1. It is too risky. Yes, theres authentic gamble associated with bicycling. Bikers do crash and get knocked by vehicles. But how treacherous is pedalling in comparison with other modes of transit and with our perception of the hazard? A surprisingly less than you might reckon.



Think on the reckoning of a firm that performs safety and failure testing, previously known as the Failure Group and now called Exponent. The firm reviewed a range of activities and calculated that the number of fatal accidents per 1million hrs of exposure was 0.26 for pedalling, 0.47 for driving, 1.53 for living (all causes of death), and 8.80 for motorcycling. In other words, they found that the risks of pedalling were about 50% that related to driving and a sixth of that connected with purely with living.

Disappointingly, the precise ways Exponent used are secret, and the complete report isn't available to the general public, but believe us this isn't a fly-by-night cyclists' advocacy organization that is making up the numbers. As the company explains on its site, it has been trusted to comment upon high-profile misfortunes like the bombing of the federal building in Oklahoma City.

So, for the reason of discussion, let us claim that the Failure Associates analysis is an underestimation and gauge another inclusive study that measures the risks using a slightly different measure?the count of deaths per billions of kilometres travelled instead of per hour of activity. Rutgers University scientists who completed this work concluded that, per kilometre travelled, cycling deaths are eleven times as great as car occupant fatalities. Seems quite poor for biking until you review what the same review discovered about walking. Pedestrian deaths per kilometre travelled were 36 times as great as driving kills, implying that walking is more than 3 times as dangerous as cycling.

However, there is always more that riders can do to take responsibility for our safety. A disturbing 24 percent of fatal bike accidents involve an intoxicated rider. Research shows that riders get into many smaller accidents that could be prevented. Numerous articles have shown that the failure to use lights in the dark or a helmet significantly increases a riders risk. Finally, newer riders have to be really careful about cars opening doors and taking turns, and about riding on the pavements.

In the end: It isnt that cycling is without danger, but a little perspective is in required, more so when you begin to factor in the many health advantages that cycling generates.

2. It's a long way. The ride may well take too long or take too much energy if you live further than, say, 10 miles from the day job. But consider ways to increase your potential distance. Many commuters, for example, use folding bicycles so they can go some way on a commuter train.

3. Bikes are pricey. Not true. You should be able to get a new or used bike ideal for simple commuting for below $500. Find a good, local bicycle store with a experienced staff, explain the route and length of commute youre considering, and they'll help you choose the correct frame and number of gears you will require.

If youre just beginning, you may want to hunt for a functional, commuter bike with fenders to save your pants, a stand, and a comfy seat. And, if youre really looking for a relaxed ride, take a look at the new type of coasting bicycles that are designed to remind people with worry free memories of cycling as a kid. They have pedal brakes called coaster brakes instead of hand brakes and an automatic shifter, and although they are not designed for speed, theyre a terrific way to get reacquainted with the seat, says Doyne.

4. Its not possible to carry the stuff I need. If this is what you think, youre toting far more than the usual cyclist to work or you do not own the proper rucksack or features on your bike. A good basket or touring panniers will mean you can easily carry a computer, work clothes, food, paperwork, a slew of folders, and whatever other gadgets you usually take with you.

5. Theres nowhere to change. Jeff Peel of the League of American Bicyclists says that most cyclists do worry about this, but that there are many alternatives beyond simply showing up at the office stinky and sticky. First, check to ensure that your building doesnt have a full bathrooms somewhere. If it doesn't, check nearby gyms or fitness clubs. They often offer shower-only memberships for riding or running types.

6. Cycling will turn me sterile. This is an accusation that has circulated since the mid 1990s, and theres a kernel of truth to it. There is studies that serious bike riders can experience short-lived and even long-lasting problems if they cycle many hours on a racing seat that isnt fitted well. But there are now lots of saddles with ergonomically designed cutaway grooves that remove the pressure off the key arteries and nerves. As long as your seat fits properly and you dont ride as much as a professional rider training for the Tour de France, cycling is more likely to reduce your odds of erectile dysfunction than increase them, since the exercise will assist keep cardiovascular disease a large creator of erectile dysfunction.