Safety Tips

Be Prepared: A little preparation goes a long way.

Before leaving home, make sure you have:

  • A properly fitted helmet (required)
  • Tire pressure checked
  • Brakes are working properly
  • Chain lubricated
  • Water bottles filled
  • Nutrition for longer distances
  • Spare tube or flat repair kit
  • Identification and emergency contact information
  • Cell phone

Perform the ABC Quick Check

Remember your pre-ride ABCs!

  • A – Air: Check tire pressure and inspect tires for cuts or excessive wear.
  • B – Brakes: Ensure both brakes operate smoothly and stop the bike effectively.
  • C – Chain & Cranks: Confirm the chain is clean and lubricated, and that the crank arms and pedals are secure.

A two-minute inspection before your ride can prevent mechanical problems on the course.

During the Ride, Ride Predictably

  • Ride in a straight line and avoid sudden movements.
  • Signal turns and stops.
  • Communicate hazards to riders behind you.
  • Obey all traffic laws.
  • Remember: THIS IS AN OPEN-ROAD EVENT, AND WE ARE SHARING THE ROAD. We must respect all traffic laws and traffic control officers.
  • Motor vehicles have the right to use the roadway.

Ride Single File

  • When traffic increases or road conditions require it, ride single file and allow vehicles to pass safely.
  • Courtesy keeps everyone safe.

Stay Alert

  • Avoid wearing headphones that prevent you from hearing traffic or other riders.
  • Keep your eyes on the road—not your phone.
  • Remain aware of changing road conditions.

Hydration & Nutrition

  • Don’t wait until you’re thirsty.
  • Drink regularly throughout the ride.
  • Eat small amounts frequently on longer routes.
  • Use the rest stops to refill bottles, stretch, and recharge.

Rest Stops

Every rest stop is staffed by enthusiastic volunteers AND a local bike shop for mechanical support ready to help.

You’ll find:

  • Water
  • Sports drinks
  • Snacks
  • Restrooms
  • Encouragement
  • Route information

Mechanical Support

  • Flat tire?
  • Mechanical issue?
  • Minor adjustment?

Throughout the course, at each rest stop and the start/finish area, we will have a number of local bike shops on hand to assist you with any minor mechanical issues to help keep you moving whenever possible.

If You Need SAG Help

If you’re unable to continue riding because of fatigue, illness, or a mechanical issue:

  1. Move safely off the roadway.
  2. Notify a volunteer or call the event support number printed on your rider bib.
  3. Remain with your bicycle until assistance arrives unless safety requires otherwise.
VERY IMPORTANT NOTE:

Our SAG team is there to help stranded riders throughout the event.  HOWEVER, if you call for SAG support but are picked up by a friend, family member, or another non-official Gear Up vehicle, please take a moment to call the SAG support number (TBD) and let us know you are safe. A quick update helps our team keep track of every rider and prevents us from sending a search party looking for someone who is already off the course.

Emergency Situations

If you witness a serious accident:

  • Ensure your own safety first.
  • Call 911 immediately if emergency medical care is needed.
  • Notify the nearest volunteer or event staff member.
  • Do not move an injured rider unless there is immediate danger.

First aid personnel and emergency response resources are positioned throughout the event.

Weather

Texas weather can be unpredictable and change without a moment’s notice.

If severe weather affects the event, official updates will be communicated through:

Our Commitment to You

Every rider deserves to feel confident from the moment they arrive until they cross the finish line.

That’s why Gear Up Against Kids Cancer provides:

✓ Clearly marked routes

✓ Experienced volunteers

✓ Fully stocked rest stops

✓ SAG support vehicles

✓ First aid support

✓ Course monitoring

✓ A welcoming cycling community

Whether you’re riding your first 28-mile charity ride or completing the Metric Century, we’re committed to helping you enjoy a safe, memorable experience.

Because every mile matters—and when fighting cancer, NO KID rides alone.