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Bike commuting 101: Tips to get you rolling

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BY HILARY KINDSCHUH / Lincoln Journal Star

Thursday, Aug 21, 2008 - 01:06:58 am CDT

Imagine how much money you could save if you didn’t have to gas up your car every week.

Mark Janike rides his bike daily, and he estimates he saves $25 or more a week on his daily commute to his job at a downtown bicycle shop.

“It’s just money that would be going toward gas,” said Janike, who works at Monkey Wrench Cycles. “It obviously makes sense.”

Story Photo
Mark Janike, bicycle rider for 26 years, offers advice for Lincolnites wanting to bike commute to work or class this fall. (Cody Duty)

Related Link(s):


Guide to Lincoln's bike trails
Tips for bike commuters
Department of Roads biking information

Monkey Wrench is seeing more new bikers and people who haven’t ridden their bikes in a long time, and gas prices are mentioned by customers at least once or twice a day, Janike said.

Those who are hopping on a bike for the first time in years will probably notice commuting by bicycle is a little different than the days of riding your bike to the pool.

If you’re thinking of riding to work or classes this fall, we’re here to help.

Janike offered some tips for new bikers and those of us who are as rusty as a bike left out behind the shed in the rain.

Thanks also to the Nebraska Department of Roads and other Web sites for tips and information.

Riding

- “Constantly be aware of your surroundings,” Janike said. “Never assume a car is going to stop for you or that you have the right of way.”

- Downtown, bikers must ride in the streets — not on sidewalks. Use the bike lanes on 11th and 14th streets. And when riding on any street, abide by the same traffic laws as drivers.

- If possible, try to avoid streets. Lincoln has good bike trails, Janike said. Side streets also are better than main roads. Consider choosing a safer route over a shorter or faster route.

“You’re not going to want to do your leisurely morning commute down O Street,” Janike said.

To find a bike route using Lincoln’s trails: The Great Plains Trails Network has maps at gptn.org/maps.htm.

- Always yield to pedestrians, even on bike trails. “Use bells or verbally let them know you’re approaching,” Janike said.

- Ride on the right side of the road and pass on the left.

- Front and rear lights are required at night. Outfit your bike with red reflectors on the back and reflectors on the pedals (or on your shoes).

- Use hand signals. A refresher: To signify a left turn, stick your left arm straight out from your shoulder. For a right turn, keep your upper arm there, but raise your forearm straight up, as if you’re going to wave at someone. Motion slowing down or stopping by dropping your forearm toward the ground.

- Wear brightly colored clothes.

- Try not to ride alone, especially in the early morning or late at night.

- Be alert for hazards on streets and trails, such as tall weeds, broken sidewalks or pavement, animals in your way, etc.

Maintenance

- If you’re commuting by bike regularly, get a tuneup at least once every six months — every three months if you commute in the winter. You can get an extensive tuneup for about $50, Janike said.

“I don’t know what you can do to a car for $50,” he said.

- Lube your chain every week or two if you ride daily.

- Replace your chain every so often. It costs about $20, Janike said.

Choosing a bike

- “Make sure you have a bike that fits you,” Janike said. “It’s a common mistake to get a bike that’s too big or too small.”

- If you’re buying a new bike, it’s worth spending a little extra money on an entry-level or moderate bike because the cheapest bike might have more issues, Janike said. You can find a good bike for $300 or less, he said.

Biking accessories

- Some bikers like to have fenders to protect their wheels from mud and rain.

- A basket in front or rack in the back is helpful for carrying a bag.

- Ankle straps can keep long pants from getting caught in the bike.

- Don’t forget water: You’ll want to stay hydrated.

- Mirrors. These make sharing the road with cars a bit safer.

- Locks. Protect your investment at your home and at work or on campus.

Reach Hilary Kindschuh at 473-7120 or hkindschuh@journalstar.com.


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Its true wrote on August 21, 2008 3:59 am:
" Yes most of what is said is true. But....I have been hit by a car that was NOT paying attention. There needs to be SOMETHING in this town to educate the drivers just a little bit.

As for this statement...."Some bikers like to have fenders to protect their wheels from mud and rain." That's not quite right. The fenders do little to protect the wheel. They are there to help keep YOU a little drier when forced to go through puddles or ride in the rain.

And to all those people that I see out in the very early morning or late at night without lights........it IS a city ordinance to have them. The police need to write a few citations to get this point across. Instead of simply worrying about those that ride on the downtown sidewalks.

Over the years I have seen the bicycle police all over downtown. BUT.....I have NEVER, and I'll say it again, NEVER seen a bicycle officer simply cruising the bike paths. They ALWAYS seem to be in the downtown area. "

 JT wrote on August 21, 2008 8:01 am:
" Great ideas all, I would tack on that it's incredibly helpful to ride with clips on your pedals and shoes. Using the complete motion of the pedal rather than just pushing down is way more efficient and makes everything a lot easier. "

 Commuter wrote on August 21, 2008 8:25 am:
" Can you do a story or a least a little blurb about the construction on the bike path near Lincoln High? They put a parking lot through the middle of the old trail and it doesn't appear that they are making plans to put a path back in. That's a major commuter route! And why are all the under-street bypasses closed? "

 willy jo wrote on August 21, 2008 8:43 am:
" you forgot to mention to shave yer legs for proper arrow die-namics. "

 Barbara wrote on August 21, 2008 9:07 am:
" Avoid streets? There's no reason to do that. Plenty of streets are just fine for riding, and it is perfectly legal to do so on any street in Lincoln. I have seen cyclists on O Street, as well as 48th, and 27th. Those are a bit busy, and I don't want to be sitting in exhaust, but it's certainly doable. The more motorists see cyclists on normal city streets, the more they will get used to our presence. That is when motorists will understand that yes, bicycles DO belong in the road. Stay off the sidewalks! That's the most dangerous place you can ride. "

 Outside the Box wrote on August 21, 2008 9:30 am:
" I agree. The purpose of fenders is not for the tire, it's to avoid an "inverted skunk" stripe up your back after riding through a wet area.

If you're going to ride in your work clothes, the ankle straps will keep your cuffs from getting greased.

Spent $20 on front and rear lights: if you are riding late, it's vital to see and be seen. Reflectors just don't cut it.

Also, it's a good idea to do a couple test runs: figure out how long it will take to get there - and how hot and sweaty you'll be when you arrive. Just because you can make it to work in 10 minutes doesn't mean you should - especially if you arrive soaking wet. "

 CS wrote on August 21, 2008 9:44 am:
" Maybe, but for non-regular commuters, or recreational riders, asking them to spend 80.00 on shoes, 50.00+ on pedals, and then run the risk of getting clipped in and not being able to get out in time due to inexperience isn't exactly practical. Most people in LIncoln are not going to be riding the distance to warrant clipped pedals. "

 apartment dweller wrote on August 21, 2008 9:45 am:
" Is there anything one can do to keep the chain from getting rusty if one must store their bike outside? "

 Troy wrote on August 21, 2008 9:46 am:
" JT, I have an issue with your clip comment. For a new biker I would not recommend using them. They take a little bit to get used to them and if you don't realize you have them on and try to get off the bike for a quick stop you fall over. At least that is what I found with my toe cages! "

 trails wrote on August 21, 2008 10:16 am:
" most of the under passes were closed because of spring rains. The only one that I am aware of that is still closed would be the one on the bossallis trail along hwy 2 and 40th streets and that has been closed for a while. "

 mike wrote on August 21, 2008 10:19 am:
" you wont see me riding down 27th street. Sure it raises awareness but it also makes drivers angry and they are in cars and I am not. "

 daily bike commuter wrote on August 21, 2008 10:31 am:
" commuter--there is a plan in place to put the trail near capitol parkway and J streets back. The work is connected to the Antelope Creek project happening in that area, so it might not be finished for a while. If I remember right, the new part of the trail will go underneath J St, and then continue a similar path toward downtown. It will be somewhat east of the original path, though.

There will also be a new section of trail that will cut through the Lincoln High area and head west in the coming few years. "

 CS wrote on August 21, 2008 10:32 am:
" fastidious chain lubing and drying it, then lubing it after a rain, along with your cables, housings, and derailleur.Chain lube is pretty cheap-that and an old towel should take care of you fine. "

 bike ryda wrote on August 21, 2008 10:37 am:
" Commuter: The Antelope Valley Project construction by Lincoln High will have a trail, but it will be behind the ball fields, not in front where it was previously. Go to http://www.lincoln.ne.gov/city/pworks/projects/antelope/pdf/phase1.pdf to see the plan. You are right about the underpass at 27th and Normal -- that should not be closed for this long of time. The city needs to get it fixed.

There are plenty of bikers that just go around the barricade and I don't blame them. As a major commuter route, the City has taken way too long to get it fixed. "

 JC Koto wrote on August 21, 2008 10:42 am:
" To Commuter: The underpasses are still closed from the rains last May and June when they were dangerous due to flooding and slick silt-mud. I don't know why they're still closed, but I do know that the 27th & Capitol Pkwy underpass is reasonably safe now. At least as safe as it was before it was closed. I just tested it today. The lights in that tunnel do seem dimmer than I remember though.

As for the Billy Wolf trail being closed between Randolph and N st, I believe there will be a new portion of trail installed, but at this rate it will be a while. For now, one can take 25th street between N and Randolph. "

 daily bike commuter wrote on August 21, 2008 10:52 am:
" Another thing to consider if anyone is in the bike shopping phase--if you're looking for a solid commuting bike and you want to be riding instead of doing a lot of bike maintenance, consider bikes with internally geared hubs (IGHs) instead of the usual derailers. The gears are inside the rear wheel's hub instead of being exposed to the elements on these bikes, so they'll go through ice/snow/rain conditions needed a lot less upkeep. These kinds of bikes can also have chainguards to minimize having to worry about keeping your pant legs away from the chain and chainrings. The chain itself will last longer on IGH equipped bikes, too, because it isn't being stretched out as it's swapped between different cogs and chainrings.

The only downsides are that the IGH bikes are generally not quite as fast, have fewer gearing options, and changing the back tire can take slightly longer. But for daily commuting with minimal worries, they're great! "

 Tom wrote on August 21, 2008 10:53 am:
" To willy jo- Hey I shave my legs, but to shave them for aerodynamic reasons is a farce. The main reason legs are shaved is to clean up cuts and road-rash easier. Also the main reason, and you'll find this checking on other bike forums, is to show off muscle definition. If you ride two hours a day, five days a week, you legs will be in pretty good shape. "

 Scott wrote on August 21, 2008 10:56 am:
" Thank goodness you aren't one of those people who want us to wear a helmet everywhere. I didn't see that mentioned in the article anywhere. "

 Question wrote on August 21, 2008 11:39 am:
" I would like to ride my bike to work but live on the opposite side of town. Therefore by the time im at work im all sweaty...do all your jobs have a shower on site? Mine does not, any suggestions? "

 willy jo wrote on August 21, 2008 12:05 pm:
" too tom

you have 2 main reesons? my favorite is yer second one.

i think i've passed you a couple of times on the trails because i shave my legs for the arrow-dynamics. i have to admit i only ride a couple times a week & my legs aren't as Arnold as yours but good enough to blow by you at speeds of 12 to 13 mph. "

 CS wrote on August 21, 2008 12:08 pm:
" Nope- I shower before I go, I use antiperspirant before I ride and after(at least 18-20% active ingredient). I take a 'sink bath' and use soap mixed with witch hazel (neutralizes bacteria) cool down for 10-15 minutes since i'm there early, and the change into business attire. When I bike I wear wicking shirts and shorts that breath so im not that sweaty when I get there after 6 miles or so. I can make it in about 28-30 minutes depending on how long I have to wait at crossings and stoplights that don't register that i'm there. "

 Tom wrote on August 21, 2008 12:33 pm:
" The underpass at 48th, near Hwy 2, is open. I saw it yesterday. "

 Rob wrote on August 21, 2008 12:40 pm:
" Monkey Wrench is the best place in town to get your bike fixed.

If you want it done properly, fast, and at a decent price... the guys at MW are the ones to see. They love biking as much as anybody, and it shows in their quality of work.

This isn't a commercial for Monkey Wrench Cycles, this is just personal experience. I've been to all of them in Lincoln, and MW stands head and shoulders above the other shops in town.

If the other shops read this, don't take it as a insult... just go down to MWC and see how they do it, so you can all improve your service. "

 bike ryda wrote on August 21, 2008 1:15 pm:
" JC Koto: The reason the underpass at 27th and Normal is barricaded is because there is a large chunk of pavement cracking/eroding on the south ramp. I'm sure the underpass it's barricaded due to a safety/liability issue with the city. Other than that one spot, the underpass is perfectly rideable. I called the park and rec a month ago to ask about it and was told it would be some time before it was fixed. Not sure why it takes this long to fix one of if not THE busiest bike commuter section in the city. "

 Outside the Box wrote on August 21, 2008 1:54 pm:
" Scott - I think helmets weren't mentioned because it's a given. While I'm a pretty good and cautious rider, if I get up close and personal with a vehicle I will lose. Your helmet is the difference between a headache and a tombstone.

To Question - no showers at my job. I try to ride slowly (to avoid getting too sweaty) and the bike has stayed home during the hot and humid months. Otherwise, you can change and get cleaned up fairly well in the bathroom. "

 Brock Landers wrote on August 21, 2008 1:55 pm:
" Wet wipes and a change of clothes might do in a pinch if there is no shower. Maybe just try going all smelly and gross for a couple of weeks; maybe the boss will spring for a shower! If not and you get fired, just think of all the bike time you will get! "

 dish wrote on August 21, 2008 1:58 pm:
" shaving your legs also makes removing dried dirt clots less painful. "

 Brian wrote on August 21, 2008 3:04 pm:
" Good article.

I ride to work all year round. I love it.

I used to drive to work at UNL, but the parking enforcement people would give me tickets for stupid reasons and every year I'd have to go defend myself in front of the traffic board, despite having a valid permit that cost me almost $500 a year.

Since I've been riding everyday, there's no cost for parking and I haven't had to go prove my innocence once. "

 AD - Bike racks on City Bus wrote on August 21, 2008 3:32 pm:
" PLEASE add bike racks to the City bus - I could ride the bus to work without getting sweaty and ride my bike home, or even bus half way. "

 daily bike commuter wrote on August 21, 2008 3:45 pm:
" I agree with Rob. I've done business with every bike shop in town, and though I haven't had a _bad_ experience with any of them, Monkey Wrench is by far my favorite. Re-Cycled is my second favorite for all of the funky stuff they carry, but MW has the best mechanics in town. "

 ta wrote on August 21, 2008 6:22 pm:
" Lincoln needs to get bike racks on the busses. Get with the program Lincoln. Maybe one of the City councel members could sell them to the city. Then we might get them. "

 Soo Foo wrote on August 21, 2008 8:04 pm:
" I have been riding my bike to work since the beginning of May. It is almost 6.5 miles one way and I can usually ride it in 30 minutes. I don't have toe clips because I was afraid I wouldn't be able to get my feet on the ground fast if I needed to; I had fenders added to keep my back clean and a rack to help carry my lunch and change of clothes (wearing a backpack gets too hot and an odometer so I can see how far I have left to go and what time it is.Oh, yeah, I ride to work in Sioux Falls, SD, and our busses have bike racks. They are very easy to use. I have found that it takes me the same amount of time to ride my bike to the bus station, and ride the bus to work as it does to ride my bike to work.The bonus is I get an hour of cardio that I wouldn't get riding the bus and I save $2.
If I get too sweaty I can go to the YW to shower and there is another 'green' business in town that has showers for bike commuters to use.Otherwise, I take a shower in the AM so I don't get too smelly because the sweat is clean. I do towel off when I change into my work clothes - I too have time to do this because I get there early enough.
The reason I thought to post a comment was mostly because SF is considerably smaller than Lincoln but we still have the same issues about a bike commute only we have bike racks on the bus. "

 ELLIE wrote on August 21, 2008 9:29 pm:
" The men at MWC are top notch mechanics. They have and will continue to tune my bike. Plus they are downtown. Keep up the good work!! Everyone should ride to work. Keep your wheels moving forward. "

 HJ wrote on August 21, 2008 11:58 pm:
" Please do not let helmet Nazis keep you from riding if you do not wish to wear a helmet. The health risks of inactivity and obesity far outweigh the relatively minimal risk of head injury. Now, that's not to say I encourage riding without a helmet, just be aware that the benefits of biking are huge compared to the risks incurred by taking a safe and conscientious bike ride. "

 daily bike commuter wrote on August 22, 2008 7:40 am:
" I think worrying about the bus rack situation and getting ultra sweaty commuting in Lincoln is overrated. Lincoln is 75.4 square miles in area, well under 10 miles in any direction. If you take your time on any bike trip under 10 miles, it's really not a serious matter of getting sweaty, and you also won't really save much time or energy stopping to put a bike on a bus halfway considering the relatively short distance. Try it, and you'll see--it's not really the big deal that all of the "why not" excuses might make you think. "

 Matt G wrote on August 22, 2008 8:50 am:
" Commuting miles are one of the main reasons I'm the top endurance racer in the Midwest. Now we just need to have the city build more jumps off the trail to increase the fun factor. "

 Comment wrote on August 22, 2008 1:00 pm:
" MW does provide good mechanical service but their customer service lacks. The few times i have been there they seem to be bothered even when not busy. "

 Monkey Wrench.... wrote on August 22, 2008 2:20 pm:
" It would seem that I am on the same page with at least ONE other person. I was shopping for a new ride and went to MW figuring I could check out the Konas' and possibly take one for a quick spin. But they DID seem a bit too bothered to even take one out of the rack.

That said, I know that they do EXCELLENT work as mechanics. But the customer service when someone is in the market is a bit lacking. "

 Monkey Wrench.... wrote on August 22, 2008 2:24 pm:
" And this seems like it's a LOT of banter about Monker Wrench. There are a few other decent shops around town. The New and Used bike shop on North Cotner provides great service, a decent atmosphere, and, occasionally, a cup of coffee offered in the morning.

Bike Pedalers on 33rd and B streets seems to have become too specialized for my personal tastes.

As for Blues and Scheels.....well...they are all a bit TOO sterile for me. And, in regards to Scheels...do you REALLY want some guy working on your bike that has more of an interest in putting together fishing reels???? "

 Cam Chambers in KC wrote on August 22, 2008 3:44 pm:
" I agree with Matt G, commuting is an excellent way to stay in shape and get faster on a bike. It helped me win a 24 Hour National Mountain Bike Title a couple of years ago and it also helps keep me on the top of the podium in the Midwest Endurance races. "

 Hollister wrote on August 24, 2008 12:57 am:
" First and foremost, buy GREAT tires. Michelins and Continentals ride fine and turn most thorns. My last set of Michelins lasted about 2000 miles. "

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