6 Tips for Philly Bike Commuting

Bike to Work Day was last week, but that doesn’t mean it’s too late to start biking now! Bike commuting not only leads to a healthier lifestyle – it reduces carbon emissions that contribute to global warming.  Plus, as the number one bike commuting city, employers and employees alike should encourage more folk to bike Philly.

Here are 6 tips for Philly bike commuting in the fourth-best bicycling city in the country:

1. Get some lights. A bright headlight and tail light will help drivers see you at night. Don’t assume the driver can see you; make sure they know you’re there. Personally, I sport this headlight and tail light.
2. Bring a change of clothes. If you’re commuting to the office, you might want to change into something less sweaty when you get there. It’s also a smart idea to keep a couple of dress shoes at the office so you won’t have to risk slippery shoes or heels.
3. Be prepared for flats. Bring a patch kit, spare tube, tire levers, pump, and multi-tool with you while you ride – you can store it all in a saddle bag. You never know when you’ll run into trouble!
4. Wear a helmet. This one’s self-explanatory. It’s better to wear one than wish you did! Helmets save lives.
5. Invest in a rear rack and panniers for extra storage space. It’s convenient, particularly if you’re carrying groceries or other necessities. You can pick these up at a local bike shop.
6. Lock up. Philly may be bike-friendly, but that doesn’t mean thieves are. Lock your bike up with a U-lock (around the frame and through the wheel) to make sure it’s there when you get back. The Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia has a video demonstrating proper locking technique.

Have any other tips? Let us know in the comments! Not ready to invest in a new bike? Bike Share is coming soon to Philly, as you can see in our coverage of the recent Boston, Denver, DC & Philly bike share forum!

PHOTO: Hidden City Philadelphia