photo credit: Thomas Hawk
“Every time I see an adult on a bicycle, I no longer despair for the future of the human race” — H.G. Wells
Today kicks off the start of National Bike to Work Week. What a great opportunity to give biking a try. Among it’s many benefits:
- Great exercise. Get some exercise, and get to work! A win-win situation. You’ll start you’re day refreshed. And, after a little exercise, it’s hard to feel angry – not always the case after a stressful car ride in.
- Save money on gas. A great way to save some $$$ on gas.
- See some great sights. If you’re in the country biking, you’ll see nature and wildlife. Urban biking is great for viewing those things you cruise by in your car every day and don’t pay attention to.
- Help the environment. Riding a bike helps to lower the emissions we put into our atmosphere, helping to protect this world we live in.
It’s important to remember, though, that you are smaller than the cars out on the road. Ride defensively, and keep an eye open for what lies ahead of you. Safety is important. Protect your head – wear a helmet.
Today, I’d like to focus on the cost benefits of biking.
I bike somewhere between one and three times a week to work. It’s a nine mile ride one way. Taking in the cost of gas in our area (currently $3.85/gallon), and wear and tear on the car, I estimate I save close to $4.50 each day that I ride my bike. And this does not take into account any residual health benefits that will down the road in life make the cost of any potential health care I might need lower due to being in better physical condition. Cost savings alone should make biking at least a consideration for anyone who lives within a few mile of their work location.
So why not give it some thought? Or, maybe even try it once. Start small – bike to the local grocery store to pick up a few things (you can carry a backpack for storage). Or check out a local bike path. You’d be surprised at how good it feels to get out there and move!
Tomorrow we’ll look at the “start up” costs to get out and do some biking, and what kind of expenses you might have along the way.
Until then, happy biking!
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Thanks for spreading the word on National Bike Week! Found it through Digg.
Some friends and I started a bike week: ‘Bonedale Bike Week – Carbondale without a “Car”
This morning we served coffee to about 20 bike commuters. Tonight we have a bike maintenance clinic at the local shop. We’re rounding the week out with a cruiser ride and ‘bike-in’ movie. Should be fun!
Thanks for stopping by Jess!
Biking is great, I can’t help but spread the word.
Have a great time at your events.
Thanks for making this a little more known. I will ride my bike all week, already did today to start it off on Monday.
Thanks Mike! Enjoy the rides this week. I rode in today, a great morning here for biking!