Chapter 4 Bike Etiquette And The Rules Of The Trail - MARIN Owner's Manual

RULES OF THE MOUNTAIN TRAIL:
In addition to the National Off-Road Bicycle Associations Code pre-
sented in Chapter 4, the following safety and etiquette rules are espe-
cially important to mountain cyclists.
When riding downhill, especially over bumpy terrain, keep your
speed under control using the rear brakes first, and then the front
brakes to slow down. Only apply front brakes while going straight; do
not apply front brakes while turning. You may sometimes need to sit
well back on the seat and distribute your weight for maximum steer-
ing control. While descending, it's a good idea to be in a slightly stand-
ing position with your pedals parallel to the ground while pinching
the nose of the saddle with your thighs or knees. Always yield at trail
intersections and call out to make your approach known. Approach
corners and blind spots carefully.
Make sure that you are riding on approved and open trails. Some parks
and recreation areas restrict mountain bike riding.
If you're riding in the wilderness, always ride with someone or leave
word of your destination and proposed route with a friend. Be ready
to make emergency bicycle repairs. You should also know some basic
rules of wilderness survival: map-reading, emergency signals, first aid
and other survival skills. Do not disturb the animals. Startling wild ani-
mals or livestock can be dangerous for both the animals and you. Stay
well away from animals. Give them plenty of time to adjust to your
presence. Pass horseback riders with care and courtesy. It is general-
ly suggested that you dismount from your bicycle and walk past
equestrians.
All Marin bicycles adhere to Consumer Product
Safety Commission regulations and standards.
C H A P T E R 4
B I K E E T I Q U E T T E A N D
T H E R U L E S O F T H E T R A I L
Marin Mountain Bikes supports the National Off-Road Bicycle
Association and encourages all Marin riders to ride responsibly by
adhering to the following NORBA Code:
NATIONAL OFF-ROAD BICYCLING ASSOCIATION (NORBA)
OFF-ROAD CYCLIST CODE
Off-pavement bicycling can open new horizons for you. In order to
maximize the benefit of your adventure and maintain the quality of
the experience for those who will follow you, we urge you to adopt
this code as your own.
1. I will yield the right-of-way to other non-motorized recreational-
ists. I realize that people judge all cyclists by my actions.
2. I will slow down and use caution when approaching or over-
taking another, and will make my presence known well in
advance.
3. I will maintain control of my speed at all times, and will
approach turns in anticipation of someone around the bend.
4. I will stay on designated trails to avoid trampling native vegeta-
tion and minimize potential erosion to trails by not using muddy
trails or short cutting switchbacks.
5. I will not disturb wildlife or livestock.
6. I will not litter. I will pack out what I pack in, and pack out more
than my share whenever possible.
15