Bike to Work Week Commuting Tips

With the warmer weather, gas prices at more than $4 per gallon and the upcoming “Bike to Work Week” from June 11-17, more people are considering riding their bike to work. It is much easier to go from “thinking” about it to actually riding, if there are some helpful tips to get you on your way.

First and foremost, you need a bike but do not feel a need to rush out and buy a new one. Most people already have a bike and, besides dusting it off, just have to make sure the bike is in working order. Pump up the tires, make sure the brakes and shifters work and use a bike-specific lubricant on the chain. Your local bike shops may have discounts on bike maintenance leading up to “Bike to Work Week.”

Route selection will probably take the most consideration. The way that you drive to work will likely not be the same route you would like to bike. Residential streets will have less traffic than main thoroughfares. The League of Illinois Bicyclists has produced maps for several communities showing bike-friendly routes and has produced “Bike to Metra” guides for more than 20 towns and villages that provide routes and commuting tips. The "Bike to Metra" guides are available on LIB's website at http://www.bikelib.org/maps-and-rides/bike-to-metra-guides/. Google and MapQuest also both have bicycling trip options but are new features and should be cautiously considered. If possible, pre-ride your route by bike or at least drive it before the big bike commute day.

Give yourself enough time to travel by bike without having to sprint. Bicyclists should ride in the same direction as traffic and, by state law, have all the rights and responsibilities as the driver of a motorized vehicle. Bicyclists should obey all traffic signals and use hand signals to indicate when they are turning and changing lanes.

Besides wearing a helmet, your clothing may be the same if you are only riding a short distance. Alternatively, you can leave clothes at work or bring them with you to change once you arrive at the office. Deodorant and baby wipes can help you freshen up once you arrive. If you cannot bring your bicycle into your workplace, lock both the frame and tires with a good quality lock.

After the first ride, many are hooked on bike commuting. “Riding your bike is a great way to help you lose weight or stay in shape, reduce stress and save money that would be spent on gas,” LIB executive director Ed Barsotti said. For more commuting tips and other bicycling resources, visit http://www.bikelib.org/maps-and-rides/bike-commuting/.