Cycling in the City - The Pros and Cons

With changing global circumstances such as increasingfuel and also not paying high rates for parking.
fuel costs, traffic and high fees for parking, there hasCons: In West Coast cities and those with milder
been a change in how people get around, whether totemperatures, cycling is a year-round activity enjoyed
work or appointments or even to grocery stores. Oneby many, especially the hardy who bike in the winter
of the means of transport that has gained support ismonths. Biking in the city can be a dangerous activity.
cycling. In many major cities and surrounding areas theInadequate laws can be problematic to cyclists.
push for cycling lanes and laws to protect bikers hasCurrently, other than owning a bike little else is required
grown in popularity and more and more people haveby law to outfit cyclists. Most states and provinces do
taken to the streets with two wheels instead of four.not require helmets, reflective clothing and the
There are however both pros and cons which allknowledge of signals. Cars and other vehicles also do
cyclists and drivers should consider.not require knowledge of bike signals either which can
Pros: Cycling is one of the best means of transit. Notbe confusing and dangerous for cyclists. Many people
only is it better for the environment, healthier for thewho ride bikes are very courteous and respect the
rider and less costly than driving. Most buses arerules of the road, especially in a city setting which can
outfitted with bike racks and other modes ofbe very dangerous at rush hour. There are
transportation such as subways generally allow a fewoccasionally cyclists who disrespect the rules by taking
bikes per car for those people commuting from longernon-cycling routes which can be deadly as narrow
distances. Cyclists are also seeing cities changing toroads, dark conditions and lack of safety equipment
accommodate their needs. Bike lanes and streetscan lead to accidents.
which are bike friendly are beginning to be a part ofCycling is a great activity. It is healthy, environmentally
the city. As much as biking instead of driving is goodfriendly, cost efficient and a great way to travel. As
for the environment it is even better for your health aslong as cyclists follow the rules of the road and are
it is recommended to get 20-30 minutes of exerciseproperly outfit in safety equipment such as reflective
per day. One of the biggest benefits of cycling is thegear, both clothing and on the bike, and a helmet,
lower costs associated with it. Commuting to workcycling is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and
saves money as you are not stuck in traffic burningmake a difference in the world.