According to the U.S. Census Bureau's 2009 American Community Survey, Fort Collins ranks third among U.S. cities for percentage of its workers who regularly commute. In our city, 9.9 percent, or 7,776, of Fort Collins residents, commuting to work via bicycle most days.

As the days get shorter and cooler, many fair weather bicycle commuters get back into their cars only to leave the joy of riding to work behind them. But it doesn't have to be that way. We have the advantage of living in a bike-friendly city that provides an extensive and growing system of trails that are plowed quickly after a storm, sometimes even more quickly than the roads. It is possible to continue riding and stay safe and warm even on the coldest days of the year.

The two most important considerations for winter bicycle commuting are visibility and staying warm. There are four key pieces of equipment for maintaining excellent visibility during dark morning or evening commutes or on overcast days.

The first is a white headlight. Headlights are required by state law and city ordinance. If your commute is on well-lighted streets, a simple LED light will suffice. If you find yourself riding on unlighted trails, you might prefer a multiple LED light or a halogen light that lights up the road well as help you be seen.

By law, you also need a rear reflector. However, a rear light on blinking mode will dramatically improve your visibility. In addition to having reflectors on your wheels, there also are lights that go on your wheels. These lights will help improve visibility from the side, which is especially useful while crossing intersections.

Reflective outerwear also is a big plus. Manufactures are making jackets and other clothes with super reflective or illuminating designs. Some even have a light built built in to further improve visibility. When it comes to visibility, take no chances.

The other challenge with winter bicycle commuting is staying warm, specifically your hands and feet.

Consider using a mitten or lobster-type glove so your body heat can be better utilized. There also are burly gloves called Bar Mitts that are integrated into your handlebar. Don't forget shoe covers, which can help keep your feet warm and dry.

Sweat is your biggest enemy when riding in cold weather. Many people overdress and end up sweating, which causes them to be cold. Layering is the key to staying warm. The most critical layer of clothing is the base layer. Choose a wicking fabric for this layer next to your skin, which helps draw sweat away and allows you to dry more quickly. Expect to be a bit cold when you first start. As you pedal, you will generate body heat and warm up to a comfortable temperature in 10 to 15 minutes.

If you truly want to ride every day of the year, including in the snow, consider a set of studded bicycle tires. Just like studded car tires, these tires help with traction on snow and icy surfaces.

So just because summer is over, you don't have to store your bike for the winter and give up riding outside. With a little bit of extra gear and a desire to get outside, you should be able to keep riding even on the coldest days of the year. In addition to keeping up your fitness, you also will impress and hopefully inspire your car driving co-workers.

See you out on the trails.