Go Cycle.. Go Green.. Go Healthy!
by 
Varun Sharma
March 29, 2009
Varun Sharma
March 29, 2009 Here’s are the responses to some classic excuses when it comes to bicycling to work!
I am thinking of making a bikers’ group in Wipro. Anyone game?
- I’m out of shape.
If you choose an easy pace, you’ll find cycling no more strenuous than walking. Do a trial run on a weekend. You can ease your way into better shape and maintain it once you’ve become a regular bicycle commuter. I’ve seen many people using their two/four wheeler for going to gym just to run treadmill! What a waste of fuel & money for that, you can simply make bicycling as your mode of transport and save on gym cost as well as reduce your carbon footprint!
- It takes too long.
The average bike commuter travels 10 m.p.h. in traffic. In urban areas cycling generally takes less time than driving for trips of three miles or less—and about the same time for three to five mile trips. On longer trips you might still save time if you combine exercise with commuting.
- It’s too far.
If you live too far from work for a practical bike commute, consider cycling to the bus, train, or a coworker’s house and carpooling. Or, drive part of the way and bike the rest.
- There’s no place to park.
With a little research, you can almost always find a bike parking solution:- Store your bike at work in a covered, secure place like a closet or storage room.
- Existing bike parking in nearby buildings or garages.
- If your employer doesn’t provide parking, make a formal request with other employees.
- Park outside, but use two good locks. A U-lock and a 1/2” cable are best.
- My bike is a clunker.
Fancy bikes attract thieves. As long as your clunker is mechanically sound and fits correctly, you have a commuter bike. If you can’t maintain it yourself, bring it to a good bike shop. Good maintenance is important when you rely on your bike to get you to work on time.
- My job requires professional attire.
Some bike commuters ride in their business attire and still look good when they get to work. Others ride in casual or cycling clothing and change when they arrive. If you carry your work clothes, you can prevent wrinkles by rolling instead of folding in a backpack, pannier (bike bag), or a pannier-like garment bag. Or, you can keep several outfits at work, carrying clothes back and forth on days you don’t ride, or take your clothes to a cleaner near your office.
- There’s no place to shower.
Most bike commuters don’t shower at work. Commuting is different than fitness cycling so it need not be a sweaty affair. If you like to ride hard and get a good workout but can’t find a shower where you work, try a nearby health club. Alternately as already mentioned above, you can also change clothing after reaching office.
- What if it rains?
It’s easiest to start as a fair weather bike commuter. A rain jacket and fenders can usually keep you dry. When you have some experience, you can experiment with different types of rain gear.
- Traffic just isn’t safe.
It can be scary riding in traffic, especially for beginners. Talk to other cyclists in your office about routes they take. Minimize your risk by obeying traffic laws and riding visibly and predictably. Always prefer to wear a helmet, and wear visible clothing.
- My friends will all laugh at me.
No, they won’t. If they do, they’re just jealous. Try getting them to bike to work with you. If that doesn’t work, ignore them and enjoy your new-found freedom. Be proud of yourself for contributing to the safety of environment.
Tags: Health Fitnes
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