My Five Reasons to Ride a Bicycle

May is National Bike Month, sponsored by the League of American Bicyclists and celebrated in communities from coast to coast. Established in 1956, National Bike Month is a chance to showcase the many benefits of bicycling — and encourage more folks to ride a bicycle.

As an avid cyclist, I like to promote this month as a public service. There are a lot of people, vehicles, and hazards on the road. This month, please be especially aware of your surroundings and safely share the road with pedestrians, bicyclists, motorcycles, automobiles, school buses, and everyone else trying to get from his/her “Point A” to “Point B.” In the spirit of National Bike Month, I  present my Five Great Reasons to Ride a Bicycle!

To save money.

Have you ever really thought about your options for transportation? Many people drive an automobile. Some people ride a bus. Carpool. Taxi. Uber. Walking. Bicycling. Most of these methods cost money, consistently. Gas is not free. Vehicle maintenance costs money. Bus pass. Taxi fees. Uber. While there is an up-front cost of buying a bicycle and tune-ups every now and then, there isn’t as much consistent spending to pedal your way to the office.

To be healthier.

I personally started cycling to be healthier. I needed to loose weight and exercise. I was also stressed out, most of the time. Today, I live a much more active lifestyle. While weight control is a constant battle, the reduced stress from exercise and cycling is automatic. There is also the release of endorphins. These brain chemicals aid in the relaxation and reduction of stress. It is the same concept as a runner’s high or Adrenalin rush.

To have fun.

There are many times when it is just fun to be on a bicycle. Whether you are riding with friends, enjoying a solitary couple of miles, or experiencing Nature on a mountain bike trail. At first, you’ll remember times as a kid and the nostalgia will be present. As you spend more time on you bike, new memories and experiences will become the focus.

To enjoy the weather.

Most people spend a lot of time indoors during the week because of work. I like to savor those odd times outside. A morning ride to work, for me, is often cool and crisp with the sun rising. An evening ride home is a completely different experience with the sun starting to set. Sun. Wind. Birds. Trees. Flowers. It’s a great time of year to be outside.

To support the greater cycling community.

This time of year especially, I like to ride to support the greater cycling community. The more people who ride, help the mode of transportation to become more favorable and more recognized.

Cyclists are held to the same vehicle laws as motorized vehicles. When you are cycling on the road, obey the law and stay safe. If you are driving and see a cyclist, give them room and slow down.

 Cyclists aren’t there to hinder your travel.
They are there because of their own 5 reasons.

They are a Husband, Father, Brother, Son, or Grandfather to someone.

They are a Wife, Mother, Sister, Daughter, or Grandmother to someone.

Always share the road safely.

For more information about National Bike Month, visit the League of American Bicyclists.