Hot summer gas prices have made bicycle stores a cool place to be.

Ringing bicycle bells are taking the place of car horns. Some drivers say increasing gas prices are forcing four-wheel veterans to consider an old two wheel friend.

"The gas prices are getting a little steep and to be able to ride a bike in about the same time it takes to drive," said CycleWorks owner Chris Sonderup.

Sonderup said he has seen a boost in sales, but the big surge in bike sales will not come up until people realize gas prices are not coming down.

"It has gone up somewhat, but it has not been a wholesale spike. I think because a lot of people are spending their extra dollars for fuel, we will see that down the road as they adjust and adapt to it, and save for it a little bit more. We are definitely seeing an increase in business and we are happy about that,'' said Sonderup.

Besides high gas prices, Sonderup said having a bike in Lincoln is a treat in itself with the Capital City's great bike trail system.

Sonderup said all you have to do is get the bike that is right for you.

''If you get the right-size bike, one that is set for what you want to use it for, not just any old bike, you are to be more likely to commute and ride it for exercise more often,'' Sonderup said.

Denise Hayden found the right bike and she said, ''I feel great. It is like being a kid again. I'm really enjoying it . It's really a cool bike and it's just fun. That's all it is too, it's just fun.''

Sonderup said a good bike with good equipment should cost between $300 to $500.