Remember that on a street, you either share the lane (cars pass next to you) or take the lane (you ride in the middle, and cars stay behind you or pass in another lane). If a street’s not wide enough for you to share safely, and taking the lane scares you, stay off that street—at least until you feel more comfortable. Riding behind an experienced partner can help.

Share the lane (left)
Take the lane (right)

Learn how well your brakes work: go fast, then try to stop within 10 feet. Then try to stop within six feet, then three feet, then one. Also see how quickly you can speed up from a stop. For more info on stopping.