Summary: With the new emphases on biking in Willow Park, all bikers need to realize they have the same responsibilities and public road rules as do motorized vehicle drivers. In addition, there are Rules for Safety and Outdoor Ethics for all Willow Park and Weatherford Mountain Bike Club trails. Keep trails open by setting a good example of environmentally sound and socially responsible trail use.
Latest Update: 07 August 2024
Bike Rules for Texas Roads and Willow Park Trails
With the new emphases on biking in Willow Park, all bikers need to realize they have the same responsibilities and road rules on public roads as do motorized vehicle drivers Bikes are considered vehicles in Texas -- and have the same road rules and tickets. [1]
In addition, there are Rules for Safety and Outdoor Ethics for all Willow Park and Weatherford Mountain Bike Trails. [2]
Keep trails open by setting a good example of environmentally sound and socially responsible trail use. [2]
Sources and Resources
[1] Fact brief: Are bikes legally recognized as vehicles in Texas? Fort Worth Report, 20 July 2024 Excerpt
• Rules for cyclists include
• following lane markings,
• using paved shoulders and bike lanes when available,
• and staying in the far right lane unless passing or traveling at the same speed as other cars.
• Bikes are not equipped with turn signals so cyclists are expected to use hand signals to alert other drivers where they are going.
• The Texas Department of Transportation advises riders
• to wear a helmet,
• use a light when riding at night and
• not wear headphones.
[2] New Trinity Track in Kings Gate Park is rolling., Willow Park Civics, 19 June 2024, WMBC Rules of the Trinity Trail in .pdf .
Safety and outdoor ethics
The guidelines below define trail behavior to be followed on all Weatherford Mountain Bike Club (WMBC) maintained multi-use trails. [which includes the Willow Park Trinity Trails] The Safety and outdoor ethics are intended to promote responsible and courteous conduct on shared-use trails. Keep in mind that conventions for yielding and passing may vary, depending on the intended use of the trail and are to be followed as noted below. WMBC multi-use trails are intended to be used by people on foot or bicycle only ,horses and motorized vehicles are strictly prohibited on WMBC designated Multi-use trails.
1 Cyclist must wear a helmet at all times.
2. Do not ride hike and/or run on muddy trails. Be sensitive to the dirt beneath you. Wet and muddy trails are more vulnerable to damage than dry ones. Ride. Hike and run on existing trails only.
3. Mountain biking, hiking and trail running are sports rooted in the principles and ideals of personal responsibility and self sufficiency.
• Plan ahead.
• Know your equipment, your ability and the area in which you are recreating - and prepare accordingly.
• The WMBC recommends Trail users to recreate in groups of no less than 2 individuals.
• Strive to be self-sufficient.
• Be sure someone knows where you are before heading out.
• Keep your equipment in good repair and carry necessary supplies for changes in weather or other conditions.
• All trail users Should carry plenty of water or other forms of hydration.
4. Ride. Hike and/or run on open trails only. Respect trail closures. Refer to the WMBC facebook page for trail conditions and closures.
5. Do not cut switchbacks. Stay on designated trails. You put yourself and others at risk by cutting switchbacks and straying off trail.
6. Pack out what you pack in. Used gel packets, discarded water bottles, punctured tubes and the like are not part of the trail environment nor the trailheads.
7. Control your bicycle, inattention for even a moment could put yourself and others at risk. Use proper judgement and ride within your Limits.
8. Yield to others, do your utmost to let your fellow trail users know you're coming — a friendly greeting or bell ring are good methods.
Always try to anticipate other trail users. "WMBC yield policy" is defined as follows:
• Walkers/hikers yield to trail runners.
• Trail runners yield to bicycles. WMBC yield policy takes the stance that it is easier for a person on foot moving at a slower pace to yield to other faster moving persons on foot or bicycle. With that being said, all trail users must strive to make each pass a safe and courteous one.
9. Be respectful of wildlife. Wildlife and domestic animals are easily startled by an unannounced approach, a sudden movement or a loud Noise. Give animals enough room and time to adjust to you. Being reckless and disturbing wildlife are serious offenses.
10. Control and pick up after your dog, all dogs must be on a leash no longer than six feet (6'.0"). Dog owners are required to clean up and Carry out their dog's waste.
11. No smoking on WMBC trails or at trailhead facilities.
12. Keep your ears open and your ear buds out. Listen to nature rather than an audio device. Please.
13. Horses and motorized vehicles are not permitted on WMBC trailsi
14. Class 1 e-MTB's are allowed. Class 2 and 3 MTB's, unclassified MTB's, e-motos, e-one wheels and e-scooters are prohibited.
15. No hunting, use of firearms or fireworks: dial 911 if you witness illegal activity.
16. Medical emergency: dial 911.
Keep trails open by setting a good example of environmentally sound and socially responsible trail use.
• header graphic Texas Bicycle Laws
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