Trail Etiquette

How Not to Be a Jerk When You're Riding Your Bike

Be mindful of those around you.

By Hannah Wallace January 4, 2024 Published in the January/February 2024 issue of Sarasota Magazine

Use Your Bell (or Your Voice)

Whatever your ride, a bike bell notifies people in front of you that you intend to pass. “I’ll ding it at two distances—once far back and then when I get closer,” says Chris Slack of Pinnacle Wheel Works. If you don’t have a bell, you can shout to announce yourself. “But the bell’s nice,” Slack says. “Sometimes you yell and it startles people.”

Make Way for Others

Stay to the far right of the trail unless you’re passing someone. Be mindful of how much space you’re leaving if you’re in a group. Pull onto the grass if you need to stop to tie a shoelace or take a picture.

Don’t Let Your Dog’s Leash Stretch Across the Trail

If your dog prefers the grass on the left, no worries—just join them over there so others can pass safely.

Listen Up

Consider leaving your left ear free from headphones so you can hear other users approaching.

Mind Your Speed

Slow down when you pass people.

Acknowledge Announcements

 If you hear a bell or announcement from someone coming up behind you, a simple raised hand says, “Thanks, I hear you!”

Use the Crosswalk Button

The Legacy Trail’s roadway crossings are equipped with traffic lights triggered by a crosswalk button. By using those lights, you maintain a vital line of communication between trail users and drivers. You’re also giving nearby users a chance to cross without stopping traffic multiple times.

Be Mindful of Private Property 

The Legacy Trail is a public park, but it runs very close to people’s homes. Don’t cut through yards or tamper with people’s property or privacy. The same goes for anytime you're out on your bike.

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