Bikes are a great mode of transportation for commuting to work. Bicycling is a great way to get exercise, cut carbon
emissions, and be a part of a growing community of people who bike to work.
Bicycling can be easy, safe and fun for everyone. Please read below for helpful tips that will prepare you for
commuting by bike.
Before you begin biking to work, it is important to choose a bike that fits properly and is comfortable. Check with a
local bike shop about options and get advice on what fits best. Electric bikes allow for more accessibility by assisting
riders with pedaling and hybrid bikes are easier to mount. Once you have chosen a bike that is comfortable you can
begin equipping it with items such as a rack which creates ease of carrying items with you while biking to work.
Bikes and associated gear cost money, but there are cheaper options for used bikes through community and local
bike shops. Blue Bikes offers a wide range of bike plans that are as cheap as $4/ month for those who have Medicaid
or EBT benefits.
Always check your bike to make sure it is safe to ride before you begin commuting. It is recommended to do an ABC
Quick check. Before bicycling check your Air pressure in tires, that Brakes are working properly, Chain and Cranks,
and all quick release levers associated with wheels and seat. It is a process that takes a short amount of time and
can save lives. Also make sure to have a properly fitting bike helmet.
When commuting, it is important to have comfortable, breathable clothing for commuting. Consider bringing a
change of clothes for your workplace. Have clothing and gear for all types of weather. There are waterproof bags
and ponchos made specifically for bicycling. Other tools and items that can be helpful are water, a hand pump, bike
tools, patch kits, and a small first aid kit.
Make sure you have a secure place to lock up your bike. If you have an employer, ask them about indoor bike
storage. If you are the owner of a business, Bike Easy has a discount bike rack program (For more information, click
here). If you do keep your bicycle outside, it is important to make sure it is properly secured and does not obstruct
walkways.
While riding your bike to work, it is important to be predictable by using signals to allow others to understand your
intent in traffic. Knowing safety drills and maneuvers, such as the quick stop, are important ways to protect yourself
from crashes. Remember to always scan before changing lanes and yield to faster traffic.
Predictability largely depends on knowing your route and where you are going. Plan by mapping out your ideal route
for commuting to work such as choosing less trafficked streets or directions that include bike infrastructure like
shared paths and protected lanes. Please click here to check out Bike Easy’s online bike map!
It is also important to know the laws that protect and govern people on bikes. Louisiana law for instance states that
people in motorized vehicles must give people on bikes at least three feet of room when passing and that a person
must have a rear red and front white bike light when riding at night. For more information on bike law in Louisiana,
click here.
Lastly, it is never too late for you or your workplace to participate in Bike Easy’s April Challenge! Log the distance of
rides and become eligible for prizes. Getting a late start with the April Challenge? No problem, riders can backlog
previous rides that they have completed throughout the month.
Register for the April Challenge today!
See you out in the streets!
