First, read Paul Dorn's Bike Commute Tips. Then come back here for some local information!
Bicycling for Transportation
It's easier than you think to ride your bike on the street for transportation.
- Bike Escorts - This private service will match you up with an experienced cyclist who will help you choose a route and ride with you to your destination. It's a great way to get started and build some confidence on the road. Email k.c.bikeescorts@gmail.com to set up an appointment or download their brochure (PDF).
- Take a Class - Two of our Bike Week sponsors are offering classes to help you learn how to ride safely in traffic.
- Urban Bike Safety Clinic on Saturday May 9 - Learn how to ride safely on city streets with traffic.
- Finding the Right Bike for You on Wednesday May 13 - Advice on choosing a good bike for you and your commute.
- Bicycle Maintenance on Thursday May 14 - Learn the basics of keeping your bicycle in working order.
Finding a Route
Getting from Point A to Point B on your bike is all about choosing the right route. Most of the city has a great grid system that lets you use low-traffic streets to get around. While you might use Ward Parkway or Barry Road in your car, just a couple blocks over are quiet residential streets much more suited for bicycling. The city is also more hilly than you might realize, so it's also important to think about going around the hills whenever possible.
- KC Bike Commuters Mailing List - sign up for the local mailing list and get advice from other KC bike commuters.
- KC Route Map - some popular bike routes in the metro area.
- RouteSlip - Browse dozens of routes mapped by local riders.
- Bikely - Another great bike mapping site with lots of local routes.
Staying Safe
- Read How Not to Get Hit by Cars for practical information on riding in traffic.
Knowing the Law
Laws in Missouri and Kansas say that bicycles have the same rights, rules, and responsibilities as motor vehicles.
- Ride in the street or on a designated multi-use trail.
- Sidewalks are one of the most dangerous places to ride, because you are much less visible to turning motorists. In Missouri it's even illegal to ride on sidewalks in business districts.
- Right to the right as far as you feel safe and comfortable.
- Take the whole lane if the road is too narrow to share safely or if there is an obstruction to the right.
Safety Net
- MARC Ride Share - The Mid-America Regional Council offers registered bicycle commuters a Guaranteed Ride Home in case of emergency.