Commuting by Bike in Seattle: Tips for Beginners

Seattle is one of the most bike-friendly cities in America, with an extensive network of bike lanes, trails, and commuter routes. If you've been thinking about bike commuting, there's never been a better time to start.

Why Bike Commute in Seattle?

Seattle has invested heavily in cycling infrastructure, with protected bike lanes downtown, the Burke-Gilman Trail for east-west travel, and the new protected bike lanes on 2nd Avenue and Pike Street. Plus, you'll save money, get exercise, and often beat traffic.

Essential Gear

You don't need a fancy bike to commute—a hybrid, gravel bike, or e-bike all work great. Essential gear includes: a good helmet, bright front and rear lights, fenders for wet weather, a sturdy lock (U-lock is best), and panniers or a backpack for your stuff.

Rain Riding Tips

Seattle's rain is more of a drizzle than a downpour, but you still need to be prepared. Invest in a good rain jacket, waterproof panniers, and fenders. Slow down on wet roads, especially on painted lines and metal surfaces which get slippery. Consider an e-bike if you don't want to arrive sweaty.

Route Planning

Use the Burke-Gilman Trail, the Mountains to Sound Greenway, and Seattle's growing network of protected bike lanes to plan your route. The Seattle Bike Map shows all bike lanes and trails in the city. Start with a short commute and build up as you get more comfortable.