Tips for Bicycle Commuting

Plan your Route

• Think about how far you’re traveling, the amount of traffic, road widths and conditions, and the terrain.
• Drive your selected route looking for wide roads with less traffic or streets with bike lanes. Major streets may not be the ideal choice.
• Ride your route on the weekend watching for hazards (potholes, blind intersections) and time your trip.

Be Safe and Predictable

• Always wear a helmet and signal turns.
• Position yourself to be seen. If the road is too narrow for you and a vehicle, it’s legal and safer for a bicyclist to take the lane.

Carrying Cargo

• Pack your briefcase, lunch, clothes, etc. in front or rear racks, frameless backpacks, baskets, saddle bags and seat bags (panniers), or a trailer. These items are available at bike shops. Be sure to secure your cargo with bungee cord, if necessary.

Pack Tools

• Have your bike tuned and checked at a bike shop before you start commuting.
• Keep a tire pump, patch kit (with spare tube), and small tool kit with you and know how to repair a flat and fix a chain.
• Replace your tires when worn and headlight batteries when dim.

Dress to Commute

• Avoid wearing sandals or high heels.
• Wearing ankle straps will keep your pant legs out of the gears.
• Fenders will keep dirt and mud off your clothes.