About 30 enthusiasts participated in the San Juan Island Trails Committee’s Bike Trails Subcommittee bike ride Nov. 1.

Riders ranged in age from 4 to over 70. Riders comprised a well-rounded group whose goals include improving local non-motorized transportation and commuting options; bike safety improvements such as education, signage and multi-use trails; increasing awareness among local motorists of sharing roadways with cyclists; creating mountain bike trails, and just having a good time.

Group rides are an opportunity for locals interested in bicycling to unite, raise awareness of bicycling issues, and network and recruit new members to join the cause.

The group is excited about increasing ridership and building momentum through future activities, which will occur about once a month.

The next Bike Trails Subcommittee meeting is Nov. 17, 5 p.m. in Whidbey Island Bank’s community meeting room. At this meeting, the group expects to refine its goals and priorities, create a more formalized organizational structure, discuss potential trail options, and set dates for future group rides. 

This meeting is open to the public. If you are interested but can’t make the meeting, e-mail sjitrails@rockisland.com.

Here are some rules from the League of American Bicyclists for riding safely on the road.

— Follow the law: Your safety and the image of bicyclists depend on it. You have the same rights and responsibilities as drivers. Stop at red lights and stop signs. Ride with traffic and use the rightmost lane that heads in the direction you are going.

— Be predictable: Make sure drivers and other cyclists know what you are doing. Ride in a straight line and don’t swerve between parked cars. Signal your turns, and check behind you before turning or changing lanes.

— Be visible: Ride where drivers can see you. Use a front white light and red rear light and reflectors when it is dark or dusk; wear visible clothing at all times. Make eye contact with drivers. Don’t ride on the sidewalk.

— Think ahead: Anticipate what drivers, pedestrians and other cyclists are going to do next. Watch for turning vehicles and for opening car doors; ride outside the door zone. Look out for debris, potholes, and utility covers in the road.

— Ride ready: Make sure you have air in your tires, your brakes are working and your chain runs smoothly. Carry repair and emergency supplies appropriate to the length of your ride. Wear a helmet.