The Pioneer, Vol. 51 Issue 8

Features
EXPLORE
BENEFITS
OF BICYCLE
COMMUTE
Marina Chetverikov / Staff Photo
By CRAIG T. HIBLAR
Contributing Writer
In a state as densely populated as
Washington, automotive transportation
can be a frustrating experience. Traffic
congestion is a frequent contributor for
students to often arrive late for work or
school. This can lead to a lot of unwanted
stress.
An effective alternative is to use a
bicycle as a means of transportation. There
are many benefits to riding a bicycle that
can help bring some serenity to traveling
in Washington.
When taking a bicycle out on the road,
remember to wear a helmet; it is the law in
Washington. Riding a bicycle can be just as
dangerous as riding a motorcycle. A rider
can sustain a serious head injury in a fall
off of the bicycle.
An additional safety measure would
be to install blinking lights on the front
and rear of the bicycle. This will allow
oncoming traffic to see a bicyclist riding at
night.
Riding a bicycle is also a solution to
being stuck in traffic. According to the
website pennyhoarder.com, riding a bike
can save a minimum of $18 per month.
Around here, the savings are even better
because the calculations are based on a
gallon of gas in Florida at $2.22.
Use public transportation to help reach
the destination by bicycle. Every Pierce
Transit bus comes equipped with a bicycle
rack. Using the transit system makes a
longer commute possible.
Bicycle riding gives a sense of freedom
that is hard to get when driving a car.
On a bicycle, there is a euphoric feeling
while riding through the sun and wind.
There is something to being outside and
experiencing life instead of being confined
behind the wheel of a car. Being stuck in
a traffic jam can create a claustrophobic
atmosphere and a desire to escape the
confines of the vehicle.
Exercise is also a benefit to cycling.
Many students spend hours sitting in front
of a computer screen. Bicycling can also
burn up calories and keep leg muscles
limber. Riding a bike will ease the pain
and stiffness that comes from sitting at the
computer too long.
May is National Bicycle Month. After
the long weeks of rain, it is the perfect
opportunity to do something different.
Use two wheels instead of four. Reap the
benefits to health and pocketbook.
16 / piercepioneernews.com
May 7, 2018 / Vol. 51, Issue 8