Today’s question comes from Molly in Brooklyn, New York.

Dear Umbra, so I am thinking about commuting by bike, what do I need to know to get started?

Dearest Molly, good thinking. Biking has little impact on the environment. It improves your health and it gives you mental piece. Oh and it is cheap! If you are careful and prepared, it can also be quite safe. So, future bike commuters of the world, the best thing to do is to get in touch with the local bike organization or go to your local bike shop and get a free map, which a lot of cities have and then plan a route. Ask fellow cyclists whether they consider your route safe. Find the bike lanes and the roads with good shoulders. Test the route on a day off to get to know your way and increase your bike IQ. Here are a few more tips to get you in the rider’s seat! Choose a bike you are comfortable riding for your commute. Store a wardrobe at the office or carry your clothes rolled in a towel to reduce wrinkling. Find yourself a cool set of LED lights for night riding. And bike in the bike lane whenever you can, long wise, this may have its advantages too, people in cars are exposed to the fumes of the car just ahead of them and then they are medically sealed in there, it is like sucking on the tailpipe of the car just ahead of you! So bear that in mind and try not to follow behind any diesel trucks in poor condition. Get to a bike lane people and wear a helmet. Happy commuting. Pantingly, Umbra! For more on bikes, visit my column, ask Umbra on crystalorg.