Modern technology has enabled us to work in many new ways. Telecommuting allows us to work from home and avoid the rush hour commute. Web-based collaborative services enable a distributed team to work on the same project, unhindered by geographical location. These new technologies are good and have improved our work lives. However, there are older technologies we’ve abandoned for the promises of the new. For example, the bicycle; a simple machine that can restore balance to your home and work life. Here are some reasons why you should hop back on your two wheeler and pedal your way to the office.
1. Gas prices
Gas is getting expensive. Really expensive. Cut down on your gas bill and save your money by riding to work. The bicycle gets infinity miles per gallon.
Use this calculator to find out how much money you could save each year:
http://www.sierraclub.org/MPG/
2. Exercise
Ask people why they don’t exercise as much as they would like to and they will tell you they don’t have the time. Riding your bike to work not only gets you from point ‘a’ to point ‘b’, it gets you a good dose of cardiovascular exercise, which ultimately helps you live longer. And it’s a lot cheaper than the gym.
3. Mental buffer
Work can be stressful. A ride in the morning and the post-work evening gives your mind some time to slow down and switch gears. You’ll arrive at your destination mentally refreshed and ready for the next thing.
4. Cheap maintenance costs
Bicycles are low maintenance. Keep the chain lubed and air in the tires and you should have few problems on the road. Aside from the occasional flat tire, the only work your bike will need is an annual tuneup.
5. Learn some mechanical skills
Bicycles are simple machines and are relatively easy to maintain with a few tools. Learning how to change a tire or adjust your brakes is empowering. Working on your bike is a great way to get away from the computers and other gadgets that crowd our lives.
6. Reduce traffic
Our freeways are getting crowded and its taking people longer and longer to get to work. Do your part to lighten the load and free yourself from the concrete river.
7. Reduce emissions
Everyone is talking about the planet getting hotter. Everything is melting. Bicycles have zero emissions and are more practical and way cooler than hybrids or carbon credits.
8. Less road rage
Nothing is sweeter than pedaling up to the front of a long line of cars waiting at the light. Sure, there is the occasional car honking at you to get out of the way, but the ability to defy traffic is worth it.
9. Community support
More and more communities are embracing bicycling and making efforts to improve the commute. New bike lanes, bicycle workshops, and other incentives are being promoted to cyclists. There has never been a better time to ride.
