through the Starter Bikes program, promote and plan rides, or join a committee.
DONATE
Help us advocate for bicyclists’ rights, and provide classes, progrmas, and safety gear for cyclists.
RIDE
Come on one of our monthly social rides to help create excitement and visibility for bicycling in our city. Check our website for our current ride listings.
ADVOCATE
Sign up for our newsletter to receive advocacy alerts, events information, and program information. For more information on how to register, check out our website at www.atlantabike.org.
GEORGIA RULES FOR BICYCLING
SAFETY TIPS FOR BICYCLISTS
BICYCLE CLASSES
Bicycles are vehicles under Georgia law, with the same right to travel on the road as other vehicles (with the exception of limited-access highways).
Ride on the road: Your risk of being hit by a car is actually higher on the sidewalk than in the road. Bicyclists on the sidewalk are less visible to drivers, especially at intersections and driveways.
Confident City Cycling: This nationally certified course includes crash-avoidance drills and a practice ride in real traffic conditions in addition to intersection safety, interacting with pedestrians, trail etiquette, fixing a flat, on-bike skills, and laws affecting cyclists.
Ride predictably: Ride in a straight line 18-36 inches from thecurb in order to make yourself more visible to drivers. This will also give you space to maneuver and avoid hazards.
STARTER BIKES
When riding in groups, ride no more than two abreast, and as a courtesy, ride single file when faster traffic needs the space to pass you. Ride on the right side: Georgia law states that bicyclists should ride as near to the right side of the street as “practicable.” Light up the night: Every bicycle, while being used in the dark in Georgia, must be equipped with a white front light and rear red reflector, each visible from 300 feet. Sidewalks are for walking: It is illegal for adults (over 12 years of age) to ride bicycles on the sidewalk in the state of Georgia. Wear a helmet: Bicycle helmets are required for everyone under age 16 and encouraged for everyone else. Take the lane: If the bike lane is too narrow or next to on-street parking, you may want to take the lane (ride in the middle of the traffic lane) at your discretion. For more information: See Georgia Code sections 36-60-5, 40-1-1, and 40-6-290 through 40-6-299 for details on these and all other laws regarding bicycling in Georgia at www.legis.state.ga.us
Route Selection: Scout your route to find streets that work for you. Remember, your driving route might not be the best way to get there by bike. Be visible: Wear brighly colored or reflective clothing. From dusk till dawn and in low light conditions use a strong white headlight and rear red light and/or reflector. Ride with traffic (in the same direction): Motorists and other bicyclists are not expecting bicyclists coming toward them from the opposite direction. Protect yourself from a crash by riding in the same direction as the flow of traffic.
INTERACTING WITH DRIVERS
Expect the unexpected: Never assume a motorist sees you. Anticipate parked vehicles pulling into traffic, vehicle doors opening in front of you, and debris or other hazards on the road. Respect right of way rules.
If you encounter an irate motorist, be polite, regardless of her/his behavior. To report an aggressive or harassing driver, or if you are involved in a car-bike crash, call 911. Please report all crashes, as this data contributes to bike improvements in Atlanta. Be ready with a vehicle and location description, a license plate number and state, and an account of what happened.
Trail Etiquette: When riding on popular trails remember to pass on the left and be courteous to those traveling at a slower speed. With the use of a bell and/or loudly stating “on your left,” try to alert a slower traveler that you are about to pass them, then be sure to slow down and pass.
Volunteers refurbish abandoned and donated bikes into low-cost, entry level bicycles for students and community members in need of inexpensive but reliable transportation. The program is also available for people who would like to try a bike, but don’t want to make a large up-front investment until they have more experience.
SOPO BICYCLE CO-OP A non-profit, community-based bicycle repair shop (www.sopobikes.org) that makes transportation affordable, accessible, and sustainable by providing free bicycle maintenance and education services. General Shop Hours: Tues, Wed, & Thurs: 7pm - 10pm Sat: 2pm - 6pm Visit atlantabike.org or call (404) 881-1112 for the class schedule and be sure to look for ABC’s Free Neighborhood Bike Classes.