Bikes are affordable, fun, fast, and efficient – good for the planet and great for you, too! Bikes encourage exploration, discovery, health and fitness. They are a key part of reducing the impact of transportation on climate change. Take advantage of Minneapolis’ top-ranking status as a bicycling city, and get active on your way to work while taking in scenic views on some of Minnesota’s most enticing trails and parkways.
Bicycling is active transportation that combines getting you to your destination sustainably along with providing low-impact exercise with great cardiovascular benefits. Those benefits also translate to mental health. A 2019 University of Minnesota study found cycling the happiest mode for commuting.
Employers who encourage bike commuting not only have happier and healthier employees, but they can save on their bottom line too. Bike racks or bike rooms are low-cost options that reduce pressure to provide/maintain employee vehicle parking. Facilities also gain LEED certification points by providing basic bike amenities.
Some basics to get you rolling! Visit a bike shop for gear, recommendations, and expert tune-ups. You don’t have to spend much to ride.
- Bike – old or new, owned or shared, road or city, geared, fixie or fattie, human-powered or electric, cargo bike or a trike!
- Helmet – fitting comfortably snug and low across your forehead
- A quality bike lock
- Something for cargo – panniers, a basket or a backpack
- Rechargeable headlight and a bright red taillight
- Comfortable clothing
No bike? No problem! Minneapolis and neighboring communities are home to plentiful bike resources including bikeshare. With FullCycle, you’ll be rolling sooner rather than later.
Want more guidance to get riding? Check out Pedal Pals to be matched with a seasoned bike rider who can help you plan and accompany you on a test ride of your bike commute.
Learn tips and tricks for planning your route from Minneapolis residents in the Move Minneapolis webinar “How to Plan Multimodal Trips in the Twin Cities”, with a recap blog post here.
Have kids and want to know how to navigate bike commuting with a family? Check out Move Minneapolis’ “Bike Commuting with a Family” webinar and blog post.
Feeling overwhelmed? Not sure how to start? Schedule a no-cost Customized Consultation to talk through bikes, routes, gear, and anything else you’re curious about before hitting the bike path.
For information on bike lockers and showers, please see MPLS Parking’s website.
