Have a back-up plan such as calling a friend for a ride or taking the bus if necessary. All Citilink fixed route buses are equipped with bike racks. For more information, please see: http://www.fwcitilink.com/load_bike_on_bus.htm

• Use a map to figure out the best way from your home to your destination.
• Keep in mind that online map services like Google Maps do not take road conditions or traffic into account
• Try riding it on a day you're not working so you'll have more confidence and will know how long it takes

• Air: Squeeze the sides of each tire. If the tire is squishy, fill it with a bicycle pump until it reaches the air pressure indicated on the sidewall of the tire or until it is firm. Avoid using gas station compressors as they have the tendency to over-inflate bike tires, causing blow-outs.
• Brakes: Stand next to your bike and push it forward while squeezing one brake at a time. Each brake should create considerable resistance.
• Chain: Check that your chain is silver or black and not rusty. If it is rusty, it will need to be replaced. Lubricate your chain at least monthly with bicycle-specific oil; do not use WD-40.
• Quick Releases: On some bikes, especially newer models, quick releases attach your wheels and seat to your frame. Ensure that your quick releases are tightened and in the closed position; quick releases on your wheels should have "open" and "closed" inscribed on either side.

Take it to your local bike shop for a tune-up

http://bikeleague.org/content/ride-better-tips

• Always yield to pedestrians
• Be especially vigilant for cars when going through intersections or driveways. Many drivers do not expect to see bicyclists in these places and will not notice before making a turn or pulling out of a driveway.

• Follow the same rules you would as when you are driving a car
• Ride three feet away from the edge of the road to avoid debris in the gutter and three feet away from parked cars to avoid being hit by an opening door

Use a white front light and either a rear red reflector or light

• The front edge of the helmet should be visible when you look up
• Adjust the clips on the ear straps so they are right below your ears
• Adjust the chin strap so that when you open your mouth wide, the strap becomes tight but not so tight that it is uncomfortable
• Shake your head up and down and back and forth to ensure that your helmet isn't sliding around; if it is after you make adjustments, you may need to purchase a different size.

Try switching at least one car trip per week to a trip by bicycle. Trips by bike that are two miles or less are as fast as, if not faster than, driving a car. Try riding to the library, to go out to eat, or for a quick grocery trip. You'll be surprised by how fun and easy it is!

Bring your work clothes and any necessary toiletries to your workplace the day or week before you ride

• Consider parking at one of the parks connected to downtown through the trails network, such as Johnny Appleseed, Kreager, Foster, or Rockhill, and riding from there
• For more information, please see: http://fwtrails.org/files/2014FWTTrailMap.pdf

• Find out if your employer has secure indoor bike parking; if not, use a U-lock with a cable or a heavy duty chain lock.
• At a minimum, lock the frame of your bike, but also try to secure both wheels and other components if they are easily removable
• Ensure that what you lock your bike to is secured to the ground