We all have read about the benefits of riding a bicycle instead of driving a car. Indeed, bicycling has many advantages besides exercise ? you don't need gas, bicycles don't pollute, and it provides your own cooling breeze.

As more cities are building bike trails, many people are discovering that bicycles are useful for more than recreation. With the simple addition of a rack over the rear wheel, you can use the bike for grocery shopping and other errands; such racks usually cost $25 to $50. Add bungee cords and you can strap your briefcase to the rack. For $40 to $150, you can add saddlebags, usually called panniers, to carry two grocery bags and even a change of clothes, if you are riding your bicycle to work.

When you bicycle, seek out the streets least used by cars. Bike trails often are faster and more convenient because there are no traffic lights ? or the cars they control ? to slow you down. And always wear your helmet. It is the cheapest health insurance you can buy.

To read more about the benefits of bicycling and some unique uses for bicycle power, search 'bicycling' at www.MotherEarthNews.com.