Cycling is enjoying a boost in popularity. Maybe it's the desire to reduce our carbon footprint or an itch to get outdoors after lengthy social distancing. Others may want to get in shape or cut back on fuel costs. No matter what the reason, biking is an excellent choice for commuting to work or school. Keep reading to learn about the advantages of commuter biking. And before you take the plunge, you'll also want to check out some bike commuting tips to make the daily ride safer and more enjoyable.

Benefits of Riding your Bike to Work

There are so many reasons to bike to work. No matter who you are or where you travel, commuter biking offers some key benefits for the environment. Thrive Global estimates that cyclists release about 0.7 grams of carbon dioxide per mile, while vehicles average about 1.2 pounds of CO2 per mile. Meanwhile, you also gain some huge wins for your body, wallet and mental health:

  • Bikes come with lower ownership costs than cars – $300 per year versus $8,600 annually for a mid-sized sedan.
  • Cycling offers a cardiovascular workout during your commute.
  • Biking increases your wellbeing and decreases your healthcare costs.
  • Cyclists report lower stress, anxiety and depression levels.
  • You avoid the hassles of parking.

Many metro areas offer bike and ride programs with their public transit systems. Even if you work or attend school far from home, you can still commute part of the way on your bike. And on days with fluctuating weather, you have the flexibility of taking your bike with you but riding transport if you encounter rain, snow or freezing temperatures. And it doesn't matter what kind of bike you choose. A traditional two-wheeler, an adult tricycle or a men's or women's electric bike all allow you to enjoy these advantages.

Why an Ebike Is Great for Commuters

Electric bicycles offer commuting riders some flexibility. Ebikes come with motors that provide both pedal assistance and full throttle mode – and with full throttle, you don't need to pedal at all. You can even switch between modes as you desire during your commute, which comes in handy if you need extra juice for hills or longer distances. Your electric bike also comes with a display that shows your speed plus the amount of power left in your battery. For more tips, check out this guide on how to ride an electric bike.

If you're just getting started with biking to work or school, you can benefit from some useful advice. First, you'll want to practice riding in a driveway, park or empty parking lot. It's also wise to organize your gear so your tube, air pump and everything else is all in one place. A sturdy saddlebag or backpack can hold all these essentials plus your snacks and hydration. Wear breathable, bright-colored clothing that wicks away sweat and helps you be seen by motorists. Finally, choose less traveled routes during your first few weeks so you don't feel intimidated by heavy traffic. These tips can help make the transition easier no matter what bike you select for your commute.

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