Cycling seems to be a hot topic at the moment, particularly in the UK’s cities as more people are looking for cheaper and environmentally friendly ways to get around.
With the London Mayoral Elections taking place this week, cycling is a key issue in the capital at the moment. After Boris Johnson partnered with Barclays in 2010 to launch cycle docks across Central London, he is now going after the bicycle-loving voters with the promise of more cycle lanes and improvements to safety.
The popularity of Pashley Cycles and the hype around Mark Cavendish in the upcoming Tour De France are also leading us to wonder if the whole of the UK are cycling obsessed! But If you’re yet to make the leap from public transport onto your bike and not sure if the roads of Briton are ready for you, we promise to have you converted by the end of this post with the top 10 reasons for getting on your bike.
1. Don’t start off your day being squished on public transport:
We figured it’s the morning adrenaline rush that makes cyclists so happy. Whizz past traffic jams, rush to beat the big red bus, zip past cars – beats being crammed up in a rush hour tube with somebody’s chin on your shoulder and armpit in your face.
2. Wind in your hair and a smile on your face:
Starting your day free as bird with the wind in your hair, music in the air and a smile on your face can be extremely therapeutic and instantly puts you in a good mood. It also gives you good thinking time – rather than shoving your face into a book in order to avoid eye contact with other travellers
3. Stops global warming:
Cycling does wonders to Mother Earth. It helps to reduce your carbon footprint and with the recent hike in petrol prices and ridiculous queues at petrol stations, you don’t feel the pinch of any such hassles if you are a cyclist.
4. Carry anything home:
Forget all the worries of having to buy groceries and lugging them home. Particularly the worry of the bags splitting and all your food escaping down the road! Cycling means you can pack away all your items in a classic pannier or simply tie items to the rack on the back of your bike. Just be careful you don’t topple over.
5. Save money
Commuting within your city can be expensive on public transport. Cycling into work or anywhere else is cost-effective with no parking, petrol, or insurance charges. And if you don’t want to invest in a bike, and your in London you could always rent a Boris Bike to get started.
6. Late? Me, never!
Gone are those days where you had to rely on public transport and begin your morning cursing of the public transport officials and the frequency in your area. You can now depend on just yourself to get to your destination on time without any delays.
7. Legs of steel
Forget the gym membership or your circuit training classes, biking everyday can get you fit this summer. So whether it’s legs of steel or some serious calorie burning you are after then cycling is the answer.
Studies show that cycling protects you against heart disease, stroke, obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure and some cancers, while supporting healthy bones, muscles, joints and even sleep patterns.
8. Impress with your cycle skills
You can always stand apart from the crowd by being a cyclist. All your friends, family and colleagues will be impressed with your stamina and your bosses will be impressed by your dedication and passion. It’s always a good way to impress your fellow CitySocialisers too!
9. Explore your city
You may feel like you really don’t know much about your neighbourhood, let alone your entire city. Using the public transport means you miss some of the best undiscovered places like lovely pubs, green spaces you have never noticed, and new cafes and restaurants to try. If you are travelling underground, the only thing you get to see is black walls, sparks and lots of wires.
Being on a cycle gives you the flexibility to take off and see your city the way you want to see it. Stop for a photo of a scenic view or take your bike to one of the many cycle café’s popping up like Look Mum No Hands in London and Mud Dock in Bristol. You can grab a cup of coffee and get your bike serviced at the same time! Do you know any amazing spots in your city? Why not organise a cycle quest Social and share the joys with your local CitySocialisers.
10. Be a part of the cycle community and make new friends
Being a cyclist means you are instantly part of a strong community. To be a part of this community and make new friends all you have to have is the shared love for your bikes and determination to be a cyclist in the 21st century.
If you are a cyclist in your city let us know as we are constantly looking for Socials that are enjoyed by our wider group of CitySocialisers. Simply let us know on Twitter or Facebook, if you fancy organising a cycle themed Social.
Photos Courtesy: BikeNow.org / garryknight(Flickr)
