Bicycling is a fun and healthy alternative to driving alone. Whether you’re fit or working to get fit, bicycling can be a great option for getting to work, the store, a friend's house, or any destination that suits your schedule and ability. Although some people bike as far as 20 miles in one trip, most riders steer toward a commute of 5 miles or less.

The Right Wheels

The first thing you should think about is finding the right bike that best fits your needs. Bike selection is critical to your comfort, safety, and enjoyment. Be sure to take the time to shop around for the best choice. Your local bike shop is a good place to start. They have the knowledge and expertise to help you find the right bike type and fit.

Gearing Up

Beyond the bike, there are other items you should consider. Must haves include:

• Helmet: Don’t leave home without one. In the event of an accident, a helmet can reduce the severity of an injury or save your life. When buying a helmet, make sure it fits properly. This site has helpful tips on finding a helmet that fits.
• Headlights & Taillights: Headlights and a red reflector taillight are required by law when traveling at night. Nevertheless, a full working taillight is worth the extra cost when it comes to safety.
• Bike Lock: The best types of bike locks are U-locks and cable locks. U-locks are the strongest and most theft-resistant, but they can be heavy and inflexible. Cable-locks can offer more flexibility and are lighter weight, but they are also less secure.

Other items to consider include: Storage Bags (How will you safely carry items you’ll need at your destination?); Clothing (Many people are comfortable riding in regular clothing. Others prefer speciality bike attire and change into their fresh regular clothes after arriving at the destination); Fenders; mirrors; specialized tires; etc. All can improve your ride and safety. The choices depend on you preferences and budget.

Mapping Your Route

First rule: Remember that you are not limited by the route you would normally take in your car. In some cases, the fastest, easiest, and safest route may actually be the route you usually drive. Many times, however, alternative routes can be safer, have less traffic, and save you time. Think outside the car when planning your best bike route.

Safety First

• Always wear your helmet.
• Stay off of the sidewalk: Although the sidewalk may seem like the safest place, it is actually more dangerous than riding on the road.
• Keep your bicycle in good working condition: Inspect your brakes, tires, pedals, seats, and handlebars regularly.
• Obey traffic laws: Find a summary of local and state bicycle laws here.
• Be Visible: Ride in the travel or bike lane, try to wear bright clothing, and use headlights and taillights when riding at night.
• Be Predictable: Ride your bicycle in a steady line. This helps oncoming and/or overtaking drivers to better anticipate your travel path.
• Communicate: Use the proper hand signals when turning and slowing down, and make eye contact with drivers.

Combining Your Trip with Transit

Adding transit to your bike ride can be a helpful option if your trip is particularly long or if a portion of your route may not be safe or comfortable. All C-TRAN and TriMet buses are equipped with bicycle racks, available on a first-come, first-served basis. C-TRAN requires a usage agreement, renewable every six months, and a refundable $25 security deposit. For more information, call 695-0123 or e-mail ctran@c-tran.com.

Bicycling Resources

If you are thinking about starting to ride your bike to work, or already do so but are looking for more information, a lot of resources available for you.  The City of Vancouver has a 26-page "Bike Guide" that will give you more detail on what you need to know to start riding to work or using your bicycle for other trips.  A two-sided bicycle resource card is also available with important contact information.  By doing a little research you can ensure you have the best ride possible.