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Bicycles Are Transportation

 

Getting Started

If you already know how to ride, all you need is a bicycle.

The Route

Learning a good, safe route will be key to the quality of your commute. Although it is legal to ride on nearly every roadway (except interstates or prohibited streets, such as in business districts), many bicyclists prefer riding on on- or off-street bikeways, trails, or streets with lower speed limits or less traffic. Scenery, lighting and stops along the way are also things to consider.

For a new bicycle commuter, joining the regional Bike2Benefits program is a good way to get started. You provide a starting intersection and your destination and an experienced commuter will provide you with a suggested route with the beginner in mind. You can learn more about this free program and sign up at bike2benefits.org.

Develop a route to your own liking by researching different ways of getting to your workplace. Note the streets bicycle commuters use and which might best meet your needs. Maybe one route is better on the way to your destination and another is better on the way home. To get comfortable with the timing and feel of the route (and to make sure that you are able to enjoyably riding it), practice pedaling on a weekend or during low-traffic periods.

Other resources for navigation include free bicycle maps for some metro-area counties and cities and even neighborhoods.

The Law

The Minnesota Department of Transportation’s Share the Road campaign distills much of Minnesota bicycle law and guidelines into eight simple points:

    1. Bicyclists may ride on all Minnesota roads, except where restricted.

    2. Bicyclists should ride on the road, and must ride in the same direction as traffic.

    3. Motorists must at all times maintain a three-foot clearance when passing a bicyclist.

    4. Bicyclists must obey all traffic control signs and signals, just as motorists.

    5. Motorists and bicyclists must yield the right-of-way to each other.

    6. Bicyclists should signal their turns and should ride in a predictable manner.

    7. Lights and reflectors are required at night.

    8. Bicyclists should always wear helmets.

Sharetheroadmn.org is a great resource for more in-depth information on these points or read the law itself.

The Gear

If you are buying a new bicycle, resurrecting an old one or having one modified for commuting, talk with the staff at local bike shops, find someone you like and ask lots of questions. The right sizing and fit are very important - many styles of bicycles are available, and not all are designed for the types of riding you're interested in.

You may have seen advanced bicycle commuters with very specialized gear. You may find that some of these things are handy for you too, but you really don’t need any of them to get started. Here are some basic considerations:

Safety
Although the law does not require that you wear a helmet, it can be the difference between life and death in an accident. Reflectors and lights are required for nighttime or poor weather riding. Light-colored, bright or reflective clothing makes you more visible to motorists. A mirror can also improve your traffic awareness. Use special caution riding at dusk, as this is the most dangerous time for bicyclists.

Security
You’ll want a good lock (or locks) to protect your bicycle. Even if you can store it indoors or in a garage, it’s still a good idea to lock it to something. Combining a U-lock and a cable lock provides extra protection. Lockers are available for rental through Metro Transit, the City of Minneapolis, the University of Minnesota and some metro-area employers as well.

Comfort
Shoes and clothing can make a big difference in how your ride feels. Dressing for the weather and in removable layers allows you to adapt to conditions throughout the day. Fenders keep roadway water and grime from spraying you.

Cargo
There are many ways to bring things with you. A backpack works, but can be uncomfortable on longer rides. Racks and bags (such as messenger bags or panniers) can be used to carry loads more comfortably. Bottles and cages are helpful for carrying liquids.

Back-up plans
Carry change for a phone call or transit fare. Bring a cell phone. Join the Guaranteed Ride Home program. Learning how to fix a flat tire and carrying a spare tube and patch kit can get you moving again quickly – many local shops provide sessions that teach this simple skill. There are also many step-by-step resources online or ask another rider for a demo.