Save Money on Gas: Bicycle to Work

Riding a bicycle doesn't require great athletic skill. You can buy used and have plenty of choices. In fact, it may be to your advantage to buy a cheap, used bike and, to minimize its appeal to thieves, leave the old scratched paint and fender dings untouched.

How practical is a bicycle? Depends on your route. If it's going to wear you out, you're going to need a shower and a change of clothes when you get to work. If it's an easy ride of a half-dozen blocks or so on flat ground, you shouldn't have any problems. Compare that to motorists who will see their gas mileage get killed by starting and stopping on short-range drives to work.

Riding in Traffic

Streets that have high traffic are not necessarily more dangerous than streets with low traffic. A lot of what's involved is just getting into the rhythym of the traffic. Watch out at intersections. Don't hesitate to simply dismount and walk your bike across in the pedestrian crossing. Watch out for the driver getting ready to open his door right in your path. Keep in mind that about 90% of accidents involve crossing traffic and making turns. Act accordingly.

Your best strategy is to establish a route and stick to it. Your familiarity with the route will increase your safety. Be sure you obey traffic signals and stop signs. One tip: try to operate in a manner that makes you predictable to motorists; no wild riding and lane switching.

Be visible. When it's cool, choose a bright-colored jacket over something drab you might otherwise select. Use reflectors liberally although that's no guarantee of being seen at night. About 30% of wrecks involving bicycles occur at night, even though only 4% of riding is done then.

Speaking of personal safety, a bicycle helmet is recommended. Most bicycle accident fatalities involve cars, mostly due to head injuries.

Ride with the traffic. Some people think it's safer to ride against the traffifc so you can see what's coming, but experts disagree. It's also illegal in all 50 states.

Before setting out for the day, test your bike. Make sure the tires are okay, check the brakes, see that nothing is scraping. Lift and gently bounce the bike a few times...see if anything falls off.

Upkeep Tips

Carry some basic tools, including a pump, patch kit, wrench, screwdriver, cotton work gloves. Have them in something detachable you can take inside with you and stash. while we're at it, remember that your bike is subject to theft when not in your care. Try to find something to secure it to with a simple chain and lock or U-shaped metal shackle lock.

Keep the bicycle oiled and get it serviced periodically.

Have the widest tires possible for your bicycle to ensure better traction. A rearview mirror is recommended, plastic reflectors in front, back, and both sides of wheel spokes, and a strong, battery operated headlight with a wide beam pointing slightly down.