A Nod to Philly Bikers

Over dinner last night, a friend told me that she recently started riding a bike around the city and is really enjoying it.  Her new-found love affair with biking caught her off guard because she had always been intimidated by cyclists.  Aren’t they afraid of getting hit by crazy Philly drivers?!?

But her fear has been conquered, “It’s like you’re in a video game! I can get everywhere in over half the time!”

Her experience got me thinking that others who have decided biking as a form of transportation isn’t for them may want to reconsider.

Here’s a few reasons why:

• A good bike is by no means cheap (I’m currently shopping around for one) but gas prices are still heinous. Most of us are lucky to pull away from the pump dishing out less than $55. On top of gas, car payments and maintenance are quite pricey.  A bike’s maintenance is a cheaper option so you don’t have to worry much about output costs.
• Mayor Nutter’s ’08 campaign promises to the Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia for a bike-friendlier Philly include:
  – Establish free and clear bike lanes that close gaps in the existing bike lane network, paying particular attention to connecting the Schuylkill and Delaware Rivers
  – Regularly maintain existing bike lanes
  – Improve bicycle access on Schuylkill and Delaware River bridges
• You’re cutting down on city pollution. Check out http://webapps.phila.gov/aqi/ for daily info on Philadelphia’s air quality. Even a yellow code (moderate level of concern) should be motivation to cut back on your output.
• Miles Per Gallon = Infinity. (Reduce your carbon footprint!)
• It’s great exercise. You’re never going to build the lean muscular legs you want sitting in your car.
• Plus, no traffic to slow you down & waste time.

Doesn’t that sound appealing?

Posted by Beth