Napa County Bike Map

Bicycles

Bicycle Improvements

With so much pristine countryside to see, it’s no wonder so many bicyclists take advantage of Napa County’s trails and vistas. The NCTPA manages improvements for area bike trails and provides free brochures on trails and safe riding practices. See below for some tips on safe bicycling in traffic.

Be Predictable – Ride so drivers can see you and predict your movements. Remember that the rules in the drivers manual apply to bicyclists also.

Be Alert – Ride defensively and expect the unexpected. remember, bicyclists are more vulnerable.

Be Equipped – Always wear a helmet. It's the law for 18 year-olds and younger. (CVC 21212) Use protective gear and wear visible clothing.

	Obey Traffic Signs, Signals, and Laws – Bicyclists must follow the same laws as motorists. Stop at red lights and stop signs just as you would in a car.
	Do Not Pass on the Right – Wherever you ride, be cautious -- even when riding in a bike lane. When approaching an intersection or driveway, be especially cautious and do not overtake a vehicle on its right; it might turn right in front of you.
	Ride in the Middle of Narrow Lanes – When the lane is too narrow for a car to pass you safely, you may ride in the middle of the lane. You must move over to the right hand edge when it is safe to ride there.
	Use Hand Signals – Hand signals tell others what you intend to do. Signal as a smatter of courtesy and of self-protection.
	Follow Lane Markings – Do not go straight in a lane marked right-turn-only.
	Never Ride Against Traffic – Bicyclists maust ride with traffic. Motorists are not looking for bicyclists riding on the swrong side of the road.
	Riding on Sidewalks May Be Prohibited – Pedestrians have the right-of-way. Give them an audible warning before you pass. Watch for vehicles at driveways and intersections.
	You May Leave a Bike Lane – When overtaking a bicycle, making a left turn, avoiding a road hazard/obstruction, or you are afraid a motorist might turn across your path, you may temporarily merge WITH CAUTION into the adjacent automobile lane for safety or better visibility.
	Scan the Road Around You – Look ahead and anticipate what other traffic is likely to do. Eatch for cars, people, pebbles, grates, etc. Learn to look back over your shoulder without losing your balance or swerving.
	Ride With Both Hands Ready to Brake – You may need to stop suddenly at unexpected times. In rain, allow three times the normal braking distance.
	Be Visible at Night – The law requires a strong headlight (visible from at least 300 feet ahead) and a rear reflector or tailight (visible 500 feet from behind) at night or when visibility is poor. Wear light-colored clothes with reflective tape for extra protection (CVC 2120 ld).
	Ride in a Straight Line – Ride in a straight line and far enough from parked cars so you can avoid suddenly opened doors. Riding in a straight line allows others to anticipate what you are likely to do.
	Choose the Best Way to Turn Left – There are two ways to make a left turn: 1) Like an auto, signal, move into the left lane, and turn left. do not turn left from the right lane. 2) Like a pedestrian, use the crosswalks and walk your bike across the sidewalk.