All three offerings of Pedal The Plains are conducted on open roads with vehicular traffic present. These roads include both marked and unmarked hazards. Though we go to great lengths to make this event as safe as possible, you are only as safe as you ride. Always remember that your safety is in your own hands and ride by these rules:

Preparing and Training for the Tour

• Make sure your bicycle is in tip-top shape. We recommend having a technician inspect your bike before the Tour.
• When riding on streets, follow the rules of the road as you would when driving a car: Obey traffic laws, signs and signals.
• Beware of and yield to vehicle traffic.
• Use hand signals to indicate left or right turns, slowing or stopping.
• Ride as far to the right as possible.
• Be predictable. Ride in a straight line. Only ride two abreast when the shoulder is wide enough.
• Never assume motorists see you or that you have the right-of-way.
• Always wear a helmet.
• Brightly colored clothing helps to be easily noticed.
• When riding before dawn or after dusk, reflectors and headlights are suggested.
• Rearview mirrors are strongly recommended.
• Expect the unexpected; your first responsibility is to be safe.

During the Tour

• All participants must adhere an emergency identification sticker (provided by PTP) inside their helmet.
• Accidents often occur in pace lines. If you are inexperienced with drafting, do not draft.
• Move completely off the road and shoulder when stopped and resting.
• Warn fellow cyclists of road hazards.
• Only pass cyclists on their left. When passing, warn cyclists by saying, “On your left.”
• Cross railroad tracks at a right angle.
• Beware of rumble strips.
• No headphones while riding.
• Pedal The Plains support and safety services are provided on the designated and marked route ONLY.

If your family has an emergency message for you during Pedal The Plains, they can leave a message with the Pedal The Plains Emergency Message Center by calling 303-954-6705. Voice messages will be checked periodically from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. during the Tour (September 15-17). This service is for true emergencies only. All messages will be screened. Violators will not be eligible for future Pedal The Plains tours.