How to Dismount from a Bicycle

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Last Updated: February 16, 2022

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There are several ways you can dismount from a bicycle safely. Below are a couple of recommended methods to start with.

Method 1

Method 1 of 4:

Basic Method

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(This is the most important step. If you remain seated you will not have as much control over your bike once stopped.)
Use your body, rather than the handlebars.

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Method 2

Method 2 of 4:

"Noob" Method

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Method 3

Method 3 of 4:

"Jumpin' the Gun" Method

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the bike still moves) when you are a few yards away from your destination.
The bike should begin to skid.
It should come to an early stop.
Swing a foot over the bike and walk it up to an optimal location.

Method 4

Method 4 of 4:

High Style Method

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Swing a foot (usually the right foot is used but either foot is acceptable) behind the back of your bicycle seat, while the bicycle is still in slight motion. Note: If you have toe clips, be very sure to disconnect your pedal foot from them! If you forget this, you will find yourself literally slammed on the ground when your "swing" foot touches the ground to stop!^{[4]
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Use your body rather than your steering to balance.^{[5]
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Question

How do I safely dismount from a men's bicycle with a rear baby seat attached?

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You would need to swing your leg over the frame in front of you so that you don't hit the baby.

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I don't have brakes on my bicycle, so how do I stop?

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You should put brakes on your bicycle, riding without them is unsafe. For now, if you're tall enough, simply put your feet down on the ground to slow, and then stop your bike.

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Question

What if I crash after I place both feet on one side of the bike?

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You can jump backwards before impact if your reflexes are strong enough. Plant both of your feet in order to slow down, then right before the bike hits something, push off the front ball of your foot and backpedal.

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Tips

Many beginning riders feel uncomfortable about standing up on a pedal. The seated position may seem a lot safer because the center of gravity is lower. However, stopping while seated is very tricky. If the seat height is adjusted correctly (only the toes touch the ground while seated), the rider will have to lean the bike more to one side in order to get a foot flat on the ground. This is likely to cause the bike to fall over to one side completely (possibly with one leg under it) and cause injury.

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When first learning the second method, try doing it on a soft surface in case you fall. This is the preferred method for children and teens; occasionally adults will do it this way as well.

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It might be good to start by bringing the seat down so that both feet can be flat on the ground while seated. This eases the fear of falling. However, once you gain experience, move up the seat so that only the toes touch the ground.

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