A path is a shared space
An off-road bike path away from cars can feel like a relief, and often it is. The trade-off is that the path is usually shared. Walkers, runners, families with prams, children on scooters, people with headphones and dogs on or off leads all use the same strip as you. Cyclists who are quickest and heaviest carry most of the responsibility for avoiding trouble.
Local rules differ. Some paths are designated for bikes, some are shared with pedestrians, and some have separate sides. Signs, markings and local laws are worth reading and following.
Choose a speed that fits the space
There is rarely a single correct speed for a shared path. The right speed depends on how crowded it is, how far you can see and how well you can stop. A useful test is whether you could stop comfortably within the distance you can see to be clear. On a bend with a hedge, a bridge or an underpass, you cannot see far, so ride slower. When the path is empty and straight, you can go a little faster, but be ready to slow down whenever someone appears.
Faster riders sometimes treat a path as a training track. If you want to ride hard, a quieter route or a road may suit you better, since high-speed riding and families on foot do not mix well.
Keep to one side and be predictable
Where there is no marked divider, riding on the side your country’s traffic rule suggests is a common approach, leaving the other side for oncoming traffic and passing. Keep a steady line, avoid sudden swerves, and avoid riding two abreast where it would block the path. If you stop, move off the path so you are not in the way. Looking over your shoulder before you pull out helps, and you can practise it somewhere quiet if it makes you wobble.
Use your bell kindly
A bell is a courtesy, not a weapon. A short, friendly ring from a distance tells someone you are there without startling them. A loud ring right behind a person’s ear can make them jump, and jumping people sometimes step the wrong way. Many riders prefer to combine a gentle ring with a calm “on your right” or “passing on your left”, depending on the side. Wording is flexible, so the main idea is to be clear, friendly and early. See bike bell use for more on this habit, and remember that not everyone can hear a bell, including people wearing headphones or with hearing loss.
Passing courteously
Passing is where most friction on a shared path happens. A few simple habits can help:
- Slow down before you pass, rather than after you are already beside the person.
- Signal your approach early with your bell or voice.
- Wait until the way is clear and there is enough room. Do not squeeze between a walker and an oncoming rider.
- Give a wide berth, particularly to children, older people and anyone who seems unsteady.
- Say thanks as you go by. A small gesture tends to make paths friendlier.
Passing courteously and good shared path etiquette in general come down to patience and clear signals.
Dogs, children and the unexpected
Dogs on extending leads can be a particular hazard because the lead may stretch across the path, and dogs sometimes dart without warning. Slow right down when you approach a dog, give the owner time to bring it close, and pass wide and slowly. Wait for the owner’s lead to be shortened if it is clear that the dog has noticed you. If a dog seems distressed or the owner cannot control it, stopping may be the kindest choice.
Children can change direction suddenly. Allow more room than you think you need, and slow down even if a parent is nearby. Watch for wildlife, loose gravel, leaves, wet boards and tree roots too.
Junctions with roads and other paths
Where a path meets a road or crosses another path, the risk goes up. Slow down, look both ways and do not assume that a driver will stop just because you have a marked crossing. If the law and signs require you to give way, do so. If a crossing is signalled for pedestrians, a dismount might be required in your area, so check the local rules.
Weather and light
Paths can become slippery after rain, covered in leaves in autumn, or icy in winter. Take extra care, allow longer to brake, and consider whether the surface is safe at all. Use lights when it is dark, or when visibility is low, since many paths are unlit and people may not hear you coming.
A relaxed mindset
Most path users are just trying to enjoy their time outside, as you are. A calm, patient attitude, a slower speed than you think you need and a friendly word go a long way. If you feel yourself becoming impatient behind a slow group, remember that you can usually wait a few seconds for a safe gap. If you need more skills practice, a quiet car park is a good place to work on balance and braking before you head out.