images from Adbusters
I wrote this article to promote cycling to Uni for a student newspaper. It is free of copyright. If you wish to reprint it please credit me as the author and send me a copy though. You may also make some small changes to the article to include locally relevant information. You could also adapt it to promote cycling to work or school. There are also some images from Adbusters below that could be used with the article.
So you’ve just got into University, had a great time in O-week and found a place to live. Now the big question is how are you going to get to University everyday? You need a form of transport that is inexpensive, environmentally friendly, keeps you fit and healthy and that you can park right outside your lecture theatre. Look no further than the humble bicycle. Short trips around town take about the same amount of time on a bike as they do in a car and bikes don’t produce any harmful pollution on the way. I don’t think there is a better or more convenient way of travelling to University. Here are some tips for getting on two wheels, having fun and staying safe.
If you’ve got the spare cash you might like to invest in a new bike. Avoid buying bikes from department stores or supermarkets, as they are likely to fall apart in a few months. Look around the bike shops, ask questions and buy something that suits you. Most bike shops usually sell new bikes with a free service and are happy to give any advice that you might need. Mountain bikes are probably the most comfortable and easy to ride. Their wide range of gears makes them easy to ride. Expect to spend at least $250 on a new bike and don’t forget you’ll need a little bit extra for a helmet and lock. Other accessories you might need include slick tyres, mudguards and a carry rack.
Second-hand bikes are also worth looking for as you can often find a good bike for a fraction of the cost of a new one. Try checking the Trading Post, classifieds or notice boards around Uni. Finally, if you’re flat broke ask around amongst your friends and neighbours. There are hundreds of bikes lying around in people’s back sheds unused and unloved. With a bit of persuasion they might be happy to see them go to a good home.
Unfortunately cars still rule our roads. However don’t let this put you off getting out there on your bike. You have a right to be there despite the fact that some car drivers cocooned in their metal boxes might like to think otherwise. Ride assertively but obey the road rules, for your own safety and to avoid cyclists attracting a bad reputation. Things to watch out for – cars turning left without indicating, car doors opening suddenly, and abuse from car drivers (just smile and wave back).
The law requires all cyclists to wear a helmet. Obey it and protect your most precious asset. If you plan to ride at night lights are essential. I recommend a red flashing light on the rear and a halogen light on the front.
Bike theft is a problem, but by taking appropriate measures you can minimise the risk. Bike thieves love nothing more than a shiny new expensive bike so an old mud-covered clunker is less likely to be a target. Also avoid leaving accessories like lights and computers on your bike as they can be easily removed. Buy a decent U-lock or heavy cable lock. Lock your bike up to something secure and in a place where it is likely to be visible.
Feel embarrassed about donning a full-length lycra bodysuit? Well riding a bicycle in no way requires you to wear anything lycra or to shave your legs! That said here are a few fashion tips. Light and bright colored clothing helps make sure that you can be seen. This is particularly important if you ride at night. Loose comfortable clothing is good. Remember that riding a bike can make you feel hot and sweaty at times, so while a full length woollen overcoat may be essential for surviving cold winters, it mightn’t be the best thing to wear while riding your bike. Mini-skirts are definitely a bad idea unless you are an exhibitionist.
Try to choose roads that are not too busy. Another thing to try and avoid is big hills. Experiment with different routes until you find one that you are comfortable with. If you are lucky enough to have a bicycle path or lane along the way it will make cycling even easier.
The most important thing about cycling to University is to have fun. Cycling offers tremendous freedom, enjoy it.
by David Reid
images from Adbusters