Imagine how much money you could save if you didn’t have to gas up your car every week.

Mark Janike rides his bike daily, and he estimates he saves $25 or more a week on his daily commute to his job at a downtown bicycle shop.

“It’s just money that would be going toward gas,” said Janike, who works at Monkey Wrench Cycles. “It obviously makes sense.”

Monkey Wrench is seeing more new bikers and people who haven’t ridden their bikes in a long time, and gas prices are mentioned by customers at least once or twice a day, Janike said.

Those who are hopping on a bike for the first time in years will probably notice commuting by bicycle is a little different than the days of riding your bike to the pool.

If you’re thinking of riding to work or classes this fall, we’re here to help.

Janike offered some tips for new bikers and those of us who are as rusty as a bike left out behind the shed in the rain.

Thanks also to the Nebraska Department of Roads and other Web sites for tips and information.

Riding

- “Constantly be aware of your surroundings,” Janike said. “Never assume a car is going to stop for you or that you have the right of way.”

- Downtown, bikers must ride in the streets — not on sidewalks. Use the bike lanes on 11th and 14th streets. And when riding on any street, abide by the same traffic laws as drivers.

- If possible, try to avoid streets. Lincoln has good bike trails, Janike said. Side streets also are better than main roads. Consider choosing a safer route over a shorter or faster route.

“You’re not going to want to do your leisurely morning commute down O Street,” Janike said.

To find a bike route using Lincoln’s trails: The Great Plains Trails Network has maps at gptn.org/maps.htm.

- Always yield to pedestrians, even on bike trails. “Use bells or verbally let them know you’re approaching,” Janike said.

- Ride on the right side of the road and pass on the left.

- Front and rear lights are required at night. Outfit your bike with red reflectors on the back and reflectors on the pedals (or on your shoes).

- Use hand signals. A refresher: To signify a left turn, stick your left arm straight out from your shoulder. For a right turn, keep your upper arm there, but raise your forearm straight up, as if you’re going to wave at someone. Motion slowing down or stopping by dropping your forearm toward the ground.

- Wear brightly colored clothes.

- Try not to ride alone, especially in the early morning or late at night.

- Be alert for hazards on streets and trails, such as tall weeds, broken sidewalks or pavement, animals in your way, etc.

Maintenance

- If you’re commuting by bike regularly, get a tuneup at least once every six months — every three months if you commute in the winter. You can get an extensive tuneup for about $50, Janike said.

“I don’t know what you can do to a car for $50,” he said.

- Lube your chain every week or two if you ride daily.

- Replace your chain every so often. It costs about $20, Janike said.

Choosing a bike

- “Make sure you have a bike that fits you,” Janike said. “It’s a common mistake to get a bike that’s too big or too small.”

- If you’re buying a new bike, it’s worth spending a little extra money on an entry-level or moderate bike because the cheapest bike might have more issues, Janike said. You can find a good bike for $300 or less, he said.

Biking accessories

- Some bikers like to have fenders to protect their wheels from mud and rain.

- A basket in front or rack in the back is helpful for carrying a bag.

- Ankle straps can keep long pants from getting caught in the bike.

- Don’t forget water: You’ll want to stay hydrated.

- Mirrors. These make sharing the road with cars a bit safer.

- Locks. Protect your investment at your home and at work or on campus.

Reach Hilary Kindschuh at 473-7120 or hkindschuh@journalstar.com.