Tips for New Riders - Bike to Work Day 2019 Edition

Here at the SVBC office, we’re busy as bees preparing for Bike to Work Day. Getting excited for new bike commuters got a lot of us on staff thinking about our first bike commutes, and we’re sharing some of our favorite tips for new riders:

• “Consider using a basket instead of a backpack to avoid a sweaty back. You can also consider a pannier or bag that can hook on your rack. Plus, it'll put less strain on your back!”– Jessica, Membership & Outreach Coordinator
• “Look into how you can bring your bike on Caltrain and local buses to extend the distance you're able to travel.”– Emma, Policy Director
• “Be cautious while riding at night. Wear reflective clothing, to stay in-sight, A blinking red tail and a strong headlight. Remember! Go Bright When in Low Light!” – Sandhya, Program and Advocacy Coordinator
• “Bike safe, bike smart.” – Mui, Education Programs Coordinator
• “When in doubt, take the lane. If there is not enough room on the street, don't try to sneak by close to parked cars, be obvious and take the lane.” – John, Santa Clara County Advocate
• “Thank people when they behave well as a driver. And lead with a positive when you're politely correcting someone's bad driving behavior.” – Shiloh, Executive Director
• “Wear a helmet, and if you’re timid, find a more experienced bike buddy to show you the ropes.” – Allison, Event Coordinator
• “If you or a car driver makes a mistake, wave or maybe even get them to wind down their window if at light, then talk calmly, concisely and kindly. It takes 2. For we are all part of the road network, big or small.” – Kate, Community Programs and Valet Bike Parking Coordinator
• “Always choose the route that brings you joy, or fits your riding comfort level - which is not always the most direct route.” – Ann, Programs Director
• “It's going to take some trial and error to figure out what sorts of layers (arm/leg warmers, buffs, gloves, etc.) are going to work best for you when you start biking in cold weather. Try some different combinations until you find what works for you. Don't let the cold slow you down!” – Ehsaneh, Development and Engagement Director
• “Protect your skin from sun exposure. The back of the hands is the second most likely place to develop skin cancer (the face is the first–ears, too!)” – Deanna, Administrative Manager