Celebrating the Bike
Ask anyone who cycles and they’ll tell you it’s more than just a sport or a form of exercise. For true cycling enthusiasts, riding is a way of life. And biking doesn’t just have to be for fun – it’s also an excellent alternative to get you where you need to go. Biking has a number of benefits not only for you personally, but also for the environment! It is so beneficial that May has been dubbed Bike Month. There are different activities throughout the month, which bicyclists around the world can participate in bringing the community closer no matter the geographical distance of its members. One such event is Bike to Work Day and this year it falls on May 18th (May 14th to 18th is Bike to Work Week, if one day isn’t enough for you). So dust off those seats, pump up your tires and join the thousands who will be biking to work. Make sure to wear your helmet, give a wave to fellow riders and have fun!
To get in the spirit, here are a few reasons why 2 wheels is the way to go.
Environmentally friendly
In this day and age, it’s important that everyone do their part to reduce the carbon footprint they are leaving on the earth. Our environment is suffering from all the pollution and fuel consumption. Cycling is the most energy efficient mode of transportation. No fuel means no noise and no pollution. If you want to make a difference in the world around you, biking is a simple way to do so.
Stay fit and healthy
Cycling is one of the best ways to stay in shape because it works so many muscles in your body. It’s especially beneficial while traveling because it lets you taste all the delicious (but fattening) cuisine without worrying about gaining weight. Biking is also much easier on your joints than other forms of exercise, like walking or jogging. Plus, it’s been proven to release stress making it good for both spirit and mind.
Easier to see the sites
Ever try to stop and see the sites while riding in a car or a taxi? There’s the hassle of finding a place to park, avoiding other traffic and just stopping and going in general. When you’re on a bike, you have the freedom to stop anywhere you’d like, for as long as you want. You can also explore areas you couldn’t in a vehicle since with bikes you don’t necessarily need a road, just a path and some ambition. You don’t have to worry about parking and you’ll never find yourself stuck in a miserable traffic jam.
Cheaper
Renting a vehicle can be pretty expensive, as can the cost to maintain it during use. From insurance to fuel to parking fees, when all is said and done a car rental can really eat into your travel budget. Cycling is an excellent alternative because it’s inexpensive and doesn’t cost anything to maintain. You don’t need to worry about the cost of fueling up. You are the fuel!
Fun
What’s more fun than hitting the trails, getting your blood and adrenaline pumping and feeling the wind in your face? Cycling is gratifying and something that can be done just about anywhere your travel takes you. It’s also a great activity to do as a family or with a group of friends. And, as any cyclist knows, meeting another biker on the road creates an atmosphere of instant camaraderie. Biking allows you to experience spontaneity and adventure that you could never achieve in the confines of a vehicle.
