Experts provide best bike safety practices

Katie Alaimo/News Tribune file photo
Red Wheel Bike Shop owner Nick Smith, left, shows a bike to Danny Davis.
Katie Alaimo/News Tribune file photo Red Wheel Bike Shop owner Nick Smith, left, shows a bike to Danny Davis.
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For biking enthusiasts, sunny summer days provide the perfect time to hit the trails around Jefferson City.

Lucky for Jefferson City riders, there are several good options where they can partake in their favorite outdoor activity. Nick Smith, owner of Red Wheel Bike Shop on West Main Street, recommends the trails at Binder Lake State Park, the Frog Hollow Nature Trail and, of course, the Katy Trail.

Binder Lake offers about 14 miles of pleasant scenery, while Frog Hollow has about 3 miles for bikers to enjoy. The Katy Trail covers 237 miles from Clinton County near Kansas City all the way to St. Charles County in the western edges of the St. Louis Metropolitan area.

"And the Katy Trail is good for mountain biking," he said.

Smith also mentioned the Greenway along Edgewood Drive is a good multi-use trail for riders. The Greenway is a trail system that provides about 15 miles of paved trails throughout Jefferson City, connecting parks, neighborhoods, schools and businesses.

Now, before anyone hops on a bike, Smith said cyclists should bring several important items with them.

"First and foremost, bring a helmet - that's important," Smith said. "It's a good idea to bring a spare tube or pump. You should bring a cable and a bike lock. Also, on these hot days, it's a good idea to bring water."

Smith also recommends riders should wear sunglasses or other eye coverings for protection.

"Some people don't like the eye protection," Smith said, but it is essential for cyclists.

"You could also bring gloves and elbow pads," Smith added.

Fellow local bike shop owner Donald Meyer of J & D Bicyle Shop also recommended bringing a water bottle and cage holder. His son Steven Meyer, who runs the shop with his father, offered a helpful hint for riders.

"Squeeze the tires before you ride," Steven said. "You should have enough air pressure on your bicycle."

Steven also emphatically encouraged riders to wear helmets before they hit the trails.

"The consequences are pretty severe for the amount of money on a helmet," he said. "Also, stay to the right on the roads."

Biking can be an enjoyable physical activity, which can create bonds between families who enjoy a ride on the trails and also serve as a great means of exercise.

Smith's final tips:

"Be aware of other riders. I also stress not to ride when it's muddy out. It's not good for the trails."