Bike Safety

Whether you ride for fun, fitness, or getting around, use these tips to check your bike, ride safely, share the road, and understand the basics of e-bikes and scooters.

Before You Bike

Check your bike before every ride. Use the ABC check: Air, Brakes, Bar and Bell, and Chain and Crank. 

  • Air: Check that your tires are inflated and free of cracks, wear, or damage.

  • Brakes, bar, and bell: Test your brakes, check the brake pads, adjust the handlebars for comfort, and make sure your bell works.

  • Chain and crank: Make sure the chain is secure and lubricated, and test that the gears shift smoothly.

  • Choose a bike that fits your size and the type of roads or trails you ride on.

  • Wear a properly fitted helmet every time you ride.

Ride Safely

  • Plan your route and avoid high-risk areas when possible.

  • Stay alert and avoid distractions, including headphones.

  • Keep both hands on the handlebars except when making hand signals.

  • Ride single file and never carry more people than your bike is designed for.

  • Follow the rules of the road. A bicycle is considered a vehicle when you are riding it.

  • Ride on the right and in the same direction as traffic.

  • Walk your bike in crosswalks and overpasses when possible.

  • If you walk beside your bike, you are considered a pedestrian.

  • Teach children the rules of the road before they ride in traffic. CAA has designed a road test with safe cycling tips and advice for parents and their kids.

  • You can use your CAA membership if you get stranded with a flat tire or a broken chain on your bicycle. CAA Roadside Assistance will transport you and your bike to your required destination through our Bike Assist service.

  • Download the CAA Family Safety Booklet containing fun activities and information about pedestrian, bike, and school zone safety, as well as the CAA School Safety Patrol® Program. Complimentary copies of the booklet are available at all CAA Stores.

  • CAA Saskatchewan wants to help ensure the safety of all road users, including cyclists, motorists, and pedestrians. 

  • Watch the Rules of the Road and Sharing the Road Safety Tips.

Sharing the Road

  • Leave at least one metre of space between you and cyclists.

  • Use turn signals and always obey all traffic signs and signals.

  • Check mirrors, shoulder check, and watch blind spots before turning, changing lanes, or merging.

  • When parked on the street, don’t open your door into traffic. Instead, do the Dutch Reach and check your blind spot first.

Electric Bikes & Scooters

What is an e-bike?

An e-bike is an electric pedal bike, a bicycle equipped with an electric motor powered by a rechargeable battery. The basic difference between an e-bike and an electric scooter or moped is that an e-bike requires you to pedal.

What types of e-bikes are there?

There are two categories of e-bikes. Those with a mid-drive motor (between the pedals) and those with a hub motor (on the rear wheel axle).

  • Bikes with mid-drive motors look like classic bicycles and give you a little boost when you need it. They provide progressive assistance based on how hard you pedal. This is an ideal bike for those who want to pedal, but with a little help. They can be easier to control.
  • Hub motor e-bikes provide even more assistance. You can choose your speed and power-assisted level. They also have a throttle, so you can cruise along without pedalling at all. These bikes are great for people who enjoy going for a spin but don’t want to strain their knees. Because they operate more like a small motorbike, they can be harder to control for beginners.

Here are some things to consider when looking for an e-bike, as well as the top three e-bike models in Canada. Learn more

Learn about the Anatomy of an e-Bike in CAA Saskatchewan Magazine (page 16).

CAA's study on electric bikes and scooters reveals some gaps in safety regulations, data collection, and public awareness. Learn more