Amenities for bikers are becoming increasingly common in city apartment buildings, but at Third North Apartments in the North Loop neighborhood there's a work room with controlled access for bicyclists stocked with tools, and the building is just blocks from the new extension to the Cedar Lake Trail. Several of the apartments have direct, first-floor access to the sidewalk, which makes taking your bike home with you effortless. Coming soon: Also in the North Loop, VELO (the French word for "bike") will specifically cater to two-wheeled commuters. 800 N. 3rd St., Mpls.; 612-371-0800; thirdnorthapartments.com