Keep your tires inflated

While, I don't drive very much, I do ride bicycles almost everyday- Midwest weather permitting.

A great way to increase efficiency in both modes of transport is to ensure that your tires are properly inflated.

In fact, US The Department of Energy estimates that under inflated tires waste more than two million gallons of gasoline a day. Uneven inflation across your tires can also cause a safety issue as it may pull your vehicle to one side or the other.

For cars, proper inflation info is in either the manual or on a sticker affixed to the inside of the driver's side door. The rule of thumb to fill tires up to 32 lbs, is somewhat a fallacy as evidenced by my little car that has different recommended pressures for the front and rear. This is most likely due to the fact that there is a weight bias towards the front end of the car- so consult your model specific sticker.

Take your handheld pressure gauge, start your car and drive directly to the gas station and check the tire pressure while the tires are cold as this will give you a more accurate reading. Add air as necessary to get to the recommended pressure. Doing this on at least a monthly interval is a good rule of thumb.

With bicycles, it is a good idea to check the pressure before each ride as bike tires can lose air much more quickly in my experience. Also, it is very easy to get puncture while tooling around and it is better to discover that before you get on the bike.

Here, due to the massive amount of variation, just consult the sidewall of each tire on your bike for recommended pressure. I say this as I have at least one bike that has different off road tires on it that runs different pressure on each tires. Inflate as necessary and RIDE!

Having tires inflated will provide a safer, more efficient car ride and a more enjoyable and safe bike ride where more of your pedal stroke is put down to the pavement.