Here are some reasons why people bike to work compiled by the League of American Bicyclists. Go online at www.bikeleague.org for more information.
Why commute by bike
FIGHT POLLUTION
Automobiles produce toxic substances that pollute the ground, air and water.
Burning fossil fuels creates CO2 that contributes to global warming.
Automobiles also produce noise pollution.
STAY FIT
Bicycle commuting allows you to include your workout in your daily schedule.
Riding a bike instead of your car sitting in traffic is less stressful.
Staying in better shape will decrease your chances of getting sick.
AVOID TRAFFIC DELAYS
Off-road trails, bike lanes and wide curb lanes allow you to ride past traffic.
Bike commuting takes less time when you account for car parking and traffic.
Longer rides can result in less traffic and more enjoyment of your commute.
SAVE MONEY
Maintenance costs for your automobile will decrease, as will your gas bill.
You will save money on parking (and tickets).
You won't have to have a membership to a gym to workout.
ENJOY YOUR COMMUTE
Arrive at work refreshed and full of energy; ride off stress after work.
Commuting under your own power gives you a sense of accomplishment.
Take the long way home and ride through a park or along a local river.
Overcoming bike commuting excuses
Here are some answers to questions and concerns people might have about commuting by bike. These were compiled by the American League of Bicyclists. Go online at www.bikeleague.org.
I'm out of shape ...
Ride at an easy pace; In a few months, you will be in great shape.
Ride your route on a weekend to find the easiest way to work.
You will improve your fitness level when you become a regular bike commuter.
It takes too long ...
The average commuter travels at 10 mph; the more you ride, the faster you will get.
Trips of less than three miles will be quicker by bike.
Trips of five to seven miles in urban areas may take the same time or less as by car.
It's too far ...
Try riding to work and taking mass transit home, then alternating the next day.
Combine riding and mass transit to shorten your commute.
Ride to a coworker's house and carpool to work.
No bike parking ...
Look around for a storage area in your building or office.
Stash your bike in a covered, secure place such as a closet or even your office.
Formally request that your employer provide bike parking or lock it up outside.
My bike is beat up ...
Tell a reputable bike shop that you are commuting and have them tune up your bike.
If you can't maintain your bike yourself, identify bike shops near your route.
Make sure that your bike is reliable and in good working order before you start riding.
No showers ...
Most commuters don't shower at work; ride at an easy pace to stay cool and dry.
Ride home at a fast pace if you want a workout; shower when you get there.
Health clubs offer showers; get a discounted membership for showers only.
I have to dress up ...
Keep multiple sets of clothing at work; rotate them on days you drive.
Have work clothes cleaned at nearby laundromats or dry cleaners.
Pack clothes with you and change at work; try rolling clothes instead of folding.
It's raining ...
Fenders for your bike and raingear for your body will keep you dry.
If you are at work, take transit or carpool to get home; ride home the next day.
Take transit or drive if you don't have the gear to ride comfortably in the rain.
The roads aren't safe ...
Obey traffic signs, ride on the right, signal turns, stop at lights, wear bright clothing.
You are at no greater risk than driving a car.
Wear a helmet every time you ride.
I have to run errands ...
Bolt a rack to the back of your bike to add carrying capacity.
Make sure that you have a lock to secure your bike while you are in a building.
Allow yourself extra time to get to scheduled appointments and find parking.
Biking Safety
If you decide to jump on your bike, here are a few things to keep in mind as you bicycle in traffic, such as in downtown Huntington.
RIDE ON THE RIGHT: Bicyclists should ride with traffic and not against it.
BE PREDICTABLE: Don't suddenly swerve or stop.
BE VISIBLE: Wear bright, reflective clothing and use lights and reflectors in low-light situations.
DON'T BREAK THE LAW: Follow and obey traffic signs, signals and pavement markings,
SIGNAL: Let others on the road know when you are turning or stopping. Look over your left shoulder for traffic before you make a move.
WATCH OUT: Keep an eye out for pot holes, gravel and broken glass.
BE DEFENSIVE: Other people -- like those drivers talking on cell phones with a dog in their laps -- may not be looking out for you. Ride defensively and respectfully and yield to pedestrians.
For more information about bicycling and commuting, go online at www.bikeleague.org.
For the local hook-up on getting your bicycle tuned up or getting some new wheels, call or stop by Jeff's Bike Shop, 740 6th. Ave., 304-522-2453 or Huntington Bicycle Center, 623 Hal Greer Blvd., 304-525-5312.
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