You ride around the city and seawall comfortably and with style. You handle the bike routes and boulevards smoothly and always ride with courtesy for the other road users. It causes you no consternation to load your bike on the bus rack, nor do you fluster on SkyTrain platforms because you know just what to do.

Even winter riding doesn’t daunt you. Why should it? You’re prepared: the savvy year-round commuter cyclist.

Raindrops bead together on your sleeve and slide easily off again, falling to the ground as you ride through the puddles. Your fenders are almost long enough to touch the pavement and you hold your helmeted head high while you wait for the light to change to green. Motorists can see you thanks to your lights flashing in the dreary drizzle. They appreciate your hand signals and aren’t surprised by your actions, so traffic flows smoothly and you arrive at work, wet but energized. Sound appealing?

The most important part of biking for transportation is recognizing the necessities. You’ll save money by driving less, so invest in the gear and equipment that will make your ride great. You will need:

• Layers of breathable, waterproof clothing that keeps you covered up. Rain pants and coat are obvious items, but there’s gear to keep your shoes, helmet, hands and briefcase dry, as well as under layers that keep you from getting too cold and natural fabrics that keep you from getting too hot.

• Lights, lights, lights, reflective gear and bright colors. Mornings are dark and so are the evenings. Even the most conscientious drivers get distracted, so attract their attention and make sure you’re not a surprise.

• Extra time when you arrive at work. Not everyone has the luxury of a shower and change room at their workplace, but regardless of the facilities, bring what you need to change from road-ready to work-wear. Can you keep extra clothing or shoes at the office? If not, you’ll have to carry it with you; a towel, hairbrush, cosmetics, extra socks and a warm sweater. Anything else? Your kit will change as you become more experienced, but try to think ahead.

• Dedication and enthusiasm. The hardiest among us get discouraged by a deluge. Remind yourself of how great it feels to arrive at the office under your own power and the exhilaration of propelling yourself through city streets. Keep in mind that you’re doing something great for the environment and good for your health, and that your friends and co-workers – seeing your new lifestyle – might be inspired to try it too. You could be their roll model! And finally, remember, the benefits of biking to work aren’t diminished if you miss a day. Even riding two or three days a week, or combining your ride with transit, will still reduce your greenhouse gas emissions, improve your health and save you money.

Visit your favorite bike store and ask them for recommendations or talk to other riders about what they’ve liked and more importantly, what they haven’t. The Vancouver Area Cycling Coalition (VACC) Bike to Work November is a great time to get out there, and the VACC website, www.vacc.bc.ca, has more information about tips, tricks, courses, rides and the advocacy work that makes Metro Vancouver a great place to ride.