A recent review of 10 bike to bike incidents, submitted by our members, showed some common causes of this type of accident.

One of the major reasons is half wheeling or overlapping.  Avoid putting your front wheel next to the rear wheel of the bike in front of you.  Any sudden movement by the leading bike will cause you to touch their rear wheel and down you go. Always ride fully behind the bike in front of you. 

Passing can be a cause of a B2B accident. When passing another bike, announce “on your left or “on your right.  Passing on the right is NOT RECCOMENDED.  Always keep a safe distance between you and the rider on your left or right. 

Another chief cause of a B2B accicent is following too closely.  Unless you are drafting, it is a good idea to leave a bike length between you and the rider in front of you.  This will give you time to react to any unforeseen action by that rider. 

When trying to avoid and accident keep space and speed in mind. Avoid bunching up on turns or climbing hills as your ability to maneuver is reduced. Riding at a fast pace is OK but it does reduce your response time.

Calling out turns, stops, road hazards and passing, is a must while riding in a close group.  Practice calling out “slowing” or “stopping” before you even touch the brakes.  The following rider cannot always see what you see, or predict your actions.  Be mindful of the riders behind you.  No one wants to be responsible for a crash or injury.

Being aware of safety issues will not diminish your enjoyment of a ride.  Every time you see a wet bridge surface, a car passing dangerously, or excessive gravel on the road, think of how you might respond.  Safety awareness will become second nature to you and help you finish that enjoyable ride that you started.