Folding bicycle brings flexibility to transportation

Thursday, 5/12/11 - 1:38 pm

Have you ever thought, "I could save money getting to work if only the bus/MAX stop wasn’t so far away?" Transit can provide transportation for most trips, but the first and last miles (or whatever short distance applies) keep many from taking advantage of this otherwise cheap and efficient transportation.Consider the folding bicycle as a solution. Depending on the model, it requires only 15 to 30 seconds to fold or unfold. It is rarely out of sight of the rider and rarely stolen. Is the bus bike rack full or are you traveling on MAX during rush hour? This will not be a problem. Fold up the bicycle and tuck it under the seat. Unfold it and ride the last mile or so to work or home. A folding bicycle along with a transit pass provides flexibility and reliability all on a cost-conscious budget.

Learn how to use a folding bike

Learn how safely to get around the region by bike 

Information courtesy of Metro's Drive Less/Save More Commuter Dispatch

 

May is National Bike Month. Visit the League of American Bicyclists website at www.bikeleague.org/programs/bikemonth/ for a guide to National Bike Month that includes ideas for events, how to celebrate National Bike-to-Work Day and more about bicycle economics.

 Bicycle Economics 101

A gallon of gasoline might cost as much as $9 if it included the real cost of driving automobiles. That is because other taxes cover the costs of road building, maintenance, parking space, police services and losses from accidents, pollution and congestion. If more commuters bicycled, these costs would go down. All taxpayers, businesses and citizens would save money.

More bicycle use means a smaller carbon footprint. Autos are the single largest source of air pollution in the United States. Short trips are up to three times more polluting per mile than long trips. Substitute bicycling for short auto trips and reduce your carbon footprint by 3.6 pounds of pollutants per mile.

Ten bike commuting excuses and solutions:

  1. I am out of shape. Ride at an easy pace. You will improve your fitness level when you become a regular bike commuter.
  2. It takes too long. Trips of less than three miles are quicker by bike. Trips of five to seven miles in urban areas may take the same time or less than by car because bicycles can utilize bike paths to move past congestion.
  3. It's too far. Combine riding and mass transit to shorten your commute. Ride to a coworker's house and carpool to work.
  4. No bike parking. Find a storage area in your building or office. Formally request that your employer provide bike parking.
  5. I do not own a bike. Driving a car costs the average family over $700 each month. A new bicycle and gear will pay for itself in a few weeks.
  6. No showers. Most bike commuters do not shower at work. Ride at an easy pace to work to stay cool and dry.
  7. I have to dress up. Pack clothes with you and change at work. Try rolling clothes instead of folding.
  8. It's raining. Fenders for your bike and raingear for yourself will keep you dry.
  9. The roads are not safe. Obey traffic signs, ride on the right, signal turns, stop at lights and wear bright clothing. Wear a helmet every time you ride.
  10. I have to run errands. Bolt a rack to the back of your bike to add carrying capacity. Make sure you have a lock to secure your bike.