Editor's note: The Gazette-Times regularly features columns contributed by representatives of local government and other public projects.

By Joe Whinnery

The next time you cross the bridge on Highway 20/34 coming into Corvallis, look for the purple and white sign that recognizes Corvallis as a "Bicycle Friendly Community."

Many people know the city has one of the highest bike commuting rates in the country at 7.5 percent. Many, however, do not know that Corvallis is one of only four cities in the United States recognized as a "gold" recipient by the League of American Bicyclists, and that the League has just renewed that designation for the third time.

What makes Corvallis unique? Two important factors: bike lanes striped on 95 percent of all arterial and collector streets, and nearly 17 miles of off-street multi-use paths. Most businesses of 50 people or more have bike facilities, and all of the Corvallis Transit System buses are equipped with racks that can carry two bicycles.

If you live within a short distance of a transit system stop, or one to two miles from your work destination, perhaps now is a good time to consider using your bike to commute to work. If you need to use the bus for part of your trip, you can go to the city of Corvallis Web site, which gives a good description for first-time users about how to load and unload your bike on the bus.

Even just a day or two a week to start will save you money on car maintenance and parking, and it will pay you dividends in health benefits.

These are the things to consider when beginning to commute to work by bike:

• Your bike doesn't need to be fancy or expensive, it just needs to be in good working order.

• Learn the basics of taking care of your bike, or take it to a bike shop for a tune-up and safety inspection. A bike that operates well is more efficient, safer and more fun to ride.

• Good-quality equipment is not cheap, but it is an investment that should last many years. Altogether it costs far less than you spend a month on gas, insurance, parking and vehicle maintenance for a car.

Route selection

Plan your route before you ride. Test it on a day when you have extra time, like a day off. Allow a little more time and take the opportunity to fine-tune your route as you gain experience.

Free city of Corvallis bike maps are available at most bike shops and at City Hall. They can also be obtained by calling the Public Works Department at 766-6916.

Weather

The weather is the main reason given in Corvallis for not riding year round. Although weather can present some challenges, it is possible to ride all year in comfort with a few relatively inexpensive items:

• Clothing: A good set of rain gear, waterproof shoes, and perhaps a pair of waterproof gloves can get you there warm and dry. Don't forget to add a rainproof cover for your bike helmet. Layering your clothing is the key to keeping warm. An extra T-shirt and light sweater and wind breaker are better than a heavy sweater. You will be surprised how quickly you warm up, and you will want to be able to remove a layer of clothing.

• Fenders: You have seen the stripe up the back of the unfendered rider; properly fitted fenders keep you dry and clean.

• Panniers (saddle bags): A good-quality waterproof bag will allow you to carry papers, books, lunch or extra clothes and keep them dry. Bags that attach to the front or rear of the bike are best, but a shoulder bag or backpack will work.

Safety

• Bike locks: Consider where and how long your bike will be parked when securing it. If possible, keep it in your office or a secure work space. U-locks are among the strongest, but are heavy. Consider keeping the lock at work, and using a cable lock at other times.

Always park in a well-lit space with high visibility. Never leave your bike unlocked. You can obtain additional information on safely locking your bike at http://oregonstate.edu/dept/ security/bike_safety.

• Helmets: It goes without saying that a helmet is highly desirable and a necessity if you are 16 years of age, or younger.

• Lights: A good lighting system is a necessity. You need to see the road surface (and potential hazards) and other road users need to see you. The law requires a front light (at night) visible from 500 feet and a rear red reflector visible from 600 feet; adding a rear red light is highly recommended. It is also a good idea to add retro reflective material to your clothing, helmet and bike.

• Alertness: Look out for people using other means of transportation who might not be looking out for you, especially if you are an infrequent or inexperienced rider.

Keep in mind the benefits of bicycling for both your health, and that of the environment. You will feel better, and you will feel good about what you are doing (and saving) all at the same time.

At a glance

This month, area agencies and businesses are promoting a variety of fitness activities for the whole family.

For an updated calendar of "August in Motion" events, see the Corvallis Parks and Recreation Department Web site at www.ci.corvallis.or.us/downloads/pr/motion.pdf.

Also, the Mid-Valley Bicycle Club organizes group rides every Wednesday and Saturday morning. For more information, see www.peak.org/~mvbc/.

Joe Whinnery works in the the city of Corvallis transportation department.