Ready. Set. Bike.

The weather is turning, and it's time to ready yourself to bike again. What do you need to do to get ready for the new season?

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2. Look over your bike (or better yet, let someone else look it over). Things to check: the chain, to make sure it is not dried out or too dirty; the tires, they can also dry out (if they're starting to crack, replace them), also properly inflate them before your first ride; ditto for brakes (except for the inflation part).
3. Review safe biking procedures: If you haven't biked in a group, or haven't in a while, remember these rules:
   
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   • Ride in single file on roads and trails. Leave a safe distance between yourself and other riders.
   • Signal if you are turning, slowing or stopping.
   • Always pass on the left; warn others before you do.
   • Alert other riders of cars in front or back, or other hazards in the road, such as potholes (in DC?), glass or tree branches