We've been car-free for a few weeks now, and I personally am enjoying myself. I forgot how much I love riding a bike, since I haven't had one since Theodore was born. Even going to the grocery store is a breeze as long as I take a backpack along to put my food in for the ride home. The weather is getting frigid, but nothing gloves and a hat can't solve (though I probably need a warmer coat, I don't really have a thick one). And saving money! I love saving money! We got a refund of $220 for canceling our car insurance and we are saving in gas/oil changes for now and then registration come the new year. And we got two nice road bikes for $200, a trailer for $77, and three helmets for about $60. I wanted to get a nice Chariot, but I couldn't find one used and I don't want to fork out ten times as much for a bike trailer. We'll start out with this and go from there. One day though... I really, REALLY want a Chariot (but y'all have probably figured that out by now).
So far, so good. I don't mind riding the bus home from work and we don't really go anywhere else that we can't walk to already, so bikes will make it even more convenient. I can't wait to tote Theodore around in the trailer... I think he is going to love it.
My conclusions thusfar: cars=overrated, dangerous, and expensive. It's liberating to not have to worry about maintenance, gas, or getting in a wreck. Going car-free has definitely simplified things.
I think it really depends on where you live. Provo/Orem really tends to be a lot more pedestrian friendly since starving students frequently don't have cars. Where I live is...not so pedestrian friendly. It makes me sad. I AM working on getting my bike into working condition though so can we ride it to the grocery store and stuff!
ReplyDeleteThat is one really fabulous thing about Provo/Orem. It's so bike/pedestrian friendly. I live in Houston, but outside the public transportation area. There are no bike lanes, and few sidewalks near commercial areas. Also, much thinner lanes than in Utah. Still trying to decide if I can brave the streets and traffic on bike.
ReplyDeleteYou are better than me. i would go crazy relying on public transportation or others to pick me up to get around. I love my car and the freedom it gives me to go where i want. Plus without a car we would never see our families. :)
ReplyDeleteYou've been car-free for what, three weeks? Update us in a year and I'll take you more seriously. :)
ReplyDeleteJanuary . . . 2 feet of snow on the ground . . . 14 degrees . . . stiff wind . . .
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