There are plenty of reasons why bicycles are better than cars, which might explain why you're seeing so many cyclists out this summer. Biking has always been one of my favorite activities, and since I'm gearing up for the purchase of a brand spanking new bike – and since I have no car, ah thank you – I thought I'd go ahead and share some of the reasons why bicycles are better than cars. Take a look, see what you think, and maybe you'll trade your car in for a bike too – at least some of the time!
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They're Much Greener
One of the top reasons why bicycles are better than cars is unquestionably because bikes are greener. They don't leave any real carbon footprint, they give out no CO2 emissions, and they're generally better for the environment. They also don't wear down the road, meaning that they're actually better from a tax paying standpoint as well.
Cycling is also a fabulous way to reduce noise pollution and congestion on the streets. Imagine a morning commute filled with the gentle whirr of bicycle chains rather than the aggressive honking and fume-belching chaos! Plus, bicycles require far fewer resources to manufacture than cars, and they're almost always repairable, which extends their lifecycle and cuts down on waste. And let’s not forget, by choosing to pedal over pedal-to-the-metal, you’re personally contributing to a cleaner, more sustainable future. Isn’t that a breath of fresh air?
Plus No Gas Money
In addition to not giving off any CO2, you don't have to worry about gas. Ever. Given the cost of gas in most parts of the United States, at least, that's a huge blessing. All you have to do is fuel your body, which brings me to...
As if the environmental benefits of riding a bicycle weren’t enough, there are also a number of financial benefits that come with choosing to ride a bike instead of drive a car.
For starters, you don’t have to worry about gas money. The cost of gas in the United States can be quite high, and if you’re driving a car, you’ve got to factor that into your budget. With a bicycle, you don’t have to worry about it at all. All you need to fuel your body, and you’ll be good to go.
In addition to saving on gas, you can also save on car maintenance and repairs. Cars are expensive to maintain and repair, and if you’re driving a lot, you’re likely to have to take your car in for some kind of service or repair more often than if you were riding a bike.
Finally, you can also save on car insurance. If you’re only using your car for occasional trips, you may be able to get away with a more basic insurance plan, which can save you a lot of money.
Frequently asked questions
You Get Tons of Exercise
What kind of exercise do you get in a car, honestly? While there are actually some great fitness techniques you can use when you drive, whether you're in the car or parking away from your destination, bikes don't require anything special. You're toning your muscles, especially in your calves, thighs, and butt, just by pedaling. Fitness is a huge benefit, plus it's fun!
Riding a bike isn't just a leisurely pastime; it's a full-blown cardiovascular workout that enhances your heart health. Furthermore, cycling boosts your endurance and can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as obesity, heart disease, and diabetes. And let's not forget the mental health benefits. Pedaling away is as much a stress-reliever as a workout routine. The rhythmic nature of cycling allows you to settle into a soothing pace, clearing your mind and releasing endorphins. These are the natural feel-good chemicals that promote happiness and a sense of well-being.
Parking's Rarely a Problem
Did you know you can fit 10 bikes, at least, in the average parking spot? No longer will you have to drive around and around the block or up and down the parking garage, wasting gas as you try to find an empty space. Just make sure you have a sturdy lock for your bike – and probably don't try to park in an actual parking spot.
They're More Social
Bikes are also more social. You can stop riding and talk to people you pass. You can't really do that in cars, unless you pull off the road. Generally if you're trying to talk to someone at a red light or a stop sign, it's because someone's indulging in a fit of road rage.
Cycling gives you the delightful opportunity to be part of your surroundings. Imagine cruising by a bustling farmer's market or a spirited street fair- instead of zooming past, you can easily pull over and immerse yourself in the community vibe. The chance encounters and spontaneous conversations with locals add a rich layer to your social tapestry. Heck, even a smile exchanged with a fellow cyclist can foster a sense of camaraderie that's hard to replicate behind a windshield. Riding bikes isn't just transport, it's a way to connect and weave our lives into the local fabric.
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They're Much Cheaper
Bicycles are also exponentially cheaper than cars. Yes, you can get a fancy racing bike for thousands of dollars, but that's still cheaper than a car – unless you're buying a decades-old gas guzzler that will probably crap out on you within a month, and who needs that? Unless you're into racing or mountain biking, you can easily make do with a $100 bike from Target. Win!
Yes to Helmets, No to Insurance
You have to be safe when you ride your bike, but all in all, a helmet is much more affordable than insurance. You can't drive without insurance; you might get away with it, technically, in some states – until you get pulled over or, heaven forbid, have an accident. With a bike, your helmet and the right safety precautions are the best form of insurance.
As you can see, bikes definitely have their benefits. I still love driving, but since Heather takes the car to work and I hate driving by myself anyway (total phobia; got a speeding ticket and it scared me out from behind the wheel), I'm happy to bike it when I need to. What about you, are you a fan of biking?
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