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Station 7: Object in Roadway (Rock Dodge and Car Door Opening)
Purpose
This exercise involves scanning to the rear, control, and balance of the bicycle. Being observant
of the traffic environment and riding in a predictable manner is also important. Knowing how to
avoid a road hazard will prevent many crashes. Hitting a pothole or riding over debris on the road
can cause the rider to lose control of the bike and be forced into the flow of traffic.
Objectives
1. Be able to assess need to move left in traffic, recognizing the risks involved.
2. Demonstrate a proper scan to the rear.
3. Use proper signals, control the bike and move safely around the object.
Method
- In the Rock Dodge, the cyclist rides along the narrow station lines until the object on the road is
seen. At this point the rider begins to scan to the rear and slow down. If it is clear to proceed
around the object the cyclist quickly turns to dodge the object. This is accomplished by turning
the front wheel one way to avoid the object, turning back the other way to avoid falling, and
finally correcting the bike to continue riding down the road. If done properly, the cyclist misses
the object with the front wheel but does not swerve more than a foot, staying out of the adjacent
traffic flow.
- After passing the object, the cyclist watches for the car door opening ahead, rides around it after
scanning and slows down. The cyclist should look to the rear, slow down, move into the adjacent
traffic lane, and indicate to the person opening the door that they are approaching.
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