Rick Bush lives near Colonial Drive and has patiently, but eagerly, awaited the construction to wrap up that will make it possible to commute to Montana City on the Frontage Road.

While watching the road get closer and closer to completion, Bush, past president of the Helena Bicycle Club, thought it would be a good idea to give cyclists an opportunity to ride the route before it is open to the public.

On Sunday afternoon, with the cooperation of the Montana Department of Transportation, the City of Helena and Try Another Way State Employees, about 20 bicycle riders participated in a roundabout navigation education event.

It was nice to ride it before it was open to the public, Bush said, because sometimes it can be challenging to jockey for a position in the flow of traffic.

"A car will not respect the fact that a cyclist has a place in the line (of traffic)," Kelly Flaherty Settle, vice president of the Helena Bicycle Club, said.

After the cycle group rode the Frontage Road to Montana City and returned, Flaherty Settle said the idea behind roundabouts is great, but she has some concerns.

"We were there today to learn especially how to use the roundabout as a cyclists and I'm not sure how they are going to get the same information out to drivers," she said. "I hope that drivers will take the time to learn the same rules that we did today."

The roundabout event taught riders many things, even experienced riders like Flaherty Settle.

She learned that Montana law allows bicyclists to hold their right arm straight out to indicate a right turn instead of a left arm bent upward at the elbow.

"I didn't know that until today," she said.

Pam Langve-Davis, bike/pedestrian coordinator for MDT, said roundabouts are becoming increasingly more common and educating those who use them is critical.

"Bicycles are part of the part of the traffic mix and if anything I would offer education to motor vehicles as well," she said.

Langve-Davis said cyclists should navigate roundabouts just like a vehicle would and signal intent.

"Whether in a vehicle or a bicycle, drive defensively and watch what the other traffic will do," she said.

For more information about roundabouts or bicycle safety, contact Langve-Davis at 444-9273

Reporter Alana Listoe: 447-4081 or alana.listoe@helenair.com.

Rules for navigating roundabouts are the same for bicycles and motor vehicles

1. Slow down to 15 mph or less.

2. Look to the left.

Traffic flows counterclockwise. Yield to vehicles in the roundabout -- they have the right of way.

3. Stay to the right of the center island.

Do not stop, and do not pass other vehicles.

4. Travel around the circle until you reach your turn. Use your right-turn signal.

5. Watch for and yield to pedestrians in or waiting at the crosswalk.

-- Montana Department of Transportation