Iowans are encouraged to leave their cars in the driveway today and use pedal power instead. This is National Bike to Work Week and Angela Dalton, an organizer of the events in Iowa, says with bounding gasoline prices, taking your bicycle even once a week can save you a bundle in the long run.
Dalton says “We’re out there to get more cyclists onto the roads, using your bike for alternative transportation. Our theory is, the more cyclists that are out there, sharing the roads with drivers, the safer we are.” She says some folks will ignore the benefits of biking to work by claiming the weather’s too foul, they don’t have time or they don’t want to be all sweaty when they get to work.
Dalton says “There’s lots of excuses out there but there’s plenty of reasons to go ride because it feels so good in the morning. You’re awake when you get to work, your blood is pumping. Five miles is the best distance to ride. You’re not too sweaty and you can really save a lot of gas and mileage and wear and tear on your car.”
Dalton encourages Iowans to give it a try, just for one day — they may like it. Dalton says she rides every day and comes prepared with bags on her bike and a rain jacket. “I don’t mind riding in the rain and you’re getting great exercise. It’s a wonderful way to get your exercise for the day.”
She encourages Iowans who try biking to work to register on “www.bikeiowa.com” to learn more about the benefits, to have a shot at winning some prizes, and to make their voices heard to local and state leaders who are considering investing in bike trails and bike lanes.