Bicycle News
Ride a Bicycle and Save $120 per month!
In these tough economical times, everyone is looking for a way to either save or earn more money. And here is a good one. When you ride a bicycle and cut your gasoline consumption by just one gallon a day (based on a $4.00 per gallon price), you'll save at least $120 a month in fuel cost. Leave your vehicle at home, ride a bike just enough each day and this savings will be both simple and easy! Remember, 24 percent of all trips are made within one mile of the home, 40 percent of all trips are made within two miles of the home, and 50 percent of the working population commutes five miles or less to work—distances that can often be easily covered on a bicycle. The more you ride, the more money you'll save. Depending on your per gallon fuel cost and the amount of riding you do, this savings can be either more or slightly less. Start this simple daily routine and you'll also get many more benefits, such as better physical health, including reduced risk of heart disease, the number one cause of death in the United States. Bicycle commuting can provide a practical method for meeting the recommended amount of daily exercise for people that work jobs that aren't physically demanding or labor-intensive. Studies have shown that integrating moderate cardiovascular exercise into daily routines is highly beneficial to health, protecting against coronary heart disease, some cancers and reducing incidence of obesity. At least one study has shown that transportational cycling confers additional benefit even among those who are otherwise fit. Commuting by bicycle is often a good way to improve a person's health during a period of time that is often spent sitting in traffic. In some countries health insurers actively support bicycle commuting. Measures that promote physical health, including aerobic exercise, have been shown to reduce the symptoms of depression. Bicycle commuters in general enjoy greater productivity, and (particularly for the deskbound) a nice balance for the day, particularly in combination with stopping and stretching. Start riding today and start saving money too!
Lance Armstrong announces retirement
February 16, 2011
(CNN)—Seven-time Tour de France champion Lance Armstrong announced his retirement from the world of professional cycling Wednesday, saying that he wants to devote more time to his family and the fight against cancer. Armstrong, 39, issued a statement saying his "focus now is raising (his) five children, promoting the mission of LIVESTRONG (Global Cancer Campaign), and growing entrepreneurial ventures with our great corporate partners in the fight against cancer." Armstrong first announced his retirement in 2005, but he then attempted a comeback. Armstrong's cycling career was marred by allegations relating to the use of performance-enhancing drugs—accusations he has consistently denied. He submitted to dozens of drug tests after ending his initial retirement in September 2009. He underwent surgery that year after breaking his collarbone in a race in Spain.
At age 25, Armstrong, already a promising cyclist on the pro circuit, was diagnosed in 1996 with testicular cancer, which spread to his abdomen, lungs and brain. After years of treatment, he returned to claim multiple wins in the Tour de France—cycling's premiere event. He became a high-profile fundraiser for cancer research, and serves as chairman of the LiveStrong Foundation, which has raised tens of millions of dollars for cancer research, education and patient support. "We're fortunate to have Lance back full-time as a hands-on chairman for LIVESTRONG where he can help us capitalize on the great opportunities for progress that lie ahead." Doug Ulman, president and CEO of the foundation, said in a written statement. Armstrong is not the only athlete to retire and then change his mind. The most notable example was Michael Jordan, who left the National Basketball Association in 1993 to play professional baseball. He later returned to the NBA to lead the Chicago Bulls to three more championships.
Doctors urge cycling, less red meat to beat global warming
by Tamar Kahn
CAPE TOWN—Riding bicycles and eating less meat will be good for the planet and good for your health, research published by The Lancet shows. "One widely held view is that implementation (of strategies to cut greenhouse emissions) would prove socially uncomfortable and economically painful. But … if properly chosen, action to combat climate change can, of itself, lead to improvements in health. The news is not all bad," it said.
A special series on climate change and health, released ahead of this month’s United Nations (UN) summit in Copenhagen, tries to quantify the health benefits from measures to cut greenhouse gas emissions in four sectors— electricity generation, household energy, transport and food. At the same time, doctors around the world—including SA— have launched a lobby group called the International Climate and Health Council that aims to get health professionals more involved in the debate. "Climate change has multiple implications, all of which can affect health," said one of the founding members, Zephne van der Spuy, president of the South African Colleges of Medicine. It has already lobbied the UN and will write to politicians likely to attend the summit, including Water and Environmental Affairs Minister Buyelwa Sonjica, urging them to take action to cut carbon emissions and promote low- carbon lifestyles. "Politicians may be scared to push for radical reductions in emissions because some of the necessary changes to the way we live won’t please voters," said Dr Fiona Godlee, editor of the British Medical Journal. "Doctors are under no such constraint. On the contrary, we have a responsibility to warn people how bad things are likely to get if we don’t act now. "The good news is that we have a positive message: what is good for the climate is good for health.”
The Lancet series gives doctors some of the ammunition they need to persuade politicians to take action. The study on transport, which accounts for almost a quarter of fossil fuel greenhouse gas emissions, considered various scenarios with cars being replaced to varying degrees with bicycles and walking in London and Delhi. More active travel in London could see the levels of heart disease and stroke fall 10 percent - 20 percent, breast cancer drop 12 percent - 13 percent and an 8 percent decline in dementia.
U.S. Bicycle sales higher than Car sales in 2009
During the first quarter of 2009, more bicycles were sold in the United States than cars and trucks. While the current recession is still negatively affecting bike sales, they didn't fall as fast, or as hard, as automobile sales. Around 2.6 million bicycle purchases were produced, compared to less than 2.5 million cars and trucks that left the paved new car lots of America. Since nationwide gasoline prices are now rising above $2.40 per gallon at the pump, it could end in another wave of United States residents shifting to riding bicycles for their everyday trips. The large savings from riding a bike over short distances rather than driving will help to boost the wavering consumer confidence and support a more rapid economic recovery.
Famous U.S. bicycles soon to be made in Asia
Tuesday April 28, 2009
The "Cannondale Bicycle Company," the second largest producer of bicycles made in the USA, and among the last of a dieing breed of American builders, is to be outsourced to Asia. Over 200 Cannondale bicycles, with trademark aluminum tubes, roll off an assembly line each day. The bikes, marked "Handmade in the USA," will now be produced in Taiwan. Two thirds of the 300 workers at a small plant which manufactures the bicycles will now lose their jobs, adding to local unemployment lines.
Why others ride bicycles
By Dan Sheridan / April 19, 2009
Ask a bicyclist why they ride, and you'll get a glimpse into their heart. Marsha Carr says that bicycling together is the best thing that she and her husband David have done for their relationship and their health. The Carrs, of Marion, are often seen on local bicycle club rides, and often serve as ride leaders for the bike club's Saturday morning rides. "We started riding March 2001, at age 54." said Marsha. "We tried walking, but it really bothered my feet and we did not enjoy it. We decided to try biking and we both loved it. We started very slow and just rode on trails, but the following year we joined the Heart of Ohio Tailwinds Bicycle Club and haven't stopped." The Carrs progressed to multi-day adventures, such as the Great Ohio Bicycle Adventure and the Greene Trails Cycling Classic. However, they were not always so fit. According to Marsha, "I couldn't ride five miles without thinking I was going to die. I guess we've come a long way."
"David and I ride for the exercise, socializing and it is something we both enjoying doing together. We also like the great company." Stephanie Langley of Morral bicycles for exercise, and to spend time outdoors with family and friends doing something that she loves. "I started cycling in high school where I rode distance rides to raise money for different organizations." said Langley. "I rode during college because having a car in Athens, Ohio is not an easy task. I quit riding for a number of years but took it up again seriously three years ago when I decided to ride my first Tour of the Scioto River Valley." Langley's advice to a new rider would be "Be patient. Keep at it. Find a group of people who share the same goals and enthusiasm."
"Ed Lux, Marion, also rides for exercise, adding "I like the feeling of going faster under my own power and with less effort than I could on my own. I also like being outside in the fresh air enjoying the natural world." "It's all about the journey. I like to stop at interesting places along the way." Some of his favorite stops are historical sites, natural areas, diners, and dairy bars. Lux continued "I've always ridden since I was a kid. Charlie Evers invited me to try the weekly club rides, and then I tried the Popcorn 100. That was about 25 years ago." Lux would advise a new rider "Try the bike trails, and also find someone to ride with, such as a bike club."
Ken Johnson, of Bellville, Ohio started bicycling when he retired from his job. Johnson explains "Everyone is aware of the energy crisis that we face. I like to think that I'm doing more than my share by using my bicycles to do everyday errands. Not only does it save fossil fuel, it is the reason I am so healthy at age of 68." "When I hook up my bike trailer and haul recyclables to the bin, take items to homebound neighbors, or pick up groceries, I don't eat more than I would if not cycling. Thus, it costs nothing for fuel."
Alice Piacentini, who lives near Prospect, resumed bicycling after enjoying the bicycles at the YMCA during a spinning class. She set a goal of riding the Popcorn 100 bicycle tour, and began riding outside to train for the tour. Piacentini convinced a few friends to join her, and said "We found that we really enjoyed the 25 to 30 mile rides, with an occasional 30 to 40 mile ride. We loved the time outside with no distractions from the phone, TV, or whatever. We found that we could talk and ride and enjoy the time together." Piacentini advises new riders "What I hear a lot of in spinning class with new riders is the 'seat discomfort' issue, but this passes in a few weeks as your bottom gets used to riding." "Start with short rides and build up. The toughest part for me is always the first couple of miles. Make sure that you have a bike that fits you properly, as this can make a huge difference in how comfortable you are on the bike."
Bicycle commuters eligible for checks from employers
Ingrid Stegemoeller
Amid the hundreds of pages in the federal bill bailing out financial institutions were a few dedicated to people who commute to work on two wheels. Bicycle commuters are now eligible for a $20-a-month tax-free reimbursement from their employers to pay for bike-related expenses, thanks to the Economic Stabilization Act of 2008. And while $20 a month might seem small, those in the bicycling industry say it's a good start. "It legitimizes bicycle commuting right up there with transit and driving your car to work," said Gary MacFadden, senior program director for the National Center for Bicycling and Walking. Jerry Markee, owner of Markee's Cycling Centers in Kennewick and Richland, agreed. "I think that anything they can do to promote cycling as a viable form of transportation (is positive)," he said. "A vast majority of Americans don't view a bicycle as a viable means of transportation and it is." Mike Hoard, 44, works at the Richland Markee's location and rides the three miles to work a majority of the time when the weather is decent. "I have a passion for cycling," the Richland man said. "I'm trying to keep my health up. When gas prices were up, you could save a little money here and there."
Hoard didn't know about the reimbursement, but Markee said he plans to implement it for his employees. In most cases it's likely going to be up to employees to ask their bosses about the reimbursement, MacFadden said. Employers will determine what constitutes "regular" bicycle commuting and they have a couple of options in setting up the voluntary program. The $20 could be a pre-tax benefit that shows up on a worker's paycheck, or an employer could pay the bike commuter $20 and take that expense off federal taxes, MacFadden said. Essentially, businesses won't be taxed on that $20, he said. "I think there is some disappointment from the people who were pushing this bill that it came down to $20 per month," MacFadden said. "In the future we'd like to see this adopted more around the country and a push for a higher benefit program." Benefits already are available for commuters who use mass transit or who pay for parking, at $115 and $210 per month, respectively. The yearly cost of the Bicycle Commuter Act is expected to be about $1 million, according to the House-Senate Joint Committee on Taxation.
But tax credits aren't the right way to go about making policy, said Pete Sepp, vice president for communications of the National Taxpayers Union. Rather, the emphasis should be on reducing tax rates, he said. "It's hard to envision such a thing suddenly inducing millions of people getting on bicycles and pedaling to work," Sepp said. "This is more of a reward for people who are already riding" and the latest attempt to try to change people's behavior. Markee said he's not sure the money will be enough of an incentive to make a big difference. "They've got to do something to give employers an incentive to have showers," he said. Getting cleaned up for work after the commute is a roadblock for many, Hoard said. "You've got to worry about 100 more things than you would if you were driving your car," he said. "It can be considered an inconvenience, but if you start making it part of your routine, it's fun and enjoyable." And an extra $20 offers a little boost on regular maintenance and gear, bicyclists said.
"I don't think it's enough money to change the culture but maybe it will create interest," Markee said. "It may be an incentive just to put it on the map." For more information about the reimbursement, go to www.bikeleague.org.
Australians buying more bicycles than cars
January 7, 2009
Australians continue to buy more bicycles than cars with the economic downturn, health issues and climate change driving sales, the Cycling Promotion Fund (CPF) says. Figures released on Tuesday put total vehicle sales for 2008 at 1,012,64 while bike sales were 38 per cent higher at 1,401,675. The CPF said it was the ninth consecutive year demand for bikes had outstripped vehicles. "The economic downturn and the affordability of cycling is one of the key reasons for the continued surge in bicycle sales," CPF policy adviser Elliot Fishman said.
"The sluggish economy, coupled with concern over climate change, health, congestion and petrol prices have strengthened interest in cycling as an option." Mr Fisherman said Australians who bought bikes were also using them more regularly with census figures showing more people riding to work. He urged the federal government to consider boosting bicycle infrastructure, including bike lanes, as it looked to stimulate the economy. "Bicycle infrastructure provides a logical and affordable solution and will pay increasing dividends over time by lowering transport costs and greenhouse gas emissions," he said. "Helping to create bicycle-friendly cities is one of the most effective measures the federal government can take to help Australians fight climate change, the obesity epidemic, congestion and make our cities more livable."
Big cities try to ease way for bicyclists
USA TODAY—Cities are accelerating their efforts to encourage commuting on two wheels, putting bike racks where cars once parked, adding bike lanes and considering European-style bike-share programs to get residents out of their cars. Boston Mayor Thomas Menino last month named a former national cycling champion to be the city's director of bike planning. The city is identifying the best roads for bicycling in a mapping project that cyclists eventually may be able to access online. It also plans to add 250 bike racks by next fall and this month will hold a summit of cycling experts to determine a long-term bike strategy. "There's never been so much attention from cities collectively for cycling as a mode of transportation," says Loren Mooney, executive editor of Bicycling magazine. "Cities are recognizing that it is a realistic and inexpensive solution to a lot of different problems—to the traffic issues, to pollution issues, to personal health issues because instead of sitting in cars for an hour you have people out burning calories."
Other cities taking steps: New York for the first time is creating a special lane, modeled on those used in European cities such as Copenhagen, Denmark, that will separate bicyclists from motorists. The Ninth Avenue bike lane in Manhattan is being built between a sidewalk and a lane for parked cars. "We're re-imagining the streets of New York," says Janette Sadik-Khan, the city's transportation commissioner. Mayor Michael Bloomberg wants to add 200 miles of bike lanes by 2010 to serve a growing population. "The city is going to add a million new residents over the next 25 years," Sadik-Khan says. Inspectors recently began focusing specifically on bike lanes, looking for potholes and other problems. "We're going to have to look at greener modes of transportation … and reduce our reliance on cars to get around town," she says.
Chicago is striving by 2015 to have 5 percent of all trips shorter than 5 miles to be taken by bicycle. Mayor Richard Daley also is considering launching a bike program he saw in Paris. That effort, begun in July, allows residents and visitors to check out a bike at one location, ride free during the first half-hour and park the bike at another location near their destination. San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom, whose city is considered one of the friendliest to cyclists by the League of American Bicyclists, says he wants at least 10 percent of all trips in the city within three years to be made by bicycle.
The San Francisco Board of Supervisors will vote next month on a contract with Clear Channel Outdoor Inc. to create a bike-share program like that in Paris in exchange for advertising rights on transit shelters. The city also has given away 2,500 bike lights and 400 children's bike helmets this year. "This whole movement has taken place in tandem with resurging interest in cities and developing downtowns," says Paul Steely White, executive director of Transportation Alternatives, an advocacy group that promotes walking, cycling and public transit in New York City.
Some analysts doubt that these initiatives will have much of an effect on traffic. "I don't think encouraging cycling is going to reduce congestion or significantly change the transportation makeup of our cities," says Randal O'Toole, a senior fellow at the Cato Institute. "There really is very little evidence that any of (these efforts) are reducing the amount of driving. They're just making it more annoying to drivers." Some city officials and cycling advocates acknowledge that obstacles remain for bicyclists. New York residents often express worries about safely navigating city traffic on two wheels and finding secure places to park their bikes, Sadik-Khan and Steely White say. "It's fine to encourage people to ride their bikes to work," Sadik-Khan says, "but what do they do when they get there?"
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