Commuting by Bicycle

Commuting by bike. You'd be surprised at the number of times those three little words can make otherwise normal people stop in their tracks and drop their jaws. Not that you should be surprised, after all, we live in a car culture and it has been that way for generations. Using a bicycle as your primary mode of transportation is still a foreign concept to most Americans and it can be difficult to explain to people why anyone would voluntarily choose to commute by bike.
What is a boy to do? First and foremost people need to understand that my decision to live a car-free life is neither a political nor social statement but rather a personal choice based on my own unique circumstances. And while it is true that I make an effort to convince people to try alternate means of commuting to work such as riding a bicycle or take public transportation, I never criticize those who refuse to give up their cars, trucks and SUV's.

But for those adventuresome enough to try something new I would like to offer a few tips that will help make your commute by bike a little safer and a bit more enjoyable.

1. Front and rear bicycle lights (visibility is important)
2. Dress for the weather (comfortable but functional clothing)
3. Know your route (getting lost is never fun)
4. Know your detours (you never know)
5. Stay aware of your surroundings (stay safe and secure)

Front and Rear Bicycle Lights:

There are many high-end lighting systems on the market that will illuminate the road in front of you just as if you were in a car but the main function of bicycle lighting is safety, front and rear bicycle lights make you easy to spot when you are on the road so don't get caught riding without them. In many cities, bicycle lights are required by law if you are riding before sunrise or after sunset.

Dress For the Weather:

Some cyclists like to make a fashion statement when they are on their bikes but I stick to comfort and functionality. Cycling jerseys and cycling shorts serve a real purpose but let's be honest, nobody wants to see you standing in line at the supermarket wearing your tight fitting spandex. In summer weather I tend to ride in shorts and a t-shirt and in the wet months here in Oregon I'll wear jeans and a thermal top, donning rain paints and jacket when necessary. I won't be so bold as to tell you how to dress on your commute but I encourage you to think, comfort and functionality.

Know Your Route:

Unlike on weekend ride when you are free to explore, commuting to work by bicycle also includes getting to work on time. There are many route planning websites you can find on the Internet and once you have the route planned out I encourage you to ride it at least one time on your day off to get a feel for the time and distance and also to get to know the terrain. Nothing worse than to think you've found the perfect route to work only to find out that it is filled with steep hills or congested traffic.

Know Your Detours:

Once again, getting lost or delayed while commuting to and from work on your bicycle is not a pleasant experience but unforeseen events can always take place that might prohibit you from taking your normal route to work or back home. It is worth the investment in time to go out on your day off and scout some alternate routes along your normal commute just in case the need arises. Better to plan ahead than be caught having to take an unknown street or bike path if your main route becomes inaccessible.

Stay Aware of Your Surroundings:

Situational awareness. Never get too comfortable on your commute. Always make sure you stay focused on your surroundings to avoid vehicles or pedestrians or anything else that may be a safety issue. This is especially true if you commute early in the mornings or after sunset. Remaining aware of your environment will help keep you safe when commuting by bike.

So there you have it. I've just given you my two-cents worth when it comes to commuting by bike. If you're like me then you are already taking advantage of the joys of biking and if you are just starting out or even considering riding your bicycle to work then I hope that my article has helped provide you with a basic foundation to start with. Enjoy and remember, commute by bike!

Source: Personal Experience