6 Ways to make you a better bicycle commuter.

Are you thinking of commuting by bicycle? It’s a great way to get in some exercise while saving time and money. But it can also be dangerous if you don’t know what you’re doing. Here are six ways to make you a better bicycle commuter.

1. Get a bicycle that fits your body size.  If your bicycle is too big or too small, you will not be comfortable.

2. Wear appropriate clothing for bicycling, including gloves and a helmet.  You don’t have to be in Dayglow green but having clothing that moves with you and that can take some of the abuse the road can give, will pay dividends in the long run.  Carry a good set of panniers from Lone Peak to carry your work clothes and lunch items, so once at work you can change and be fresh. 

3. Learn to ride the bike before you go out on the road with other traffic.  Negotiating the bike lanes or roads next to moving vehicles can be undaunting.  You have a right to be on the road same as a car.  Use good hand signals to make your intentions know to those around you.  Getting comfortable with this style of riding will help you be a successful commuter.

4. Plan your route – know where you’re going and how to get there so it’s safe and easy.  You will be surprised that there are many side and back roads that will lead to your work area.  Use maps to look for these and drive or ride them on a weekend to make sure you are sure where you’re going.  If you don’t have to suck the exhaust of cars around you, your life will be easier. 

5. Get lights, reflectors, and a bell for safety at night or in low visibility conditions.  Lights are a must especially when winter comes, and you might be riding in the dark or dusk conditions.  There are some awesome bells and noise making devices that make your presence know.  Safety is key.

6. Practice riding in different weather conditions – rain, snow, hot sun, cold wind.  This will be the test.  Will you be a fair-weather commuter, or the commuting warrior?  A little practice goes a lone way to helping you achieve warrior status. 

We hope you have found these tips helpful in making your bicycle commute more enjoyable. If not, let us know! As always, we are here to help with any questions or concerns that might arise along the way. And if you need some guidance on how to start out as a newbie cyclist, give us a call and we can help you choose the right products for your commute. Happy biking!