Go By Bike Month

Trek is deeming May as Go By Bike Month. In conjunction with our 1 World 2 Wheels program, Trek is encouraging all those subjected to $4 gas, a worsening environment, and horrid commutes (that means you) to take your shorter trips in the month of May by bicycle.  That grocery store you drive to is probably less than 2 miles from your house. Go by bike. That coffee shop with the mochas that make each Saturday morning worth looking forward to is probably less than 2 miles from your house. Go by bike. The post office where you'll be sending your taxes in next week is probably less than 2 miles from your house. Go by bike. And fast, you've got 5 more days people.

Now, I'm not one to get preachy. My high horse took off with my soapbox a while back but I have to be honest with you. 2 miles on a bike is nothing. Seriously. You could be the most out of shape person you know (God knows I am) and you can still ride a bike 2 miles. Most people will tell you it's a solution for the planet and this and that but I'm telling you to get off your butt and ride your bike a little. Don't think of what you'll save. Americans, as a people, are not good savers.  Americans are good at getting. If you need proof of that please refer to the Revolutionary War, Manifest Destiny, Louisiana Purchase, and exorbitant credit card debt. So let's talk about what riding a bike will get you:

- A better day. Riding a bike will change your day for the better, I promise.
- Fit. Riding a bike actually burns calories at a higher rate than driving a car. And you're less likely to pull through the drive-thru.
- A better attitude. Riding a bike = exercise. Exercise increases endorphins. Endorphins improve mood.
- Away. Dogs barking, kids are screaming, phone's ringing, tv's blaring. I'll bet you can't hear it from two miles away.
- A new outlook. Riding a bike gives you time to think. It may even give you time to reconcile.
- A better world. Think of yourself as one more solution.
- A rightfully deserved bigger ego. Driving an SUV is easy. Going by bike is a commitment.

I understand there are obstacles. Traffic is sketchy, there's limited bike parking, and it may still be cold where you live. Here's how to combat those. Start small and plan ahead. Ride around the block to get the legs warm today. Tomorrow ride around the neighborhood. The day after tomorrow, ride a mile from your house and back. Work up to it. Start now. By May you'll feel comfortable with the 2 miles distance and may even venture further. Map a route before the trip to avoid scary traffic spots and wear bright clothing. It's spring after all. If it's still a bit frosty there are two key items you'll want. Windproof gloves and a scarf. I know it seems simple but those are the two things that'll keep you comfy.

Nobody's saying you have to throw your car keys in the garbage disposal. Just think twice when you pick them up. If Pavlov could make dogs salivate just by ringing a bell, surely the jingle of keys can trigger your thought process. How far are you going? do you really NEED the car? Can the few things you're picking up fit into a backpack, purse, or basket? If you ask yourself those three questions you might be surprised at the answers. If you're curious on what it takes, check out the tips on our 1 World 2 Wheels site or send me a comment. You can just call me Niccoret cause I'm here to help you kick the habit.

Comments

[nick]

I sold my care 3 weeks ago because of gas prices and bought a nice road bike from my local Trek dealer and man I have about a 30 minute commute on the bike but it has been amazing how much money I have saved, how much better I feel and how much freaking fun it is to ride.

[Hootie, The Bike Lane Blog Guy]

Nick, first of all, congrats. that's just plain awesome. you also touch on something i didn't talk about enough. riding a bike IS fun. driving a car under 100 mph is not fun. it's tedious and boring. also, selling your car will give you enough cash for a Sa-Weet bike. congrats again and keep riding!

[Sue]

I forgot to tell the guy thinking my folder behind my desk was expensive just how much cheaper than a car it is.

How to get regular folks out riding - that's the question ;)

[Greg]

I have a 520 that I put a front rack onto.then I bought 4 of the biggest panniers I could find.I've given up the car for trips any less than 5 miles one way.People give you crazy looks at the grocery store when you ride off with a week worth of food, or show up at the laundrymat to do a week worth of laundry.Full fenders and cross tires allowed me to stick to this program all through a WI winter.Snow and ice really sharpen the handling skills as well.