Putting the TRANS back in my Sportation!
From the time I turned 10 years old, I have been in love with riding my bicycle. I've ridden, raced, trained and commuted on a bicycle. I've worked in bike shops, run teams, coached cyclists... I just love the sport of cycling. The thing is, the bicycle wasn't really invented to be a sport. It was invented to be a mode of transportation. A way to get around that was more efficient than walking along whistling Dixie.
Unfortunately, many people have forgotten that and opt to drive in a car wherever they go. They think of cycling as something they can do on a nice day for a couple hours of exercise. I'm not saying there is anything wrong with recreational riding, but why not be able to get someplace on your bike?
As much as I love cycling, there is something extra special about riding my bike to work. I enjoy leaving my car at home, getting out there, saving gas and burning calories. It's just awesome. My commute is no "joy ride" though. On a good day, it takes me about an hour each way on some not so friendly roads.
In my 30 plus years of cycling, I've learned a lot of things to help me share the road. As I use these skills, I am able to save over a gallon of gas every time I ride (that's a $4 pay raise!) not to mention the wear and tear on my car. I arrive at work with a fresh attitude and a better outlook on life. The only thing that makes me sad while I am out on the road, is that I almost NEVER see another person commuting on a bike. Think about this for just a minute. if everybody just committed themselves to using a commute alternative just ONE day a week, you would see:
- 20% less traffic
- 20% less air pollution
- 20% less wear and tear on your car
- A healthier community
- A greater appreciation for cyclist and pedestrians as you would know they are helping!
Think about it! I highly recommend you put some TRANS back in your sportation! If that doesn't work for you - hike, carpool or work from home! Be creative. Help me change the world, one commute at a time!
Scott Patton lives in Marietta. Bike to Work Week in Atlanta is May 16-20, 2011
Comments
Bike to Work Week
Tuesday May 17 2011 06:56:30 pm
susanfrae Rae
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