Spring? Maybe.

It's like clockwork. That first warm day of the season, everyone drags out that dusty, cobweb-covered bicycle from the basement, and runs to the nearest bike shop to get the tires pumped up. Cabin fever: especially in evidence this year during this temperamental spring season! It makes folks want to get out and experience the joy and freedom, and often the best way to experience it is on that old trusty bicycle.

Bikes Belong has launched the new "Remember Me?" campaign. I've seen it on a bus stop or two. Have you?

Whether it's a rickety three-speed, or a sleek urban bike, it will get you from point A to point B quickly, easily, and often pleasurably. You don't need any special equipment - with a comfortable pair of shoes, easy-fitting pants, sweatshirt and a backpack, you can ride to the coffee shop, bookstore or post office, and pick up a few groceries on the way back. It's so convenient that next thing you know, you'll be using it for all your errands.

In fact, if you are like many regular patrons of Rapid Transit Cycleshop, you may forgo the car or bus, and rely on the bicycle for getting around Chicago. Over the past couple of seasons, we have experienced a boom in the number of bike commuters we serve. Day in and day out cyclists come into our store with accounts of their urban travels. And hardly a day goes by without someone coming in eager to start using a bicycle for transportation.

If you are a bicycle commuter, or you'd like to join their ranks, take a long, hard look at your bicycle. Is the type of bike suitable for the type of commute you're planning? Consider the distance you'll be traveling. If you're only going one of two miles, almost any bike will do. For distances over five miles, you may want a lighter, faster bike; however, we've seen people take one speed cruisers to and from 118th street.

Although some drivers have a disdainful attitude toward cyclists on the road, most are cautious and respectful. The safety of your commute will depend largely on you. When you cycle on city streets, you bicycle becomes a vehicle which is governed by the same laws as a car. That means obeying traffic signals and moving in the direction of traffic. Common sense and courtesy also go a long way in making your commute safe and pleasant.

We strongly encourage all cyclists to wear a helmet when riding a bicycle. Besides that, you don't need to rush out and spend a bundle on expensive bicycle accessories, but a few well-chosen items will make you commute more efficient and comfortable. If you need to leave you bicycle unattended, invest in a high-quality lock and learn to use it correctly (click for more on avoiding bike theft). Good street tires will help you go faster and reduce the incidence of flats. A rack and panniers will take a load of your bag and ensure a more stable ride. Bliking lights and reflectors will make you visible if you're coming home after dark. And we all know the benefits of a comfortable seat.

Whatever type of bike you choose to ride, make sure it is in good repair. Check the condition of the tires, rims and brake pads. See if anything feels worn or loose. Click here for more checkover tips, or bring the bike in for a thorough evaluation, and recommended repairs. We're looking forward to making your ride better this season, and we hope spring finds you in the saddle.

Comments

[aLexi sanger]

i am so glad that you mentioned these bus-stop advertisements. my favorite advertisement is the cruiser with the flowered basket. while i only dreamed of that bike as a child, the advertisement brought back memories of how riding wasn't a chore, but FUN. wind in the hair, streamers flicking across one's wrist, playing cards clicking away speed ... that's what i remember. and that's why i ride.