Why commute by bicycle

The best way to get to work is by bicycle. There is no doubt in my mind about that, at least if you live within 20kms of your workplace. Even further away, bicycle commuting can still be worthwhile.

Reasons I think commuting by bicycle is so good are as follows.

1. You will save money. Petrol, car maintenance, bus and train tickets, all cost money. Yes, maintaining your bike can cost money, but you can easily learn to do it yourself. Even if you use a bike shop, it is still much cheaper than other transport costs.

2. You will get a lot of incidental exercise. This means you don't have to go to the gym to pay money to sit on a stationary bike. One of the major reasons that our society is now becoming more and more overweight is due to the reduction in incidental exercise. The other reason is diet related, which bicycle commuting won't really help you with.

3. It is often faster. If you are travelling in peak hour traffic you will easily beat motor vehicles in most cases. Around the CBD in particular.

4. Parking is easier. You can usually park your bike directly outside where you are heading. Often your workplace will allow you to bring it inside. You never have to pay for bike parking.

5. Less stress. You are riding smoothly, without stopping and starting, and cursing the traffic. You will find that you just feel more relaxed during your commute, and especially once you arrive at your destination. When you get to work, you will feel invigorated, and will not be sleepy.

6. See people and be a part of your community. You will see people watering their gardens, and riding their bikes.

7. Learn about the nice quiet streets in your area. You won't have to sit on freeways and highways. Instead you'll most likely be riding down quiet streets without much traffic. You should plan your route well by using online resources such as bikely to ensure that you have an optimal route. Share your route on bicycle forums so people can comment on it and perhaps suggest improvements.

8. Convenient. You are not at the mercy of traffic delays, bus and train cancellations, or a timetable. You can leave when you like. You can also take the bike around with you if you go out to dinner after work, and leave when you please.


The biggest obstacle to bicycle commuting is fear. Plan your route, research bicycle commuting, and ensure that your bicycle is in good working condition. Try ride with somebody else at first. You can easily find someone on bicycle forums who would be willing to ride with you, if they are on a similar route to work.

Once you start you won't be able to stop! :)