How to bike to work and enjoy your commute

Are you considering a commute by bike? Here are a few tips to help you out so you can truly enjoy your bicycle commute. You will enjoy the benefit of getting in shape, saving gas, and actually looking forward to your daily commute!

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• bike
• helmet
• lock
• backback or rack bag

1. Choose your bike. Anything will do, although hybrids or road bikes are usually more popular for longer commutes.
2. Select your gear. You should always wear a helmet and bike gloves are recommended. Depending on your needs and preferences, you can select some biking shorts and shirts for riding comfort.
3. Setup your bike with a rack and attached bag or plan on carrying a backpack. In addition to the standard reflectors, you should also have a lighted rear light and front light if riding near dusk or dawn.
4. Plan for weather. It is perfectly acceptable to only ride on sunny days when first getting into bicycle commuting. Regardless, you should have a windbreaker or light rain jacket just in case you are caught in the rain.
5. Practice fixing a flat and have the correct tools. Buy a small multi-purpose tool at a bike shop and a patch kit. Next, you'll need a compact pump. (Take a look at the CO2 cartridge pumps!)
6. Plan your route. Don't think like a car driver when planning your route. Consider how busy the roads are, how wide the shoulders are, and where the hills are. Also, take a look at regional bicycle and walking trails.
7. If a part-time bike commuter, bring your clothes to work when driving. Otherwise, try carrying your outfit in your pack each day. Roll your clothes to minimize wrinkles.
8. Ride! Always ride on the right-hand side of the road and never ride against traffic. Despite the opinion of novices and many car drivers, you are much safer off of the sidewalks and don't have to ride on the right side of the white line on the shoulder. (Know your local laws and regulations.)
9. Lock your bike in a safe location. Ideally in a well lit area that has pedestrian traffic.
10. If you don't have showers at work then you can just shower in the morning before getting on your bike. You can always take it easy on the way in or take the bus with your bike. Have a washcloth, small towel, and deodorant at work for a quick clean up in the bathroom.
11. Gloat. Tell everyone how much you are enjoying your commute by bike.

Tips & Warnings

• Ask other cyclists at your office for route ideas
• Keep work shoes at your desk (less things to carry)
• Always be aware of your surroundings and try to predict dangerous situations before they actually happen.
• Always ride in the same direction as traffic - never against it.