May is National Bike Month. Bikes are an alternative mode of transportation that can be better for the environment! Whether you’re going on a nice leisurely bike ride, or riding to work or school on your commute, there are a few things you need to consider when it comes to safety. In this week’s Virginia Square Plaza Blog, we’ve got a few tips for you on how you can stay safe while riding your bike during National Bike Month!
Getting the Right Bike
An important part of biking is to make sure that you invest in a bike that can handle the type of cycling you want to do, whether it’s commuting, riding trails, or a nice ride in the park. We suggest going to your local bike shop to find the bike you’re looking for. These shops are a great resource for any questions you have or if you need information on the type of bike that would be perfect for your needs.
Gear Up
Once you’ve gotten the bicycle of your dreams, the next thing you need to do is make sure you’re safe while out on your ride. Invest in some protective gear like helmets, elbow pads, and knee pads to keep yourself safe from nasty scrapes and unexpected crashes. It’s also wise to invest in equipment like a bicycle pump, a spare tube for your tires, and a multi-tool set in case you run into unexpected maintenance issues. When you’ve geared up appropriately, you’re ready for anything Mother Nature has to throw at you!
Maintenance
After you’ve purchased your bicycle and have taken it for a spin, you’re going to want to take care of it to ensure longevity and safety. Bike maintenance is an involved process, but bicycling.com has a list of 101 maintenance tips that everyone should know. If you’re ever unsure about what to do, take your bike in to the closest bike shop and have an expert take a look at it. Keep your bike well-maintained to ensure you’re safe on the roads and trails you choose to ride.
Do you have any bike tips? Share them with our Arlington, VA apartment community!