 ‘Why
do you ride a bike?’ I am always somewhat surprised at
how many people stop me and ask this question. Most
assume I’m trying to stay in shape, maintain my weight,
or stay healthy. All these are great bi-products of
riding. But that is not the reason I ride. I cycle
because I love it!
Bike riding is one of the greatest forms of
relaxation. I spend hours on my bike. I have come to
believe in all the benefits of riding, aside from those
associated with health.
Just think of the benefits:
- No motor vehicle expenses – gas prices,
insurance, note, repairs, etc.
- Always finding a parking space.
- Never having traffic delays going places.
- Quick and easy u-turns.
- Meeting new people while riding.
- Exploring the culture of an area, especially
away from home. Most cities have bicycle trails near
natural reserves, parks, and cultural centers. Most
are not accessible by car.
- Biking through these areas allow me to observe
my surroundings better and interact with the locals.
- Nowadays, with the streets more bicycle
friendly, bicycle-only lanes are making cycling
safer than ever.
- Plus it’s a great way to connect with the
environment. When you ride, you feel like part of
nature and it is part of you.
- Weather doesn’t even hinder me. Some think
that’s a little weird regarding the latter, but
that’s okay.
- and bikes require minimal maintenance.
In my life, bicycling is just as much spiritual as it is
physical. At times, I have gotten so caught up in my
riding that I forget I’m even on my bike. Hours pass
without a break. On some trails, I may find myself
riding at speeds beyond 20 mph without even being aware
of it. My mind feels incredibly clear and my body is in
sync with the rhythm and the motion of the tires
spinning beneath me.
When nightfall approaches I head home. When I finally
make it home and park my bike in the garage, I am
immediately aware of all the work I had done. My legs
feel like strong tree stumps. My mood is calm. I can’t wait to get
back out the next day.
So to answer the question of why I bike ride, I ask in
return, ‘Why not?’
Frankly, I can’t think of a better way to get around.
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