How to ride a bike in Raleigh

Explore how to bike safely in your community with these tips on cycling laws, shops + maintenance, community making, and more bike tips for Raleigh riding.

A line of bicycles outside of Crank Arm Brewing.

Crank Arm Brewing is a hub for 919 cyclists.

Photo provided by Crank Arm Brewing

Table of Contents

Take off the training wheels — we’re talking cycling. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist, new biker, or just cycling-curious, enjoy the end of cycling season by learning some bike tips for Raleigh.

Know the laws

Learn the laws of the road to be a successful and safe cyclist for pedestrians, vehicles, and other bikers. Legally, road cyclists are considered vehicles and have the same rights + responsibilities as cars — meaning cyclists can’t run red lights, must use turn lanes and signals, and riding while impaired is illegal.

Cyclists must outfit their bike with a front and back light or wear reflective clothing when riding after dark.

The City of Raleigh has eight different types of bike lanes like sharrows — shared lane markings — and conventional bike lanes with dedicate street space for bicyclists — two-stage turn boxes, cycle boxes, and more. Try the BikeRaleigh app to learn more about the roads near you.

Grab your gear

A group of cyclists outside Oak City Cycling at night.

In addition to being a one-stop shop for bikes and accessories, Oak City Cycling holds group rides.

Photo provided by Eamon Queeney/Oak City Cycling

The Bicycle Chain, 9000 Glenwood Ave. | Before you head to Umstead State Park, grab a couple cycling accessories at this shop located right near the park’s entrance.

Cycle Logic, 1211 Hillsborough St. | This shop is the oldest in Raleigh and offers standard bike parts, equipment, and accessories, as well as vintage parts.

Oak City Cycling, 707 N. Person St. | Grab all the necessary cycling gear here, plus, try one of the pre-planned routes which start and end at the shop.

John Bicycles, 5212 Old Wake Forest Rd. | Get your ride fixed in as little as one day by this local mechanic.

Make some friends

If you’re a cyclist and beer lover, ride to Crank Arm Brewing, a cyclist hub with beers, a cycling club, and a biking-themed taproom.

Are coffee shops more your vibe? Pine State Coffee is a cyclist friendly spot roasting their own beans and serving coffee in a unique space.

Oaks and Spokes is an advocacy organization aiming to make Raleigh into the City of Spokes by promoting a sustainable + equitable transportation model. Join the group on weekly rides to Crank Arm, play bike polo, and attend bike and pedestrian advocacy committee meetings.

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