What are the main reasons for why you cycle? - Pedelec Forums

Jack.Eagle · #1 (**permalink**) 14th July 2008, 11:00

Please comment on this questions and any views you have about it.

Many thanks

Jack

HarryB · #2 (**permalink**) 14th July 2008, 11:05

I cycle to work because public transport is slower, very expensive, unreliable and very crowded at rush hour.

flecc · #3 (**permalink**) 14th July 2008, 12:02

Maintaining fitness and the unique enjoyment of cycling, far ahead of any other travel mode for the pleasure that it gives.

At the end of a cycling trip of any sort, there's a feeling of satisfaction that no other vehicle can give, one that still holds good for e-bikes.
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musicbooks · #4 (**permalink**) 14th July 2008, 13:32

Quote:

Originally Posted by HarryB

I cycle to work because public transport is slower, very expensive, unreliable and very crowded at rush hour.

I would second that.. though in addition I would say that I can't and won't drive ( never passed my test and too expensive anyway). I have a four year old and I was getting back from work about ten minutes before she went to bed.. (absent Father!). The electric bike reduces my commute time by on average 45 minutes during rush hour.. I can wiggle through residential areas). In addition, my commute involves negotiating some serious hills ( I live in Bath) and I didn't fancy doing it alone on a conventional bike as it would involve showering and changing when I arrive, so I decided to buy an electric bike that would climb the hills reliably and leave me fresh and not too sweaty!

hope that helps,
bw
musicbooks

Django · #5 (**permalink**) 14th July 2008, 17:00

Ability to travel where a car or motorcycle cannot, e.g. cycle lanes. I live on a large campus and travel about 7 miles per day on it, needing to get around quickly and efficiently. The e-bike is ideal for that job.

Secondly, environmental reasons.

Thirdly, convenience: easy to start/stop, no protective clothing needed.

Fourthly, health. Being out in the fresh air for extended periods is fun (I go on long rides two or three times each week) and good exercise.

Fifthly, cost. I rarely drive distances under 5 miles where previously I frequently did.

the_killjoy · #6 (**permalink**) 15th July 2008, 15:16

Finding I am starting to get out of breath quicker on an ordinary bike than I used to, that and the incentive of the cycle to work scheme.

I think that it would be interesting to look at the demograph of riders. I get the impression that most on the forum are returning cyclists. In spite of it being legal to ride them at 14 there seem to very few young riders ~I assume it is the cost.

flecc · #7 (**permalink**) 15th July 2008, 15:49

Quote:

Originally Posted by the_killjoy

I think that it would be interesting to look at the demograph of riders. I get the impression that most on the forum are returning cyclists. In spite of it being legal to ride them at 14 there seem to very few young riders ~I assume it is the cost.

We had a thread on this at one time, showing the great majority of members over 50 with many in the 70s. Since then many in their 30s to 50s have joined so I think it more balanced, but there's hardly any in their 20s and I know of none in their teens, anywhere, ever.
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Conal · #8 (**permalink**) 15th July 2008, 21:08

As I get older and less able to take part in sporting activities I feel like a tree, each year another my girth grows a little (or a lot!). At 54 I find that I can not play squash, badminton, or run any more, but I can still swim and cycle. I benefit in many practical ways from cycling, and love the experience, but when it comes down to it, I do it because its one of the few things I still can.

moon · #9 (**permalink**) 15th July 2008, 21:16

Because i'm at my most happy on 2 wheels exploring the streets of London and the country lanes of Kent, I get bored whilst walking and waiting for public transport, I'm an environmentalist so have never driven a car, I need to get fitter and lose weight, I like to breath fresh air when possible, and i like to get to places quickly with the minimum of fuss.

moon · #10 (**permalink**) 15th July 2008, 21:21

Quote:

Originally Posted by the_killjoy

Finding I am starting to get out of breath quicker on an ordinary bike than I used to, that and the incentive of the cycle to work scheme.

I think that it would be interesting to look at the demograph of riders. I get the impression that most on the forum are returning cyclists. In spite of it being legal to ride them at 14 there seem to very few young riders ~I assume it is the cost.

I'm in my late 30's, female and I started cycling about 10 years ago but hadn't ridden regularly for about 6 years due to work pressures, fitness and moving to the edge of london so unable to commute comfortably.

Buying my Wisper was the best thing I've done in years!