Mid-Michigan Environmental Action Council

An excellent resource on bicycle commuting is the Bike Commuter Manual (PDF), developed by Shimano
and the League of American Bicyclists (click here to download).

Below are the Smart Commute '06 recommended steps for preparing to Smart Commute, which is largely a
compiliation of information from other sources such as the Leauge of American Bicyclists, League of
Michigan Bicyclists, and other Smart Commute resources.

2. Make sure you have the equipment, supplies, and attire you will need to be comfortable.

**Click here for a link to the bike-to-work website, which gives a great list of the different kinds of bicycles
available.

Other accessories and supplies:
- Helmet. A must-have. Helmets are getting more and more lightweight and stylish, so there's no excuse.
Protect your brain. ($30-$160)

- Tire Fixing Tools. If you ever get a flat while you're out, you'll need to have a patch kit ($5), a spare inner tube
($5), and a frame pump ($15-$60) with you. Keep your patch kit and tube in a seatbag for easy storage ($15).

- Backpack and/or bike messenger bag. ($15-$60). Great for transporting the things you need for your work
day. If you attach a rear rack to your bike, you can attach your bag to a rack rather than wear it.

- Bike Clothes. Shorts and skorts with the built-in padded chamois liner can make your ride more comfy.
Moisture-wicking fabrics help keep your warm and dry. A set of waterproof pants and rain jacket are good for
rainy days. ($30-$100)

When the weather is hot: being on a bike can be much more comfortable than driving, because the open air
and breeze will keep you cool.

When the weather is cold: moving will keep you warmer than you think. Wear a cap or ear warmers under
your helmet. Wear light layers so that you can remove layers in case you get too warm.

- Bottles and Cages. To attach water bottles to your bike ($10).

- Gloves. Palm padding cushions your hands and protects your skin. ($10-$40)

- Floor Pump. Having a floor pump with a guage to keep at home is a good idea. ($15-$60)

- Bike Lock. You'll need a good one to keep your bike from "riding off" while you're working. A U-Lock made of
strong metal is your best bet.

1. Create a smart commuting plan that will work for your situation.

If you would like to bicycle commute but are concerned that it may be too far, try the following:

** Bike one way and take your bike on transit the other way. You can put your bike on the rack on the front of
the bus. Visit www.cata.org for bus route info.

** Start from a park-n-ride, bus stop, or other parking area and bicycling a portion of your commute.

** Build up to longer distances by riding your route both on weekends and during peak traffic periods and
adjust your pace and schedule accordingly. Start slow and build yourself up to a faster pace over time.

As a rule of thumb, if you can walk a mile, you can easily pedal five. Most people, even when they're not in
top shape, can walk three miles (= ability to pedal 15 miles).

Not sure about safe bicycling routes to and from your workplace? Check out the routes section of this
website for low-traffic, pleasant routes to downtown Lansing and MSU from Haslett, Okemos, Holt, Delta
Township, South Lansing, East Lansing, and other areas. Click here for routes.

Also check out the Tri-County Bicycle Association's Crosstown Maps.

4. Tips and tricks on maintaining a stunning appearance and non-offensive smell while Smart
Commuting.

** Start as a fair weather bike-commuter. Keep rain gear at work so that if there is a turn, you will have the
spare (brightly colored) protection. Or, put your bike on a city bus and take the bus home.

**Save race speeds for the trip home!

** Stay cool: most mornings are cool enough to keep you from getting too sweaty. Also use waterproof and
breathable fabrics.

** Keep baby wipes, deodorant, witch hazel, and talcum powder at your office in case you need to freshen
up. These will all prevent body odor if you've worked up a sweat on your way to work.

** Wear more athletic clothing during your commute and change at work. Keep sport coats/jackets and
dress shoes in the office. Bring clean shirt/slacks/skirts in your rack bag. Or bring clothes to the office on
non-riding days.

3. Understand bicycle safety information and bicycle commuter responsibilities according to traffic
laws. The most comprehensive guide for this information comes from the Leauge of Michigan Bicyclist's
booklet, What Every Michigan Bicyclists Should Know. To obtain a copy, contact us or contact the LMB at
517-334-9100, office@lmb.org.

We have also compiled a list of basic bicycling safety information (click here) for your use.