It's bike commute month nation wide, and this week is Bike Walk Week for us! Win prizes, group together with colleagues, and spread the word. If you've been thinking about biking or walking to work, this is the month to do it. You can also register for Metro's Commuter Challenge, which has another slew of prizes and local goodies. Sign up now and read on for our local biking resources from the 2008 Blue Sky Guide.

Bike commuting is a mental and physical challenge, and it’s also a great way to work exercise into your day and avoid the cost of commuting.

Many people’s top concern about bike commuting is safety on the road — fortunately our area has a good solution and alternatives for winter weather riding.

To see how much you can reduce your impact by going without a car, visit carboncounter.org, and get pedaling.

Bikes
If you think there’s no way to bike to work, or don’t know the best route to get downtown, check bikely.com for routes posted by other commuters and displayed on detailed Google maps. We found routes from southeast Minneapolis to Target HQ and a fun historic Grand Rounds ride. Keep your cargo safe with bike lockers that are fully enclosed and weatherproof. Lockers are available near the light rail line, downtown, and at other locations for $40 annually. See Metro Transit for more information. Also, you’ll find all buses and trains have bike racks, except during the State Fair when some are limited.

Hop in the saddle and take a biking class from Sundays Energy (2637 27th Ave S). Other bike events including picnics, group rides and classes can be found through the Twin Cities Bicycling Club, which also has a list called “Biking 101” to get you rolling. The Saint Paul Classic Bike Tour in September is a good time to find a bike seminar, meet friends, and ride either a 15-mile or 30-mile route.

Have a lot of stuff? Get yourself a SUB — that’s a Sports Utility Bicycle — from xtracycle.com. Helmets, lights, a jersey and a waterproof bag will get you set up for a safe and comfortable ride. For peace of mind, there is even 24/7 roadside assistance and insurance for your bike through betterworldclub.com.