Bike to Work!

 Bike to Work! 

Many of us are looking for ways to get into shape, save money and help the environment…riding your bicycle to work is a great way to do all three! If you’ve never ridden your bike to work it might sound a little intimidating, but with a little preparation it can be a great experience.

If your bike has been sitting in the garage collecting dust it is important to take it to a bike shop to check the brakes, tires and other safety features.  Once the bike has been deemed “road worthy” it is helpful to take it out for a trip or two, or even ride to work on your day off to get a feel for the route.  A test ride can help you find the best route, which may be different from your normal route, as well as determine how much time it will take. 

Most of all remember to be safe and have fun!

Remember these Important Safety Tips!

1. Protect your head: Wear a helmet Did you know that wearing a bicycle helmet can reduce head injuries by 85%? Select a helmet that fits snugly and fits flat on the head.
2. Make eye contact with drivers Assume that drivers don’t see you until you are sure they do. Eye contact is important with any driver that might pose a threat to your safety.
3. Stay alert and always check traffic Always look left-right-left to ensure that it is safe to continue, and walk your bicycle into the street to begin your ride. Watch for traffic that may be turning.
4. Obey traffic signs and signals Traffic laws apply to bicycles. Observe stop signs, traffic lights and other posted signs. Be sure to signal turns, lane changes, and stops.
5. Avoid road hazards  Always check the road, watch out for gravel, ice, garbage, potholes, cracks, or anything in the road that could make you fall. Cross railroad tracks at right angles.
6. Go with the flow  Never ride against traffic. Motorists aren’t looking for bicyclists riding on the wrong side of the street. Ride on the right side of the road in a straight predictable path.