Starting, Stopping and Dismounting with Control

Technique for starting with the pedal in the power position, stopping smoothly with both brakes and getting off on the curb side. These are the moves repeated most on a city ride and the ones that cause the most slow-speed falls when done badly.

How to play

1. Power pedal start: set the front pedal at two o'clock, look back, push off and sit down (4 min).
2. Starts in lanes 10 feet apart, on the signal, with a shoulder check before pushing off (5 min).
3. Controlled stop: squeeze both brakes progressively, slide slightly forward off the seat and put down the curb-side foot (5 min).
4. Full sequence: start, ride 15 m, stop next to a cone curb, get off on the right and get back on (4 min).
5. Discussion in groups of three about which step is hardest and why (2 min).

Rules

• Helmet buckled at all times.
• Always look back before starting.
• One rider per lane; start only once the rider ahead has stopped.
• Brake with both brakes progressively, never locking up suddenly.

Variations

Adaptations

• Nervous riders: lower the seat so both feet reach the ground to build confidence.
• Low vision: lanes marked with large cones and spoken cues from a partner.
• Limited mobility: observes with the sheet and gives the starts.

Learning goals

• Start smoothly using the pedal in the power position.
• Stop with control and dismount on the safe side.
• Make the shoulder check before starting automatic.

Equipment for a class of 25

• bikes: 10
• helmets: 10
• cones: 16

Teacher tip

If there are not enough bikes, ask the local police or city hall (many run bike safety programs with loaner bikes) or a cycling club, or let students bring their own with parent permission; with 10 bikes, work in groups of three that rotate. This lesson works well at the start of the unit, before the slalom and U-turn.

More main activities for High School