Bicycle Safety and AAA Roadside Assistance for Cyclists

Article overview

• Bicycling promotes exercise, mental health and eco-friendly travel.
• Safety planning and proper gear—like helmets and reflectors—can help prevent accidents.
• Packing essentials like water, ID and a first aid kit is important for any ride.
• E-bikes require extra planning due to battery range and braking differences.
• AAA offers roadside assistance for traditional bikes, e-bikes and rentals.

Bicycling offers freedom for many that being in a car doesn’t. Not only does it help exercise muscles, but biking also helps people relax and improve their health. Additionally, biking brings riders closer to the environment and saves on gas. 

What’s even better than all that? AAA Membership includes roadside assistance for bicycles, so whether you get a flat, have a loose chain or the battery on your e-bike runs out, AAA has got you covered. 

Here are some tips to help keep you upright and ready for your next two-wheeled adventure:

Plan for a safer bike ride

Whether cycling around the block or heading out for a daylong journey, taking time to plan your bike trip makes any ride smoother. Although many roads in the United States have bike lanes, they’re not completely blocked off from traffic in most locations, and distracted drivers drifting into bike lanes or speeding can cause injuries. If you choose to ride on the street, be sure to wear reflective gear, have bike lights in the front and rear, use hand signals and obey the rules of the road. 

An alternative to riding on the sidewalk or streets is to find a paved bike path or trail. These paths are located away from motorized traffic and provide a safer way to get from one point to another. Often, these paths are repurposed railway tracks that are no longer in use; search for “rail trails near me” to find the closest ones near you. 

No matter where you ride your bike, wearing a helmet is essential for everyone, regardless of age. According to the American College of Surgeons, wearing a bike helmet reduces the risk of traumatic brain injury by 53% and fatal injury by 34%.

Helmets come in a variety of sizes and are adjustable, so be sure to purchase a helmet where the widest part rests along the back of your head and has no cracks or damage. 

What to bring on short and long bike rides

Once you've chosen your route and selected the best-fitting helmet, start packing for your trip. Even if you're only going out for an hour, having a few essentials will ensure that you're comfortable in case something unexpected happens. All riders should pack:

• Water bottle
• Driver's license or legal identification
• Health insurance cards
• Cell phone and charger
• Basic small first aid kit
• Sunscreen
• Cash or credit card for emergencies

Riders heading out on a longer ride should also bring:

• Snacks that provide protein and energy
• Multiple water bottles or a hydration pack
• Lightweight rain jacket or poncho
• Printed map for backup navigation
• Heavy-duty lock in case you need to stop.

Pack everything in saddlebags or a basket to help keep hands free and ensure the weight is evenly distributed. Also, no matter how long you’ll be gone, always let someone know where you’re going, when you expect to be back and your route. 

Staying safe and prepared on an e-bike

The popularity of e-bikes in the United States has soared over the past several years. While a common sight throughout Europe, Americans are just beginning to see the benefits of owning an electric bicycle. There are some things to know and prepare for when riding this type of bike. 

First, e-bikes are categorized into three separate classes. Class 1 bikes can reach speeds of up to 20 mph and provide pedal assist, which, when activated, helps the rider pedal more easily and gives a little extra push. Class 2 e-bikes also have a top speed of up to 20 mph, similar to a Class 1 bike, but with the push of the throttle, these bikes provide power, and the rider doesn’t have to pedal to progress. And while Class 3 e-bikes are pedal-assisted, like Class 1 e-bikes, they can reach speeds of up to 28 mph and often feature throttles as well. States are starting to restrict the types of e-bikes that can be ridden on bike paths and rail trails, so it's best to check with your local laws for guidance. 

In addition to the items traditional bike riders need to bring on their rides, those on e-bikes must also monitor their battery range, especially when riding for an extended period. Speaking of longer trips, those riders should consider carrying their charger, just in case. And e-bike riders need to practice safe braking and be very aware of their surroundings, as it takes longer to brake the faster you’re going. 

What to do if you have a flat or bike issue

When on the road whether in a car or on a bicycle, roadside assistance coverage offers peace of mind. So, if your bike gets flat or becomes inoperable, there is help available with AAA Bicycle Service, which is a free benefit of AAA Membership.

While tow truck drivers for AAA can’t fix bikes, they will pick you and your bike up to take you wherever you need to go--to your car, a bike repair shop or even home. Your membership level determines the distance covered, and transportation is only provided for the rider whose bike is inoperable. 

Service applies to traditional and e-bikes, as well as rented bicycles and trailers pulled by bikes, provided the trailer can be safely transported. It’s one more way AAA helps make your ride smoother, safer and worry-free.

Whether you're commuting, exploring a rail trail or taking a leisurely loop around your neighborhood, biking offers physical, emotional and environmental benefits.

With a little preparation and the added peace of mind that AAA Bicycle Service provides, you can ride confidently, knowing help is just a click or call away—no matter where the journey takes you.