how to overcome top 8 bike commuting excuses

For most beginners who commute to work by bike may have struggled with the same thoughts “why should I ride my bike to work instead of driving my car?” In fact, there are many of us that think those nasty thoughts every day and find it really hard to get on the bike in the morning.

Don’t worry. It really takes a lot of motivations to bike to work. Next, there are some tips to help you overcome your bike commuting concerns.

First of all, you need to remember why you are bike commuting and what are the benefits of it? I have put together 8 compelling points near your bedside to remind and inspire you why you are bike commuting.how to overcome bike commuting top 8 excuses

1.to get some exercise to keep fit

Bicycle commuting is a good choice for those who want to get some exercise around a busy working week. It allows you to include your workout in your daily schedule.

2.to lose weight

Being a cardiovascular exercise, cycling works well in burning calories. Unlike running, cycling is a low-impact way to lose weight.

3.to feel a sense of achievement

Apart from the enjoyable bicycle commute under your own power, the challenges you set for yourself along the way give you a sense of achievement and confidence. The more you bike to work, the more you feel in control of your body, your life, and more in tune with the world around you.

4.to save time when faced with traffic jams

One big headache for most commuters is the traffic jam in rush hours. Bike lanes allow you to ride past traffic and require less time when you account for car parking and traffic.

5.to save money

Biking to work can save you the bills on your automobile maintenance and gas. You will also save money on parking and tickets. Besides, you don’t have to spend extra money to have a membership to a gym for the workout.

6.to fight pollution and save the planet

Driving to work definitely will produce toxic substances that pollute the ground, air, and water. While biking to work is environment- friendly.

7.to help you relax

Bike commuting to work is less stressful because you don’t have to sit in traffic. Besides, it can help you arrive at work refreshed and full of energy and ride off all your stress after work, therefore it can result in more relaxation and enjoyment of your commute.bike commuting helps you relax

8.to inspire others

Usually, if your colleagues see you ride to work, they will find it possible and fun to do, then they are likely to join you whether through positive motivation and camaraderie or pre-pressure and friendly competition.

Next, what you need to do is to tackle the excuses you give that keep you from bike commuting to work. Here are the solutions I give to the most common excuses for those who miss the bike commute.

1. I’m out of shape

Start to ride at an easy pace and biking to work will get you in great shape when you become a regular bike commuter. You don’t have to wait to get in good shape to biking to work. Try to ride on a weekend to find the easiest way to work. In a few months, you will gradually improve your fitness level.

2.It’s too far

This may be true, but in most cases, you will find that bike commuting is possible if you analyze your situation. Try to avoid stop- and –go traffic and you will make excellent and enjoyable time on your bike. If the distance is too long to ride, you can consider combining riding and mass transit to shorten your commute.

3.I’ll get sweaty

Getting sweaty is inevitable, but don’t let this excuse put you off. In most cases, if you wear the right clothes, ride at a slow pace and don’t climb steep hills on your route, you may not sweat too much. Whatever, you should be creative and check out the facilities in your building to clean yourself.

4.I can’t shower at worksolutions to overcome bike commuting excuses

Most riders don’t have to shower at work because they ride at an easy pace to stay cool and dry. If you feel the need, a quick clean up in the restroom is a good choice. Besides, you can use the showers at a nearby health club. Remember to keep a brush and a few toiletries at your worksite to freshen up.

5.It’s too dangerous

Cycling can be dangerous, but remember, so is anything in our life. In fact, from illuminated bikes to great bike headlights, cycling in the dark is easier than ever before. Always obey the traffic rules, wear your helmet and bright clothing, stay to the right, you will be as safe as in a car. If you are still nervous, you can avoid busy roads by choosing the route with the least traffic or cycle lanes. Besides, the more you ride to work, the more skilled you become.

6.I have to dress up

Leaving your suits at the office is a good solution to solve this problem. Just keep a couple of clean and pressed shirts at the office with a couple of suits and dressing up will not be a problem anymore.

7.I can’t predict the weather

In fact, there is no such thing as bad weather for riding, only bad clothing. If you dress well, you will be fine. The proper equipment can ensure a year-round riding. Remember to take the fenders and rain gear that will keep you dry on rainy days. If the weather is too terrible, you’d better take transit or drive.

8.There is no bike parking

If there is no bike rack at your office, try to find a storage area in your building or your office, such as a basement, utility room, closet, garage and so on. Bikes take up little space, you can request that your employer offers you bike parking. Wherever you leave your bike, remember to lock your bike.

Final words

As you have seen, there are no excuses to not riding to work anymore. If you have difficulties in riding to work, just think about the benefits. If you still have excuses, try to tackle them with the methods I have mentioned above. Hopefully, you have been motivated to look past the excuses not to bike to work.

What are you waiting for? Just get on your bike and commute to work from now on.