Whether commuting to work, running errands, or enjoying the city’s scenic routes – biking provides numerous benefits including reduced traffic congestion and increased physical fitness. Additionally, Springfield’s network of bike paths and lanes makes biking a safe and enjoyable option for people of all ages. Embracing biking not only enhances individual well-being but also contributes to a more sustainable and connected community.
Getting Started
- Bike Preparation: Check your tires, brakes, and chain, or visit a local bike shop for a safety check.
- Route Practice: Plan and test your route in advance, ideally on a weekend.
- Long Commutes: Consider combining your ride with the bus or use an e-bike for faster or longer trips.
- Emergencies: Check to see if your employer is registered with the Emergency Ride Home program and sign up
Plan Your Route
To plan your bike route, explore the following resources:
- Printed Springfield Bike Maps: Available at City Hall – visit the Library or the City Manager’s Office.
- Online Bike Maps:
- Springfield Bike Map (English)
- Springfield Bike Map (Spanish)
- Eugene Bike Map (English)
- Eugene Bike Map (Spanish)
- Willamalane Paths and Trails Map
- Online Interactive Maps: Use the bike directions function on Google or Apple Maps.
Bicycle Safety
- Helmet: Recommended for all riders; required for those under 16.
- Lock: Always use a u-lock to secure your bike’s frame when parking.
- Lights: Use a white front light and a red rear light at night or in the rain.
- Visibility: Reflective stickers and bright clothing improve visibility when biking.
- Laws: Bikes are vehicles with rights and responsibilities in Oregon.
- Parking: Public bike racks are available throughout the city or work with your employer to identify a safe and secure area.
Top Rules of the Road
- Ride with Traffic: Always ride in the same direction as traffic and in a straight line.
- Lane Positioning: Ride on the right side of the road or “take the lane” when necessary.
- Obey Traffic Signs: Stop at red lights; treat stop signs and flashing red lights as yield signs.
BICYCLING WITH CARGO
- Carrying Stuff: Bicycles can help transport your everyday items and larger hauls.
- Gear: The key is to have the right gear for the size and weight of items you carry.
- Balanced and Secured Load: Keep the load balanced, secure, and out of the way of your steering, pedaling, and any moving parts of your bicycle.
- Support: Visit a local bike shop for help getting the proper bags, racks, trailers, straps, baskets, and/or cargo bicycles to carry your items.
BICYCLE THEFT PREVENTION TIPS
- Lock: Always use a u-lock and follow these locking tips.
- Register: Visit Bike Index and/or Project 529 to register your bike for free.
BICYCLING IN THE RAIN
- Gloves: Fingers tend to get cold the quickest. Wear warm, waterproof gloves that you can easily grab your brakes with.
- Waterproof Shoes: Keeping your feet dry and warm will help you enjoy your ride.
- Rain Gear: A waterproof jacket and rain paints help keep you dry.
- Fenders: Front and rear fenders protect you and your bike from the elements.
- Tires: Use a set of thicker, heavy-duty tires for winter riding when it is slick.
- Brake Early: It takes longer to stop after applying the brakes in the rain.
BICYCLING WITH KIDS
- Fun: Bicycling with kids can be a fun way to spend time together, exercise, and get to school and other destinations.
- Attention: Riding with kids, especially small ones on their own bikes, demands more attention and communication.
- Safety: Teach and remember to use the ABC Quick Check.
- Family Riding: For more information about biking with babies, toddlers, and while pregnant, check out the Portland Family Biking Guide.
- Safe Routes to Schools: See the Resources section below to reach out to our local program.
