In the face of an impending recession, many Americans are looking to the gas station marquee with furrowed brow. Gas prices are likely to reach $4 a gallon soon, and it may be time to ask yourself why you are still behind the wheel.
Quoted in The Oregonian yesterday, Rep. Earl Blumenauer, D-Ore., stated that bike commuters annually save on average $1,825 in auto-related costs. The Oregonian continued to list other benefits of bicycling such as reducing your carbon emissions by 128 pounds, conserving 145 gallons of gasoline and sparing yourself 50 hours of gridlock.
With the rain abating, the weather warming and gas prices sky rocketing, what do you have to lose? Well, other than a few pounds. One more benefit of biking — it’s great exercise.
Helpful local bike links that can help you get out of the car and on to a bike
Resources:
Bike Program of the Seattle Department of Transportation
Clubs:
Group Rides:
And more great bike links from Spokespeople.
PS: Walking is also rad! Next time you are bored, lace up your shoes and go on an urban hike. My roommate and I spent the day walking from Downtown, through the International District, Capitol Hill and Wallingford. Stop to have coffee and snacks along the way, duck into unusual shops, chat with passersby, and get a great hike by traversing all those lovely Seattle hills.
Bottom line: cars are lame. Only take them if you must.
Filed under: Green livin'
