Bike

[RecycleMichael]

Why does the bike need a kickstand?
Because it is two-tired.

[Ed W]

Why does the bike need a kickstand?
Because it is two-tired.

No, no, no.  That's supposed to be "Why do men sleep on their sides?  It's because they have kickstands."

I sleep on my back, though, 'cause the kickstand is too long.

[Ed W]

A couple of things:  Bike fit is key.  One that doesn't fit right will cause you pain.  Now, there's good pain and bad pain, and a bike that doesn't fit causes the bad kind.  In all honesty, even a properly fitting bike will require your body to acclimate to the added work load and seat position. 

Where a gentleman sits is very important, and while someone said that you should look for an expensive saddle, I respectfully disagree.  You need to find the saddle that fits your particular anatomy. Bike shops often have bins of saddles you can try.  I've used the classic Brooks Professional, the Brooks B-17 (my all-time fave), a Sella Royale Strada, and even a minimalist's track shell, and many more that will remain nameless.  Very minor adjustments in saddle position can make tremendous differences in comfort.

Gloves provide a bit more cushioning, and in a fall they protect your hands.  They're cheap insurance.

Cycling shoes are stiffer than walking shoes so your foot doesn't try to wrap itself around the pedal. Some strap to the pedal, others are 'clipless'.  They make a difference when you're spinning fast because you can pull up as well as push down.  Also, when crossing RR tracks, you're less likely to slip off a pedal and fall.  They're not essential, but they will make you more comfortable.

Cycling shorts are another somewhat controversial item among non-cyclists. they're actually quite practical since they have no internal seams to cut into your skin, reducing saddle sores and making rides more comfortable.  For the every day cyclist, they offer improved hygiene, again to prevent saddle sores, and make it possible to ride every day.

Saddle sores are a whole icky topic in themselves, but I won't go into the various types and causes.  This is a family forum, after all, and I haven't had dinner yet.

Helmets - use one or not at your discretion.  They're cheaper than a set of xrays, so I always wear one.

Lights - Oklahoma law requires a white front light and a red rear reflector or red light.  I use all of them, and include pedal reflectors or reflective tape on cranks, as well as an amber rear reflector and an amber rear light.  Amber penetrates rain and fog better than red.  Use DOT spec reflectors, too, rather than CPSC ones.  DOT reflectors are brighter.

Law - under OK law, bicycles are considered the same as motor vehicles, except for those laws that do not apply.  You are obligated to stop at stop signs and red lights.  You must signal your turns.  You cannot ride in the left hand lane unless you're avoiding a hazard or preparing for a left turn.  In a practical sense, a bicycle is a meat powered motorcycle.

Commuting is an exercise in problem solving.  The hardest part is deciding to try it in the first place.  After that, it's all figuring out how to do things, like how to carry work clothes, how to carry lunch, how to deal with rainy days, etc. 

Bike security is a biggie, too.  A U-lock is your friend.  A U-lock and a cable is a very good friend. 

There's more...lots more...consider signing up for a safe cycling course through the HUB or with a local instructor. I no longer teach, but I'll answer any questions you have.       

[heironymouspasparagus]

Where a gentleman sits is very important, and while someone said that you should look for an expensive saddle, I respectfully disagree.  You need to find the saddle that fits your particular anatomy. Bike shops often have bins of saddles you can try.  I've used the classic Brooks Professional, the Brooks B-17 (my all-time fave), a Sella Royale Strada, and even a minimalist's track shell, and many more that will remain nameless.  Very minor adjustments in saddle position can make tremendous differences in comfort.

Cycling shorts are another somewhat controversial item among non-cyclists. they're actually quite practical since they have no internal seams to cut into your skin, reducing saddle sores and making rides more comfortable.  For the every day cyclist, they offer improved hygiene, again to prevent saddle sores, and make it possible to ride every day.

Helmets - use one or not at your discretion.  They're cheaper than a set of xrays, so I always wear one.

Commuting is an exercise in problem solving.  The hardest part is deciding to try it in the first place.  After that, it's all figuring out how to do things, like how to carry work clothes, how to carry lunch, how to deal with rainy days, etc. 

Bike security is a biggie, too.  A U-lock is your friend.  A U-lock and a cable is a very good friend. 
     

I have a couple of old Raleigh's ('60s vintage) that have the slick unpadded leather seats.  An incredible pain in the butt.  Will be using your list as starting point to find a better seat.  Thanks.

Shorts - I have ridden so many miles with a seam in the crotch area, it is almost as painful as having the seat height adjusted incorrectly.  Shorts are really, really good.

Helmet - I caught a front wheel in a storm drain grate and literally swiveled over the top of the front wheel to do a massive face plant on the concrete.  Lots of face rash, but the helmet was shattered.  SO glad I had it on!!

When worked around 15th and Sheridan, would ride when weather permitted from BA (81st and Elm area).  Wouldn't ride up 145th on a bet now days.  Sponge bath is good alternative if the company has no shower.  Just takes a little time.  Rain?  Hah...what rain?  Just pre-wetting for the sponge bath!

For the commute, would just bring the bike into the back shop.  Made a concession of weight to carry a large chain covered with shrink tubing and a lock.  Still have it, but those U-locks look pretty good now.

[Conan71]

I said get a "comfortable" not "expensive" seat.  In reality some of the more comfortable ones are the least expensive. 

I personally ride high end saddles that give the right amount of support in the right places, give good support for seated steep climbs, and will work well with the chamois (butt pad) in my shorts over a 30 to 100 mile ride with a cadence of 80 to 100 rpm.  For the type of cycling I primarily do, a slimmer profile is actually more comfortable.  Either that or myself and all the people I ride with have a snob factor that will allow for the purchase of an incredibly uncomfortable piece of smile for $120 to $200 but have the pride of it only weighing 100 grams

[heironymouspasparagus]

I said get a "comfortable" not "expensive" seat.  In reality some of the more comfortable ones are the least expensive. 

I personally ride high end saddles that give the right amount of support in the right places, give good support for seated steep climbs, and will work well with the chamois (butt pad) in my shorts over a 30 to 100 mile ride with a cadence of 80 to 100 rpm.  For the type of cycling I primarily do, a slimmer profile is actually more comfortable.  Either that or myself and all the people I ride with have a snob factor that will allow for the purchase of an incredibly uncomfortable piece of smile for $120 to $200 but have the pride of it only weighing 100 grams

At this point, comfortable is my number 1 criteria.  Don't care if it is $30 or 250.  I want the comfort.  Don't even care if it weighs 3 or 4 pounds.

[Conan71]

At this point, comfortable is my number 1 criteria.  Don't care if it is $30 or 250.  I want the comfort.  Don't even care if it weighs 3 or 4 pounds.

A good friend of mine rides a Bianchi Volpe with the full tour kit- fenders, rack, panniers.  He does Freewheel, he does century rides.  He's an old terrapin- 13 MPH average, doesn't matter the terrain or the day.  Swears by his Brooks saddle, much like this one.  No padding, just a well-engineered piece of leather for padding.  Says it hurts like a grumble till it's broken in (about 6 weeks according to him) after that, plush.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/2011-Brooks-ENGLAND-leather-TEAM-Pro-CLASSIC-Bike-seat-Saddle-HONEY-NEW-IN-BOX-/110840311683?pt=Cycling_Parts_Accessories&hash=item19ce98ef83#ht_2830wt_986

[jacobi]

It makes my very happy to hear that the world may well have another bike commuter.

[Townsend]

It makes my very happy to hear that the world may well have another bike commuter.

I would be if I didn't have to Paul Tay on the highway.  (only way for me to get to work)

[carltonplace]

I would be if I didn't have to Paul Tay on the highway.  (only way for me to get to work)

The phallus, rear wagon and santa costume are only optional for commuters, they are not obligatory.

[DolfanBob]

It makes my very happy to hear that the world may well have another bike commuter.

And all thanks to you guy's. I never would have even considered it without the postings on this forum.
The little woman thinks I'm crazy. Mid life crisis and all.

[Conan71]

I would be if I didn't have to Paul Tay on the highway.  (only way for me to get to work)

Actually it's not.  I could map you a safe route.

[Conan71]

And all thanks to you guy's. I never would have even considered it without the postings on this forum.
The little woman thinks I'm crazy. Mid life crisis and all.

Not crazy at all.  Less gas, lower car maintenance, and lower body maintenance from getting into better shape.

[jacobi]

And all thanks to you guy's. I never would have even considered it without the postings on this forum.
The little woman thinks I'm crazy. Mid life crisis and all.

You should hit the trails to get your practice in for commuting.  Did you say you live in bixby?  the trail that follows the creek is really pretty and challenging.

[DolfanBob]

You should hit the trails to get your practice in for commuting.  Did you say you live in bixby?  the trail that follows the creek is really pretty and challenging.

No I'm in B.A. and I was planning on doing the rides through my neighborhoods to get myself acclimated to riding again. I was quite the wheelie king as a youth. I believe I will leave that ability to fond memories.