After eating my way through the Great Recession, I’m heading into my second season of bike commuting…in winter.
As a relative newbie, I went searching for good advice on what to buy. But I had to do a lot of reading, asking around, and piecing it all together. So while today’s blog is not my usual business/trend/next gen fare, I’m writing it as a public service for those of you who - like me - are looking for a one-stop blog on what to buy if you’re starting your life as a bike commuter.
Here’s a list of gear I use for every commute. Please note I’m not endorsing any brand, just sharing what works pour moi. My commute is 7 miles, one way.
- A bike. Of course you’ll need a bike, but what kind? When I bought my bike I was very clear that I was going to bike in EVERY season. So the sales guy encouraged me to buy a bike with some plastic parts (because they won’t rust) and tires in a size common enough to get studded tires (for riding on ice.) These were great recommendations that have served me well. Since I live in Wisconsin, I bought - what else - a Trek. It was about $400 including all the lights, fenders, and rear rack.
- An undershirt (or two) for layering. I like the Patagonia Capilene 2 because (a) it’s light enough to wear by itself (without your bra showing) in the office, (b) it provides a warm underlayer for days like today, when it’s cold in the morning, and (c) Patagonia has a great environmental program, including its recycled threads program and “1% for the Planet.” [Remember the rule of layering: first, a wicking layer next to your skin, then a warmth layer, and finally a windproof layer.]
- Waterproof panniers. When I first started bike commuting, I used my girlfriend’s hand-me-down panniers. But they would fly off when I rode over railroad tracks (bad news for my MacBook.) I did a lot of research and finally bought a pair of Ortlieb panniers. They’re durable and sized right: one pannier holds my Mac, a huge file of folders, three tupperware containers (lunch!), odds and ends (pens, lip gloss), plus my bike lock. [Bonus: Each pannier has a shoulder strap, so I can carry it into a meeting, store, etc.]
- Wind and water repellent tops and bottoms with reflective material or piping. I wear this jacket all the time, March - November. When it’s warm, I zip off the sleeves and just wear the vest. I also have these pants closeby, in case I need wind or water protection.
- Safety stuff. You know the drill: helmet, front and back lights for your bike, and a way to keep your pant legs tucked away. Notes: If you’re going to wear a beanie or headband under your helmet in cold months, make sure you get a helmet that easily expands to fit your head. To keep your pants safe, either (a) wear socks long enough to tuck your pants into them, (b) use a rubber band around your cuffs, or (c) get some velcro straps with reflective material on them from your local bike shop.
- An extra tube for a tire, in case you get a flat.
- A long cable with a good lock. I know a lot of people favor those kryptonite locks, but I prefer a cable, because it allows me to secure a lot more stuff, anywhere. A long cable can be looped around a tree or a sign post and can lock several bikes together.
- A bicycle benefits sticker. Lots of states and cities have Bicycle Benefits, which gives bikers savings at local stores. Simply pay your $5 or $10, get your sticker, and put it on your helmet. Show your helmet at checkout and save money!
All told, I’ve spent a little less than $1,000 on my bike, gear, and all the stuff listed here. That’s a lot to spend at one time, so start with what you have, and save for what you need. And remember, $1,000 is less than most annual fitness club memberships and far less than you’ll spend on a year’s worth of car payments, insurance, gas, and maintenance.
Bonus: bike commuters can take a $20/month tax credit starting in 2009! Read more about it here.
On your left!
