With gasoline prices at an all time high, bicycling becomes a much more attractive means of transportation. Dowtown Salem will need to continue to make streets more bicycle friendly. Additionally, bicycles need parking areas for locking appropriately. Businesses could consider incentives they might implement to encourage employees to ride to work. And cyclists reap the benefit of a workout built right into the work day if using a bike for commuting.

When bicycling in the Salem downtown one-way grid, remember, bikes are not allowed on the sidewalks. Ride on the street, taking the middle of the lane needed because while riding to the side of a lane on a road lined with parked cars, a car may try and pass too closely, forcing the rider into a parked car. Cyclists have the right to use the lane, so use it, but follow all traffic laws and as soon as possible, move over to allow cars to pass.

Here are some other tips that will make bicycling easier and safer in downtown and throughout Salem:

1.) Always wear a helmet, one that fits well and is ANSI approved. This is the number one rule for everyone to follow when bike riding.

2.) Be sure tires are inflated to the proper level. This allows better maneuvering capability and keeps tires in good shape longer.

3.) Wear appropriate attire. For long commuter rides or workout rides, a padded crotch available in cycling gear, provides a more comfortable ride and added protection against chafing. For a shorter commuter ride, be sure that clothing on the chain side of the bike is securely out of the way. Use a large, wide rubber band (nothing too tight) or a Velcro strip to keep pant leg from getting caught in the chain. Rain gear can be tucked away into a backpack or pannier to have when needed.

4.) Wear appropriate shoes. Open toe shoes are dangerous for riding.

5.) Always follow traffic rules and patterns. While walking, the rule is to walk against traffic, but a bike should never be ridden against traffic. If hit head-on while riding a bicycle, the impact of coming to a dead stop and being thrown into the windshield of the car will more than likely result in death or extreme injury. Being hit from behind while both bike and the car are traveling in the same direction will cause the rider to be thrown from the bike, but impact will be less by the time the rider hits the ground and therefore stand a better chance of survival and less severe injury. Additionally, follow the same rules of the road for cars, stopping at stop signs, lights, and where available ride in the bike lane.

6.) If on the road at dusk or after dark, purchase lights for the bike. A constant flashing light will alert cars coming up behind and a head light for the front will allow visibility to any obstacles in the road. Wear proper reflector gear as well.

7.) Purchase a rack that will hold either baskets or allow a crate to be bungee strapped on for transporting goods. For young children, attach a seat to the back or purchase a cart that easily tows two children, groceries or both.

Jane Hasenmueller is an avid bicycler and writer. She lives in Salem.