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The State News

Tim Potter, the marketing and sales coordinator for MSU Bikes Service Center, explains how to modify quick-release features on a bike's wheels or seat to prevent theft. Potter, who has been riding his bike regularly for about 30 years, was helping to lead this year's commuting class. The free event was attended by more than 15 people and covered topics ranging from appropriate biking attire to safety to biker's rights.

BIKE MONTH ACTIVITIES

• May 16: Ride of Silence

• May 19: Fourth Annual Farm Daze Tour

• May 30: Lucinda Means Advocacy Day Tour and Parade

Source: http://www.bikes.
msu.edu/

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Geeked about safety gear, bike tires and various bike styles, about 15 cycling enthusiasts gathered Saturday at Bessey Hall to discuss and learn more about their favorite mode of transportation.

Tim Potter, manager of the MSU Bike Service Center, opened his shop to the class. Residents from across the Lansing area attended the event, which is part of Bike Month, celebrated in May.

Instead of driving to work, the grocery store or when taking children to school, people can utilize alternative means of transportation.

"We want to get people out of single occupancy vehicles and promote biking," said Potter, an avid biker who uses his bike six to seven months a year.

Traveling with deodorant and baby wipes, Mike Unsworth, an MSU history and Canadian studies librarian, led a discussion about the importance of proper hygiene after a bike ride. He has commuted using a bike since 1974.

Unsworth also said it's imperative to be "conspicuous" as a biker.

By dressing in bright colors, attaching front and rear lights to a bike, and equipping bikes with tall flags, riders can remain safe from harm. He also noted that riding on sidewalks was less safe than riding on a roadway with motorists.

"The safest road surface is a bike path on the road with traffic," Unsworth said.

Fairly new to the bike commuting world are Guy and Julie Eckinger of Lansing. They decided to take the class to learn more about bike commuting. Julie had never ridden a bike to work before but wished to gain confidence in her riding abilities, as well as add biking to her exercise regiment.

"I won't commute every day, but I'd like to supplement my exercise with fun stuff like this," Eckinger said.

Biking to her job in Lansing has added to Jessica Yorko's quality of life. Yorko said she moved about five blocks from work so she can enjoy her alternative method of transportation.

"I don't want to drive to work at all," said Yorko, coordinator of Smart Commute program for the Mid-Michigan Environmental Action Council and coordinator of the commuter class.

Yorko also bikes her son to school, which is three miles away.

"It's a quality of life thing. I am passionate about the environment," Yorko said.

Published on Monday, May 14, 2007