Biking in DC: Intro

I've learned just recently that I have a gazillion simple tips for cyclists and that I probably know the laws better than 95% of road users (or more?) in DC. Maybe it was the workshop I did a few weeks ago at Visions in Feminism or perhaps responding to a friend's advice on Facebook about bike lights that got me thinking. Whatever it was, it helped me realized that the tidbits that I've learned in the last 8 years because I've biked just about everywhere are potentially useful. I guess I never saw this as valuable information so I never thought to put it down in words. But perhaps I should just post some stuff here as a reference for my friends, and networks, who welcome the pointers.
(Meanwhile I'm thinking to myself, "Geez, what am I getting myself into?")

As a disclaimer, I am in no means telling you that what works best for me, works best for everyone. You need to figure out what works best for you. I also do not condone any of flagrant violations of traffic laws. Unnecessary risks are stupid. Don't take 'em.

While this blog series — Biking in DC — will be primarily in regards to the DC metro region. Much of it transfers over to other metro areas in the U.S. so I'm sure others would find it as useful as the locals.

Biking in DC:

1. Be Seen at Night
   
2. Be Heard