With gas prices soaring, people who travel are feeling the financial pinch. In order to save money, many people are finding cheaper ways to hit the road.
"I first started just to get around because it was the best way to get around. And the exercise is wonderful. But now with gas prices the way they are, it's even better," Johnny Martinez said.
Martinez is on his way to work and clocks about 10 miles a day. Because so many more people are opting to bike than drive, bike shops are struggling to keep up with the demand. As always, safety comes first.
"You should be equipped with a bike that has reflectors. A rear light is invaluable, especially if it's flashing. Cars tend to not see bikes like they see other cars. So making yourself very visible is key, “said Jeffrey Cimino with Blue Sky Bicycles.
Reflectors on the pedals and wheels are recommended. Horns are a nice way to make others aware that you're coming.
Head injuries account for nearly 75 percent of serious injuries and fatalities involving bikes. And for children under the age of 13 it’s a law that they have to wear a helmet. And adults, one size does not fit all.
With gas prices soaring, people who travel are feeling the financial pinch. In order to save money, many people are finding cheaper ways to hit the road.
"When you get into more expensive helmets a lot of people don't realize that they do actually fit better and they can be more protective in the event of a serious fall,” said Cimino.
One helmet costs about $40 dollars, is certified and a good choice but when compared to a $150 helmet, there is one big safety feature lacking. Thanks to the carbon fiber inserts, the more expensive helmet can take a harder fall and still protect the head.
Rules of the road for bikes; travel with the traffic on the shoulder, obey all traffic signs, stop at red lights, stop signs and use correct hand signals. Cars should yield to bikes but that's not always the case. Cyclists need to aware of all traffic, especially when passing parked cars, quick thinking is needed if a car door suddenly flies open.
"Usually not too scared. But traffic is always tricky. Especially when driving through Broadway, cars coming in and out of parking spots. People want to get the spot, they see parking is a problem and they open doors. But other than that on the open roads it’s great,” said Martinez.
Even in the time of soaring gas prices, maybe there is a silver lining.
"Well I think that the only kind of positive with this whole gas crisis is the fact that people are a little more aware of cycling as a transportation form," Cimino said.
"Oh the bike has paid for itself over and over again. So the impact financially is great. And the fact I don't have to use the car as much is even better,” Martinez said."