There’s more to everyday biking than just riding a bike. These are my top five.
Transport – Dedicated cycle paths are common. Transport departments provide maps. GPS uploads are available. Google Map searches provide suggested cycle routes. It’s fantastic.
I’m a big fan of back streets, paths, parks, alleyways, trails, under-passes and bridges. These are the routes that make cycling fun, like it was when we were kids.
Competing with motor vehicles for space on the road can get us killed, don’t do that.
Exercise – The long term results are awesome : less body fat, nice calves, a great butt, more stamina, and a general healthy appearance.
Cycling forces our heart and lungs to work, and to pump blood and oxygen through our body. Of course we also need to eat and sleep sensibly too.
Cost – Yeah I know the purchase price for a descent bike can be a bit expensive but good gear always is. Now think about maintenance, repairs, insurance, fuel, parking space, etc, and you know there’s nothing to complain about.
Situational Awareness – On any route we deal with moving vehicles, pedestrians, gutters, stairs, car exhaust, sounds, weather, hidden driveways, etc. Riding forces us to be aware of our surroundings.
Situational awareness requires us to assess a reasonable base-line, and then respond (or not) to anything we think might deviate from that base-line.
It’s a habit for cops and soldiers but it’s also a great biking habit to have. You could avoid an accident, or even save a life. Here’s a fun article to help develop Situational Awareness.
They get stolen ! – It’s horrible but it happens. A lot. Take precautions !
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