Bicycling as opposed to driving

**Jaded** · 10-22-2007, 06:27 PM

I know there is at least one of you who doesn't own a car (I remember reading it), and since I'm going to be trying hard not to use mine once I get in that position with the job and all, I'd like to hear how it works for you.

This is my situation: I'll be working about 2 miles from my house. There are sidewalks all the way, and crosswalks with lights, so pretty safe. There is a bike rack at the store where I want to work, due to so many kids in the area.

Everything I really need is within biking distance...3 miles or less...from my house. Home Depot, Wal-Mart, groceries, produce, library, voting, everything. I would still have my car, so if there was inclement weather I could drive. I don't relish the idea of bicycling to work in 90 degree heat in the summer, or riding home at 11:30 at night on it, so that would be times I would use the car. Otherwise, I'd walk or bike.

For those who have no car at all, how do you manage going places you have to get in bad weather? I used to have to ride buses, and I remember getting very sick standing in the rain on cold days waiting for the bus. Horrible!

**VanVivCam** · 10-22-2007, 07:54 PM

I would LOVE to be able to ride a bicycle everywhere! It think it would be fun and excellent exercise.

**karone** · 10-22-2007, 11:50 PM

we have a $store, library and a few other places that i walk to alot. i dont work but the money that i get from my mom i try to save so i can buy whatever.

**acidcookie** · 10-22-2007, 11:59 PM

I have never owned a car, but I ride the bus. It isn't troublesome for me at all, except for evening events or errands out of town of course.

I really want to get a bike again, but it's too icy and snowy here in winter to get around that way.

Sounds like a great idea, good luck!

**altbaby** · 10-23-2007, 09:25 AM

2 to 3 miles is nothing really on a bike. And hot weather is fine if you are on a bike. It can be in the 100s and when riding the bike it is nice cause of the wind you make when riding.

Now, cold can be a bother but if you're only going a couple of miles that shouldn't be a big deal. Just get some waterproof clothes and you're good.

The worst is really rain. I don't ride in the rain for any reason too slippery as well as the cars can't see you.

**DAAC3DEC** · 10-23-2007, 09:53 AM

I wish I could do this, just not feesable where we live, no sidewalks, rural with a combo of major roads with lots of traffic.............I just hate to drive. Good luck to you and it is a great idea!!!!!!

Hopefully you don't get a lot of snow in the winter, that would be the only hang up I would think......

**Edna_E** · 10-24-2007, 08:47 PM

Ok, I 'm speaking for a friend rather than myslef here, but he goes almost anywhere on his bike. He even goes camping via bike (I'm talking a couple of hundred miles in the desert Southwest - pretty heavy duty). I think the biggest issue is learning how to plan the right amount of time. Other than that, rig your bike with whatever equipment you want to use to carry things, and get the appropriate "weather clothes" - in your case I would think a waterproof jacket and maybe some wind pants would work most of the year.

**geo8rge** · 10-25-2007, 01:06 AM

You might post to a bicycle specific forum like bikeforums.net or cyclingforums.com.

As to bad weather / Night riding. I suggest you start with the best conditions, and work you way to more challenging situations. Give yourself loads of time so you are never rushed into crossing traffic.

If you see anyone in the area that looks like they commute regularly talk to them. Talk to the personal at the local bike shop. Find out if there is a cycling club.

A proper rain suit and lighting are probably all you need for most situations.

Effective cycling by doug forester.

**eofelis** · 10-25-2007, 01:25 PM

I was also going to suggest bikeforums.net. They have subforums for Commuting and Living Car Free.

Also, check out http://forums.teamestrogen.com/
There are a lot of great ladies on there who ride a lot! They are very helpful to new ladies who want to learn more about riding.

Please be aware that it is illegal (and dangerous) to ride a bike on a sidewalk in many states. You might check out your states laws on that. There are times when it *is* safer to hop on the sidewalk to ride a ways (I do occasion ally), but there are ways to ride safely with traffic.

If you PM me I can email you a Word document that my bf wrote up on urban cycling skills. He bike commuted 17 miles/day when he lived in San Diego. He learned to deal with cars. He sometimes gives talks on urban cycling skills.

Most days I walk to where I need to go, but I can also bike to a lot of places. I drive my car about once a week, mostly to go to trailheads to hike.

**Jaded** · 10-25-2007, 02:08 PM

Thanks for all the tips! There is a city ordinance against riding on the sidewalk, but it's mostly for gangs of kids, not the solitary rider, and it's not strictly enforced as long as they get no complaints. I'd go most of the way on the back roads anyway. I'm going to call them to get info.

I still don't think riding in the rain or intense heat is for me. I have health issues with heat, and rain...well, let's just say NOT my favorite condition for outdoor activity. I'm sort of a "stay inside and cocoon" rain person.

I'll check out the sites. Thanks again for all the info!

**shoiji** · 10-25-2007, 02:13 PM

Don't have a car. I do have two bus routes in walking distance. Grocery shopping is fine since I take advantage of a free service that takes me there.

Also have a cart that I bought for around $20-30. One that folds up. Anyway, take it with me when I know I need to get something that is to big to carry. Also, use it to do laundry. My apartment complex has a laundry room. It is so much better than lugging around baskets.

Just be careful when riding around. I have been cut of by people driving around. Apparently they are in a real hurry.

I will walk around when it is cold out (and the news is telling you not to go outside) just to get the exercise. I wear a skiing bib and long down coat. After a while I am sweating.

Good luck.

**Jaded** · 10-25-2007, 04:45 PM

My only concern is riding down the major highway to get to work. All else is a breeze. I'll get accessories later. Luckily, it never gets too cold down here, 50's during the day is about the limit, still, that's cold to me. Like I said, I have physical problems that are affected by cold and heat, so I won't be doing much riding during extreme weather.

It's more of a supplemental thing to me, unless it becomes a necessity, then I guess I'll find a way to make it work through all kinds of weather.

**shoiji** · 10-25-2007, 10:20 PM

No offense but I don't think I would ride a bike on a major highway.

Like I said before I have been cut off by cars. Almost hit by one when crossing the street.

How about seeing if you can car pool.

**Jaded** · 10-25-2007, 11:05 PM

Originally Posted by shoiji

No offense but I don't think I would ride a bike on a major highway.

Like I said before I have been cut off by cars. Almost hit by one when crossing the street.

How about seeing if you can car pool.

There are sidewalks all the way down the highway. I'll be fine. You're not even allowed to ride bikes on that highway.