CYCLING ROAD ETIQUETTE: RIDING SINGLE FILE VS. SIDE BY SIDE. WHAT YOU CAN DO AND WHAT YOU SHOULD DO
First, what you can do
The California Vehicle Code makes it clear that cyclists can:
There is no language in California law that prevents bicyclists from riding two or more abreast (side by side). If you are moving at the speed of traffic, riding two abreast is legal.
If you are not moving at the speed of traffic, it is still safe for cyclists to ride two abreast, if there is more than one lane going in the same direction, so motorists can pass on the left. However, if your riding side by side impedes traffic (see above), then you should move over to the right.
Second, what you should do
California law doesn’t say that riding two abreast is prohibited, but it doesn’t say it’s always the right thing to do either. Being aware of and constantly evaluating the circumstances around you are key to judging if riding side by side is safe. In the majority of circumstances it's not, because:
It's also important for the group that you are mindful of vehicles coming up from behind, so as to help keep your fellow riders safe. Being vigilant and letting others in the group know of cars behind by saying "car back” or "car up" will help the group anticipate and realign riders single file at to the right.
Finally, use common sense
When it comes down to it, until the day comes that there are separate bike lanes everywhere, cyclists and motorists are going to have to deal with being in proximity of each other. So keeping a cool head, and being courteous to everyone concerned (even when we're hot under the jersey over the circumstances) is the best way to get everyone to respect each other, follow the rules and enjoy a great ride every time you jump on your bike.
And remember... the Tam Velo Club Ride COVID Guidelines:
The California Vehicle Code makes it clear that cyclists can:
- Ride on any public road that is open to motorists (except freeways);
- Ride in the middle of a lane if moving as fast as the traffic or when necessary when passing or making a left turn;
- Stay as close to the right-hand side of the road as practicable if you are impeding traffic (impeding traffic means riding on a road where passing is unsafe for 5 or more vehicles behind you);
- Ride with a minimum of 3' distance when a vehicle passes you; and
- Ride two (or more) abreast (side by side) if you are moving at the speed of traffic
There is no language in California law that prevents bicyclists from riding two or more abreast (side by side). If you are moving at the speed of traffic, riding two abreast is legal.
If you are not moving at the speed of traffic, it is still safe for cyclists to ride two abreast, if there is more than one lane going in the same direction, so motorists can pass on the left. However, if your riding side by side impedes traffic (see above), then you should move over to the right.
Second, what you should do
California law doesn’t say that riding two abreast is prohibited, but it doesn’t say it’s always the right thing to do either. Being aware of and constantly evaluating the circumstances around you are key to judging if riding side by side is safe. In the majority of circumstances it's not, because:
- Motorists can get mad that you are blocking their travel, and since most of them already don't think you should be there anyway, you could bring out their worst behavior which could lead to an injury or a fatality
- Whether you like it or not, you are an ambassador to the sport (and to Tam Velo Club), so we have to use courtesy and hyper-awareness to overcome any bias against cyclists
- Most law enforcement interpret the California Vehicle Code as saying you must stay to the right and see riding side by side as something in violation of the law.
It's also important for the group that you are mindful of vehicles coming up from behind, so as to help keep your fellow riders safe. Being vigilant and letting others in the group know of cars behind by saying "car back” or "car up" will help the group anticipate and realign riders single file at to the right.
Finally, use common sense
When it comes down to it, until the day comes that there are separate bike lanes everywhere, cyclists and motorists are going to have to deal with being in proximity of each other. So keeping a cool head, and being courteous to everyone concerned (even when we're hot under the jersey over the circumstances) is the best way to get everyone to respect each other, follow the rules and enjoy a great ride every time you jump on your bike.
And remember... the Tam Velo Club Ride COVID Guidelines:
- Riders must maintain a safe distance from each other at all times - minimum of six feet or use the two second rule to determine safe distances.
- Conditions such as headwinds or downhills may necessitate wider distances. Use good judgment and follow ride leader directives.
- All riders must have a face covering (eg. mask, bandana, neck gaiter/buff or other without vents) to be worn at the start of each ride and when you encounter a situation in which you are not able to maintain six feet of distance from anyone outside your household (eg. during regroups, red lights, passing other cyclists).
- Close drafting and close pace lines are currently not encouraged.
- No spitting or blowing noses into the air during rides.
- Availability of water and restrooms may be limited so plan your intake and distances accordingly.
- Each rider is expected to pack their own sanitizer, wipes, tissues and any other products required for his/her safety and comfort.
- If you are feeling ill (or have any symptoms, including fever and a cough), please stay home and do not come out for a TVC ride.