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Happy Earth Day!
Happy Earth Day!
Today is the 38th annual celebration of the planet we call home, and a day to step back and think about things we can do to preserve and restore our natural resources…
So that’s the official line on Earth Day, but I want to know: what do YOU think about Earth Day?
Is it a time to reflect on accomplishments?
A time to call for more action?
Or something in-between?
Send a post, let us know, then go outside and do something good for the planet.
Home > Blogs > Living Green > Archives > 2008 > April > 10 > Entry
Riding in the rain
Earlier this week I shared some tips on keeping your bike commute non-stinky. That’s one of the two big issues I hear from people who say “I can’t do that.”
To dispel the second common objection, let’s talk about riding in the rain.
Wet-weather riding may seem spooky at first, but it’s not bad with a little preparation. First, think ahead - in more ways than one. Anyone who rode a bike as a kid knows rim brakes don’t work as well when wet, so plan for longer stopping distances. An alternative, if you can install them, is to put disc brakes on your bike, but looking further ahead never hurts, whatever bike you’re riding…
Think ahead about the weather, too. I’ll usually plan my bike commute days so that I drive when there’s more than a 50 percent chance of rain.
If you want a little more security from the elements, there are plenty of light rain jackets that will fit in a backpack or laptop case, in the off chance you get caught by a storm.
If you do ride in the rain, take some of the anti-sweat tips a bit further and have a towel and hair care products on hand at work.
Finally, remember to step up your visibility. Bike lights are essential, even in the daytime. You’re not using them to see as much as be seen, so lights with attention-getting blinking modes are a good investment. Bright clothes are a good idea, too.
If you missed it at the top of the post, here’s a link to a video that lays out some more wet-weather info. Take a look, and tell them I sent you.
So there you have it - no more excuses about a little fog or mist on your morning commute.
Permalink | Comments (1) | Post your comment | Categories: car-free commuting
Comments
By Lee
April 10, 2008 3:46 PM | Link to this
This was not just talk. I hope that West Chester (WC) can become more green, and combining with our bike and walking trails, WC can become a beacon for Ohio, and strive to be the best when it comes to the environment.