Why do I bike?

Biking became a part of my life when I began commuting to work last summer.  A bike was ‘strongly encouraged’ at the non-profit I was working at, and since there was no mention of a T or Bus pass for this stipend internship, I was an easy convert.

Of course I had been admiring the slim, graceful cyclists who weaved through Boston traffic (for better or worse) while cars and buses stood still and I trailed behind while walking.  On a college student’s budget and an education in Environmental Studies, I knew it was only a matter of time before I picked up the bike my cousin had insisted on shipping me cross country, and went out on the Southwest Corridor.

Riding my combination mountain bike frame with sturdy wheels, a wide handlebar and no gears, the summer was hard; hot and sweaty I was passed by fixie riders as I went towards the suburbs opposite of the other commuters.  I’d arrive at work, frantically try and cool down in the bathroom before wiping my forehead and going to sit under the AC in my office.  But times improved and I gradually grew more secure, doing my own weaving between sticks and acorns, learning how to dress for the weather, and even buying rain pants and fenders for those downpours.

One day, on the return trip home to campus, I needed to go directly to a meeting.  It was drizzling in Boston (of course), so I had on my rainpants, rain jacket, and a baseball hat under my helmet so I could see.  I turned up quite a sight, but when questioned by my peers, I proudly answered, “yup, I rode to work today.”  They all pronounced me crazy, but inside I could care less.  Each day the ride to work had become more and more important.  I was becoming addicted, the freedom, the solitude and the breeze kept me coming back, and even when I didn’t need to go anywhere I would just ride to get my legs moving, my hair blowing and a smile back on my face.

Today I still ride, to the store, to the river, to my new internship with another non-profit, but I'm ready for a new bike.  This workhorse bicycle served me well, but I'm ready for an attractive frame with girly details, thin wheels and more options than are offered by my single speed.