Fed up with paying too much for gas? Want to learn more about bicycle commuting to work? Are you already a bicycle commuter looking for ways to make your commute easier? Need ideas of what bicycle accessories to ask for this holiday season?

Team Bank of America's Environmental Network is hosting the second in a regular series of Chicagoland Bicycle Federation "brown bag" lunchtime roundtable discussions on bicycle commuting noon to 1 p.m. Friday, Dec. 9, in the 13N conference room of the Bank of America building, 231 S. LaSalle St. Attendees are asked to bring their own lunch. Visitors must check-in with security in the lobby, present some form of identification, sign-in, and wear a visitor's badge.

"Bicycles are back mainly because the increase in gas prices has made them a better way to get around," said Randy Warren, program director at the Chicagoland Bicycle Federation. "We want to help people make informed decisions about commuting."

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce says more bicycles than cars were sold over the past 12 months, as rising gas prices prompt commuters to opt for two wheels instead of four. The average price of gas in the U.S. has increased 47.3 percent in a year, according to the American Automobile Association.

Seasoned bicycle commuters will share commuting tips and tricks at this informal discussion on topics such as route selection, clothing choices, riding in the fall and winter months, how to carry things to and from work by bike, looking good upon arriving at work and more.

"Riding a bike instead of driving is practical on a variety of fronts," said Chicagoland Bicycle Federation Executive Director Rob Sadowsky. "Above all it's the higher price of gas, but also it's concern for the environment and the cost of another car."

For more information about the Dec. 9 roundtable and future dates, contact Randy Warren at (312) 427-3325, ext. 221, or visit www.biketraffic.org .