2022 Bike Commuting: Benefits, Tips, and Gear Recommendations
As many of my readers know, I bike frequently for exercise as well as for transportation for my business. I wanted to share some tips and gear that I use for bike commuting, which is a safe way to travel and maintain social distancing, as well as get fresh air. Although I frequently ride a road bike and a mountain bike outside of work, recently I upgraded my e-bike late last year to my new bike that is faster and goes farther. I use the new e-bike primarily for commuting to meetings and projects, as well as picking up supplies and equipment.
➡️ All my gear: https://kit.co/SARAHSCALACONSULTING
My NEW electric bike is from Specialized. It allows me to ride up to 28 MPH and will go for up to 90 miles on a single charge. Most of my trips into the city are 10 miles or less. The big benefit I have had with riding my Specialized Vado electric bike to meetings, is that I can arrive quickly, without getting all sweaty. This is especially important in the summer season, when it is muggy and hot in New England!
A few new additions to my gear that I made this year include a bike cargo trailer and a handlebar bag. The Burley cargo trailer works well for picking up office supplies, as well as grocery shopping trips. The handlebar bag has been helpful for traveling to meetings, providing space to store a few odds and ends including my bike lock and tablet. Outside of work, I plan to use the trailer for an upcoming 3-day bike-packing trip to Martha’s Vineyard. The trailer will carry all of our camping gear, tent, sleeping bag, clothing, as well as food and cooking supplies!
If you are interested in bike commuting in the future, planning your approach and gear is very important. As my Dad says "plan your work, and work your plan". Planning and preparing for travel is as important as planning for other areas of business, whether you are a business leader or entrepreneur. I often coach excutives and clients about planning, scheduling, and organization. If you need help in this area, let me know!
I primarily ride on bike paths in Boston (like the Charles River Bike Path) or routes that have designated bicycle lanes to ensure my safety. I also always use front and rear lights. For those in the Boston area, I recently joined the Charles River Wheelers bike club, and am enjoying meeting new people, and learning about new routes.
Depending on where I am meeting, many times I am able to bring my bike inside the meeting or a coffee shop. This helps to ensure my bike is secure. When I do need to lock up my bike, I use a hefty Kryptonite bike chain lock! This lock weighs about 15 lbs and the only reason I use a lock of this weight is because with the electric pedal-assist on my bike, I don't really feel the weight of carrying it. There are other types of locks that weigh much less depending on your needs.
When I plan to bike commute into Boston, Cambridge, Belmont, Newton, or Watertown, I always arrive early to ensure I have a place to Lock my bike or am able to bring it inside. Once I'm inside of the building, I take a few minutes to change into business casual clothing. Many of my clients are fascinated with the fact that I bike to meet with them, and I get many questions from both clients and spectators about my bike - particularly that it is electric. Do you have any questions so far? Comment below.
I have a 40 degree biking rule, so I bike when it is above this temperature year-round, as weather allows.
Benefits of Bike commuting to work include:
Great for the environment with a low carbon footprint
Saving money on gas and parking for a car
Promoting my fitness
Opportunity to clear my mind while riding
Quicker than driving (many times I can get to Cambridge or close-by meetings faster than I can drive a car)!
Auto insurance discount (low mileage discount)
Some pieces of equipment and gear I highly recommend for those who bike commute, whether electric or traditional bike include:
Bike Equipment and Accessories:
Bike (my Specialized Turbo Vado 4.0 electric bike has front suspension, disc brakes, fenders, computer, lights, and battery that fits in frame)
Ortlieb Handlebar bag: Waterproof, and locks to the handlebars
Cargo rack (you can also just use a backpack)
Cargo Trunk bag or Panniers (I have used this Topeak Trunk bag for over 15 years- durable, and expandable
Burley Nomad Cargo Trailer: can carry up to 100 lbs, and I barely notice it behind my bike
Lock (I bring this lock only when I need to park outside)
Bell or horn (this bell is very loud and clear!)
Fenders (keeps rain off your behind)
Front and rear bicycle lights (USB chargeable)
Portable Pump or CO2 cartridge
Clothing:
Gear for Work/Meetings:
Let me know if I've missed any items that you typically bring or recommend for bike commuting!
Comment below. Happy riding!
Disclaimer: This very helpful post contains Amazon affiliate links, which means that should you click any of the links and make a purchase, I may get a small commission at absolutely no cost to you.
TELL ME WHAT YOU THINK. WHAT GEAR DO YOU USE FOR BIKE COMMUTING? COMMENT BELOW.
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About the Author:
Sarah Scala is a senior talent management leader and Boston executive coach with 20+ years of experience providing organization development, change management, and leadership development solutions for diverse global and local industries. She is a collaborative consultant, coach, and educator supporting the performance transformation of executives, leaders, and teams. Sarah is a methodical, results-driven leader recognized for helping clients reach their highest potential, increase revenue, reduce turnover, elevate business profitability, build competencies, and improve performance.
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