How to Get a Non-Biker to Bike

When it comes to transportation biking, there really is safety in numbers. That’s why it’s vital for us to recruit new disciples of the sustainable transportation cult.

Portland found that crash rates remained relatively stable, even as cycling grew dramatically in popularity.

Since moving to San Francisco I’ve converted several friends to transportation bikers. It all starts with just one ride!

Here are some tips:

1. Pick a safe, easy route on a nice, sunny day.

2. Plan a low speed ride on the safest roads.

3. Follow the rules of the road (even the ones you usually ignore).

4. Put your friend's seat low enough that they can touch the ground while sitting.

5. Get a bike with an upright posture. City Bike Share bikes are a great option.

6. Make sure to communicate thoroughly. Let your friend know well before you turn and warn them (gently) ahead of time if there are less safe road designs along your route.

7. Don’t worry about all the gear. Your friend doesn’t need to know anything about clipless pedals or lycra until they love cycling as much as you.

8. Most of all, pick a great destination! Take your friend to a place that they wouldn’t normally go. My favorite in San Francisco is the Conservatory of Flowers.

When you get a friend biking you’re making the roads safer for everybody!