A motorist should know that a bicyclist operating on a roadway must:
- Ride on the right side of the road ✓
- Ride on the side of the road facing traffic
- Ride on either side of the road
- Ride on the side of the road with the least traffic
Answer: A. Ride on the right side of the road
A bicyclist on a roadway must ride on the right side of the road.
Why this is the answer
The manual says that where there is no bicycle lane, cyclists must stay near the right curb or edge of the road, or on a right shoulder, so they do not interfere with other traffic. It also says bicyclists travel in the same direction as motor vehicles. The right-side rule has exceptions only when the cyclist is preparing for a left turn or must move left to avoid a hazard. That makes riding on the right the general rule a motorist should expect.
Why the other answers are wrong
- B. Ride on the side of the road facing traffic — Riding on the side facing traffic contradicts the manual, which says bicyclists travel in the same direction as motor vehicles.
- C. Ride on either side of the road — The manual gives a general right-side position, not a choice of either side of the road.
- D. Ride on the side of the road with the least traffic — The manual does not say to pick the side with the least traffic; it says to stay near the right curb, edge, or shoulder when there is no bike lane.
Remember it
Remember: same direction as cars, keep to the right edge unless a turn or hazard requires moving left.