In the city, there are many different transportation options. Most people drive, take a cab, or hop on public transportation like buses or trains. However, these can quickly become costly and aren’t the most efficient travel modes. Biking is becoming a more popular form of transportation, and we’ll discuss the top reasons for this growing trend below.
Reasons to Cycle in the City
Many people choose cycling as their preferred transportation mode because of its many benefits, which we will discuss in detail below.
1. Save Time
Biking may allow you to get to your final destination quicker. City streets are often congested, and it can be difficult to get anywhere on time, especially during rush hour. You have to compete with many other cars, which can be frustrating. When you take public transport, you may not fare better.
Buses are a part of the overall traffic patterns. Even with dedicated bus lanes, they still have issues navigating bumper-to-bumper traffic. Trains are often packed with travelers, and you may have to let several pass until you can enter. They are also frequently delayed, so you have to leave room for error.
When you bike, you don’t have to worry about these issues. Dedicated bike lanes provide a safe route for you to travel. They are often less congested with travelers, so you can move quickly no matter the time of day. As long as you plan your route effectively, you should not be impacted by road closures, traffic accidents, and other issues that cause delays.
2. Save Money
Outside the initial investment, bike riding will save you a lot of money. You won’t have to pay for gas, parking spots, cab fares, tips, train tickets, bus fares, and other transportation expenses. You can ride your bike for free, so other than purchasing the bike, helmet, lock, and additional accessories, your out-of-pocket cost for transportation will remain low.
You do have to adhere to the road rules. If not, you may be subject to fines and tickets. Make sure to lock your bike in a secure location. If not, it may be stolen. If you worry about your bike’s security, you can purchase a folding bike and take it with you at your final destination.
3. Provides Health Benefits
Cycling is an active form of transportation. It allows you to move from location to location, keeping your heart rate pumping. Cycling can help you lose weight, strengthen your endurance, contribute to joint health, and lower cholesterol. It also helps improve your balance and may even help prevent cancer. Cycling is a low-impact exercise that can have benefits similar to cardio. You can ride as slow or fast as you’re comfortable as you get into shape.
Cycling can even contribute to your overall mental health. It releases endorphins that can improve mood, reduce stress, and help you feel better. It’s a great way to start your morning on the right foot as you ride to work.
Cycling does come with risks. You are more likely to get seriously injured or harmed in an accident. About 1,000 people die from bicycle accidents annually in the United States, so you should wear protective gear and stay vigilant when you are riding your bike. This will help you stay safer when traveling and arrive at your final destination in one piece.
It’s up to you to determine if the health benefits of cycling outweigh the risk of danger.
4. Promotes Environmentally Friendly Travel
Biking is an eco-friendly way to travel. When you ride your bike instead of taking other transportation, you reduce your contribution to global warming. Cars, buses, trucks, and trains contribute to a city’s air pollution. Their emissions can negatively impact the city’s air quality, especially older cars or those that use diesel fuel.
You reduce the amount of carbon dioxide you release into the environment and the amount of harmful chemicals used. Antifreeze, oil, and other fluids in a car can harm the environment and contribute to global warming. When you bike, you don’t have to worry about these. If enough people biked, it could significantly reduce the environmental impact of transportation.
Wrapping Up - The Benefits of Cycling
Taking up cycling can have many positive benefits. You’ll be able to control your transportation and arrival times better, as you’ll no longer rely on traffic, timetables, and other factors.
Your costs will be front-loaded, and your out-of-pocket costs will remain low after the initial purchase. Outside of routine maintenance, your bicycle should last a long time.
Biking is also better for you as a whole. It can impact your overall health and reduce your carbon footprint. If you want a more eco-friendly way to travel, consider investing in a bike. You will notice a difference in your well-being when you’re more active.
