How to Bike to Work, School, and Shopping

The rising cost of gas prices may have you looking for an easy solution. Your commute may be to drop your children off to and from school. You may need to get to work or run errands in your neighborhood. If you have a short commute why not ride your bike?

Bicycle

A bike commute may have not entered your mind as an alternative to driving your car. Bikes can be purchased inexpensively if you know where to look. Many adults purchase bikes with the intention of exercises, and only ride them a few times a year. That leaves plenty of practically new bikes that you could obtain.

Ask

Ask your friends or family members if they have a bike that you can purchase from them. Tell the people in your local area, that you are searching. Place a wanted ad on www.craigslist.org with the price that you are willing to pay. Also list the condition that you expect. If you want a bike that is very gently used, state that in your add. If you are willing to take a bike with a few dings and fix it up, be sure to mention that you are willing to make repairs.

Local Shops

Call local bike and pawn shops to get an estimate of the price range of bikes in your area. Visit a few of the bicycle shops. Drum up some small talk with the shop owner, so that they will know who you are. The shop attendant may share valuable information that you need to know as a bike rider in your city. Be sure to pick up their business cards, and make note of the attendant's name. You may need to contact them in the future for repair, or special orders for equipment.

Safety

Taking safety precautions has its own rewards. If you are going to be in traffic you may want to purchase safety gear. Your local bike shop will have safety equipment from helmets to knee pads at many price points. Consider bicycle accessories that will make your trip easier. For example an attached cart on wheels is perfect for shopping and errands done in your neighbor hood.

Making the decision to change your commute to work or to run errands has many benefits. Your bike commute can give you the benefits of a full day's exercise. The money that you save on gas can be allocated to other expenses in your budget, or to investing for the future. Use these tips while you search for a bicycle to commute to work, school, or local shopping.