THE BIKE SONG

This weeks blog offers something different. Bicycling is great exercise 

and lots of fun as seen in this really cool video. 

Starts off a little different, but hang in there, it will surprise you 

and inspire you to get on a bicycle. Enjoy!

BICYCLE INSURANCE - THE CHOICE IS YOURS

As a cyclist, novice or experienced, whether your riding for fun or training for a race, insurance is a good idea, at some point if you ride regularly, you’re going to go down, and the driver of the vehicle isn’t always at fault.

Bikes are expensive and while cyclists may be covered through homeowner's or renter’s insurance for bike theft, it doesn’t always cover bike damage, and not every cyclist owns a home or has renter’s insurance. Breaking a collar bone, a leg, a hip, or getting a concussion can lead to long term medical care and outrageous hospital and doctor bills. The ride to the emergency room alone can cost in access of $200.00.

Determining how much insurance you need depends on how you use your bicycle; for transportation or competition you want more insurance, for recreation or fitness you might want less. Evaluate your cycling needs, the amount of risk you’re prepared to take and how much you can afford to pay.

Pricing on policies vary greatly. Some bicycle policies combine Medical Coverage and Vehicle Protection Coverage, while others are combined with your automobile policy. Some suggest you consider coverage similar to the protection drivers get: Liability, theft, damage, uninsured motorist and because you don’t want to leave that mangled $2000.00 bike on the side of the road - roadside assistance. Most don’t cover bike racks, but offer bike rack riders.

Yes, USA Cycling offers coverage, however they won’t cover the liability if you crash into someone’s car–remember the insurance commission determines who is at fault. You won’t be covered if you damage someone’s property and your auto policy won’t cover that liability. If you’re hit by a vehicle you can’t count on the driver’s insurance covering your medical expenses – not to mention the damage to your bicycle. Although most states require motorist to carry insurance, many don’t.

Is biker’s insurance a must? Ask yourself these questions: Is my bicycle worth insuring (most are)? Does my homeowners’ policy cover damage to my bicycle away from home? Will my auto insurance policy coverage damage to my bicycle regardless of who is at fault? Is my renter’s insurance providing enough coverage? Can I afford not to have bicycle insurance? Is there a limit on my homeowners’ or auto policy on how much they will cover? Do I ride often enough in an area where anything can happen? The answer to that last question is a resounding yes, regardless of where you live or where you ride.

There’s loss of earnings coverage, coverage for family members, public liability coverage, personal accident options, underinsurance coverage and the list goes on. Talk to a professional, review your policy with your insurance agent - identify specifically where in the policy your bicycle is covered and what that coverage consists of, and lastly protect yourself and your financial stability with a health insurance plan. Over 90% of all bankruptcies in the United States are due to hospital and medical bills.

You paid a lot for your bicycle, you love your family dearly, and you understand the importance of taking care of yourself. There are lots of companies to choose from. Get insured, you’ll be glad you did.

COMMUTING BY BICYCLE

Are you riding your bicycle to work?  People all over the world are changing their methods of transportation. The millenniums and Y Generation have forced us to think differently about a lot of things. Some do it to save the planet, some to save money, others find they are forced economically and financially to find a better way of doing things. Transporting ones-self five days a week, 50 weeks a year is costly. Whether by car, bus or train, getting from point A to point B sustains a cost whereas bicycling is virtually free. True, there are upfront costs, yet once you have the bicycle, the clothing, a couple of spare tires, a wire bottle and a good pair of shoes, your cost free.  There is one factor which remains a challenge for many – the physical requirements. Hoping on a bicycle and riding 6-8 miles to work doesn’t come easy.

Google commuting by bicycle and you’ll find articles referencing exercise, fitness, race training, health benefits and more. There is very little however on how to prepare for the commute. If you don’t exercise at all, jumping on a bicycle and expecting to ride 6-8 miles on day one will led to parking your newly purchased bicycle in the garage or hanging it from a hook in the ceiling never to be touched again. If you don’t know your physical limitations, you will end up hating the experience as much as you hate the bicycle.

Although cycling is a low-impact exercise, any prolonged physically activity (you’re not prepared for) can leave you with injuries.  Back strain, arm pain, shoulder and knee discomfort are problem areas new and many seasoned cyclist experience.  Tiredness, fatigue, a lack of hydration and poor nutrition should be added to the list.  If you are planning to purchase a bicycle, or own one you’re planning to use for commuting prepare yourself for the ride – emotionally and physically. There are rules and regulations when riding in traffic, there are challenges riding up and down hills, bike routes aren’t always available and safety is a major concern.

Group bike rides are a must. Before heading out alone join a local group bike ride. Most have different levels and many offer indoor classes before taking to the road. Bike Shops such as Bixby Bicycles and Accessories can provide maps to lay out safe routes.  They also have coaches who can help you prepare physically, give nutritional advice, ensure equipment fits properly, and teach recovery methods. No one wants to feel great about bicycling to work and arrive unable to put in an eight hour day. Your boss just might have something to say about that. Being aware of the weather conditions, having extra clothing, and having a plan B is crucial. Bicycling is physical exercise and if you’re in a hot climate you’ll need a way to freshen-up once you arrive at the work place. You don’t want to arrive exhausted neither do you want everyone to smell you coming.  Snow, rain and drastic changes in temperature can make the ride home challenging, have a plan B. Preparation is key!

Commuting to work by bicycle is more popular than ever.  You save money, see things you’ve never seen before, avoid rush hour traffic and rush hour crowds, save money, save the planet, get your daily dose of exercise, and let’s not forget the freedom of the ride. If you’re properly trained, physically fit, and properly attired for safety and comfort, know your route and have a plan B for unexpected changes in the weather or that requirement to work overtime, commuting by bicycle can be a truly rewarding experience.