Biking is greener, healthier, and cheaper than driving, but in the end, it all comes down to convenience. No one wants to leave the house an hour earlier to arrive at her final destination a sweaty, miserable mess even if it means saving on gas. But plan it right, and the two-wheeled lifestyle can be a lot of fun. Here are five fun and easy ways to incorporate biking into your routine.
Garage-Sale Shopping Spree
Feel like a kid again with this adventurous way to snag bargains.
Strategy: Make your own garage sale scavenger hunt. Start by following the nearest “Garage Sale” sign and see where it leads you. Strap on an empty backpack for small treasures you collect.
Why it works: All too often, garage sales disappoint. Biking is a perfect way to get a quick first impression. You won’t waste time parking and exiting the car to find that the driveway is a heap of junk from 1987 – and if you do stumble upon some serious loot, just ask the seller to hold it until you return with the car.
Bike Commuting
Lots of people say they want to bike to work; few actually follow through with it. Be the exception and put your co-workers to shame.
Strategy: The day prior to your ride, bring to work a bag with your clothes, shoes, toiletries and anything else you might need the following day. If possible, arrange to work an alternative, off-hours schedule to avoid rush-hour traffic.
Why it works: You won’t have to worry about dodging speeding cars or carrying a heavy load on your back.
Errands By Bike
Instead of succumbing to the boredom of running errands, turn monotonous chores into a workout.
Strategy: Group together quick, local errands that don’t require lots of cargo (the bank, post office, library, etc.), and map out a route to accomplish them all in one trip.
Why it works: You’ll save gas and time. Plus, you can cross off an additional task – “work out” – from your list.
Potluck Picnic
Think Martha Stewart meets Lance Armstrong. The next time you’re invited to a picnic, impress everyone by transporting your contribution by bike.
Strategy: Make a durable pasta dish (one that can be tossed around without turning to mush) and double-bag it in large freezer bags. Put the bags in your backpack, with a serving spoon, collapsible bowl and icepack, if necessary.
Why it works: You’ll enjoy the meal more, knowing that you worked hard to earn it.
Dinner Date for Two (Wheels)
Relive your freshman year of high school, when the only way to "pick up" your date was on your Huffy.
Strategy: Rent a tandem from a local bike store and take a scenic ride on a path. Head into town and enjoy dinner at a sidewalk café.
Why it works: It’s way more romantic than hopping in a car and driving to Olive Garden. And what better way to get to know one another?
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