One of my neighbors uses a bike for work, recreation, and errands. And he has biked forever. He actually owns two bikes. He keeps one as a backup. I have seen him occasionally downtown in all kinds of weather; even during winter. And lately I have been pondering? Why not bike?
Since the time when my auto was totaled, about a year and half ago, I have been building up a "car fund" putting money into my credit union. My thinking was that I could put down a large down payment. But now I find that I have become comfortable in using public transportation. Also, because of the economy, I have grown cautious about parting with my savings. Along with setting aside money, I have saved a chunk of change not buying gasoline and all the other stuff that comes with maintaining a vehicle. I have been walking more. Given that bikes are transported by the buses, biking seems to be a reasonable and fun way to get around town more without using a taxi. I said something to my doctor about biking in town as a way of transportation, and she was concerned due to all the traffic. There is a designated bike trail, but I want to use a bike to get to work and back. I have figured that I could avoid the congested traffic routes and use quieter streets to get to work. I have already mapped out a route to and from work. Biking with a backpack seems like more freedom in getting around. Of course, there could be consequences: the potholes, the weather, cracked sidewalks, cranial injuries, avoiding pedestrians, somersaulting over a curb, who knows?
On the postive side, I like the choice of going off the main route, parking my bike and shopping at a drug store, going to the farmer's market, or getting to a grocery. I could of course wear a bike helmet. It would be easier to visit friends. The main reason would be, not having to rely on the bus schedule, especially on Sundays. In addition, there is the beautiful benefit of exercise.
I sometimes think it was meant for that 85-year-old lady who was "dizzy" out driving her Silverado crashing into my car. I have learned to adapt. I have learned that you can do without and still be happy. I have learned that I overused my vehicle. I have learned how much more interesting it is to see my everyday world up-close in a different way. I have learned to meet people that I would have never met before. I have also become more compasionate to those who do without a lot more that I do.
On the postive side, I like the choice of going off the main route, parking my bike and shopping at a drug store, going to the farmer's market, or getting to a grocery. I could of course wear a bike helmet. It would be easier to visit friends. The main reason would be, not having to rely on the bus schedule, especially on Sundays. In addition, there is the beautiful benefit of exercise.
I sometimes think it was meant for that 85-year-old lady who was "dizzy" out driving her Silverado crashing into my car. I have learned to adapt. I have learned that you can do without and still be happy. I have learned that I overused my vehicle. I have learned how much more interesting it is to see my everyday world up-close in a different way. I have learned to meet people that I would have never met before. I have also become more compasionate to those who do without a lot more that I do.
