Across the country, May is recognized as “Bike Month”and Bike to Work (or school) week will begin on Monday, May 11, and will end on Friday, May 15.

How often do we get the chance to get outside, exercise and experience your town while pedaling a bike? You’ll save money at the pump, and can you think of a healthier, more economical and environmentally savvy way to reduce your fueling costs?

How can you get involved?

• Make it a family event. Encourage your parents to bike to work while you bike to school.
• Organize a car vs. bus vs. bike commuter race. Motorists, bus passengers and cyclists all start and end the morning rush hour at the same spots, but may take distinctly different routs. Allegedly, the bicyclist always wins.
• Does your town have a map of bike-friendly routes in the area? If not, create one!

No matter what you decide, be sure you’re safe.

• Dress and gear up for the weather and other conditions. Take lots of water in hot weather and wear layers in cooler weather. Buy lights that meet visibility requirements if you plan to ride in the dark or during dawn or dusk. And always wear your helmet!
• Wear the appropriate gear, i.e. a helmet.
• Be familiar with the bicycle laws in your area.
• Is your neighborhood bike friendly? Consider traffic flow, the width of road shoulders, blind curves and hills, etc. Consider how you can make your commute the most safe and comfortable for yourself?
• Get to know safe pedestrian and bicycle routes in the area. If you’re not sure of the best route, ask a regular cyclist.
• Assess whether your school (or job) offers the following incentives and prepare accordingly:
• Bike racks, showers, or lockers
• Flex-time to accommodate biking/walking schedules
• Secure bicycle parking