Regular maintenance of asphalt surfaces is vital to their longevity, and this sentiment is particularly important when it comes to bike paths. Bicycles are more affected by uneven surfaces than cars or trucks because their wheels are smaller. As a result, factors that you might normally consider minor on a roadway are incredibly dangerous when located on a designated bike trail. Ensure your paths are safe and secure by watching out for a few surface issues.

3 Asphalt Issues on a Bike Path That Require Immediate Attention

1. Holes

Ruts are one of the most common issues experienced on bike paths, and if not rectified through regular maintenance, they can create small holes in the surface. A hole with a diameter of less than an inch can cause serious damage to both a bike and the rider. Hitting the hole at a high speed can cause the tire to blow, which is a common cause of crashes.

2. Accumulation

During the colder months of the year, frozen precipitation can be extremely dangerous. Even less than an inch of snow can result in serious accidents because it can become packed and create an uneven surface. If the bike's wheel hits a raised section of snow at the wrong angle, it could cause the rider to flip over the handlebars and experience injuries.

3. Cracks

There are various types of cracks that can occur with asphalt surfaces, and all of them pose a potential danger to bikers. Longitudinal cracking runs down the length, and when they widen, they can catch the wheels of the bike and cause the rider to fall off. Transverse cracking occurs across the width of the bike path and if not repaired quickly, can create a situation similar to a pothole.

By making small repairs and scheduling annual maintenance to a bike path, you can avoid larger, more dangerous problems from occurring. If you're looking for an experienced civil paving team to correct your community's asphalt surface issues, turn to Caddo Construction in Anchorage, AK. Along with their paving solutions, the local company also offers snow removal to residential, commercial, and civil clients. Learn more about their services on their website, or request a quote today by calling (907) 333-6160.