New Bike! I’ll be moving again in about a month, which means I’m going back to biking to work instead of walking. I already knew I could get some refunded cash for not having to use my company’s parking space, but Backpacker just informed me that bikers can also get some cold, hard cash for biking to work.

As part of the Bicycle Commuter Act — a piece of legislation that had been sitting in front of Congress before FINALLY taking effect this year — provides up to $20 for cycling related maintenance and repairs to employees who cycle to work. Tax free!

If you’re lucky, your company may offer other benefits to bikers. Google gives employees free bike tune-ups every month, while Discovery Communications will reimburse its employees $350 for the purchase of a bike.

All in all, I’m really looking forward to biking to work again. I missed starting my day with some fresh air and exercise. Getting an extra $240 is icing on the cake.

Check out the League of American Bicyclists web site for more info and a FAQ on how to make sure you’re getting your new Federal commuting benefits.

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by Casey Schreiner

Founder and Editor of Modern Hiker, Author of "Day Hiking Los Angeles." "Discovering Griffith Park," and "Cloud Spotting." Walking Meditator, Native Plant Enthusiast.