Before Your Commute

You have the bike, you have the equipment, and you are ready to begin bicycle commuting! Make sure you do these things before your first day commuting so that everything goes smoothly. Start planning early for your commute. Bike to Work Week is only a few weeks away and if you want to start a commute that week, get started now!

One Month Before

• Get support from your family and friends. Let them know why you want to bicycle commute and tell them about the benefits it will give you. Encourage them to try and start their own commute when you do.

 One Week Before

• Plan your Route

  • The route you take by bike will probably be different than the one you normally take in a car. If possible choose roads with a bike lane, if not try to find roads with wide outside lanes or paved shoulders. Try two test runs on the route you have planned. One when there isn't as much traffic such as during the weekend, then another time when there is more traffic. During that second run you will be able to determine about how long your commute will take. You'll also figure out any potential problems with biking in traffic and fix them ahead of time.

• Inform your employer

  • Tell your employer you are beginning a bicycle commute. Work with them to find a good location to park your bicycle.

• Check your bike

  • Before you can commute, your bicycle needs to work. Check that all the mechanical parts are working well and check that it is comfortable and adjusted properly for you to ride. If you need to get a helmet do so. If you'll be riding at night install a light.

• Check the Weather

  • Find out the weather forecast for the next week. Be prepared for the possibilities.

One Day Before

• Prepare your clothing

  • Make sure your helmet is a comfortable fit. Prepare comfortable clothing to ride in. If you have a formal attire workplace either pack a bag with your clothes the night before, or take in your outfit for the next day and store it at work. Take a few toiletry items to put in your desk so you can freshen up after your commute.

• Check your Tires

  • Check your tires to make sure they are properly inflated. Pump them up if needed, low pressure tires will make riding difficult.

• Check the Weather

  • Check the weather again. Be prepared for whatever the forecast says. 

Commuting Day!

• Eat!

  • Have a good breakfast before your commute. You'll need the energy on your ride.

• Start Early

  • Remember that approximate time you got from your test rides? Leave yourself a little more time so you can be sure to make it to work on time.