My brother in law Geoff is a cycling enthusiast — a self described Crank Addict. He is also a scientist with a disdain for senseless human consumption and laziness. So, when I was listening to a story on NPR’s Morning Edition about Cargo Bikes, I could not resist blogging about it for Geoff and others.
I live close to an amazing grocery store, Dorothy Lane Market. I frequently make the less than 1 mile drive there an hour or so before meal time to grab some bread, missing ingredients, fresh produce, and other last minute additions to dinner. Out of convenience, I opt for driving — even on nice sunny days. The idea of a cargo bike to head to the hardware store, grab some groceries, and ride back home is appealing to me. This concept is great. I think it could be very interesting for urban businesses that deliver goods in population dense areas. I suppose I could probably get the same benefits as a cargo bike from my mountain bike and a back-pack. Not only could something like this lower carbon emissions and fossil fuel consumption, by increasing exercise it could improve public health and lower health care expenditures. Even better, riding a bike is fun.
As I ponder 2010, and changes I want to make in my life I think about simple things like this idea. While it is not likely that I am going to spend money on a new “cargo bike,” I do think there is huge value in looking for opportunities to replace sedentary behaviors like driving with active ones like riding a bike to the grocery. Nope, I am not ready to commit to “health nut” status, but maybe, just maybe, I can use modest increases in exercise to work off some of that delicious beer, cheese, and bread I bring home from DLM. Besides that if a 26.2 mile run is going to be on my list of goals for 2010, I am going to need all the help I can get.
Bicycle Photo Courtesy of ! Ramblinworker
Dave,
You certainly know how to grab my attention. I recently started riding my ‘commuter’ bike to the gym and the store also and I must say that I find it quite liberating. I paid four bucks for a bike lock, got some lights for riding at night, and carry a backpack for groceries. It’s great for running errands and arguably faster than getting in/out of the car. The NPR article was good, but unfortunately, didn’t account for texting drivers and insane traffic. Portland has long been the most bicycle friendly community in America. I wouldn’t dare put myself or my kids on one of those things around my part of South Carolina. It’s too bad really. Be sure to check out this too: http://davesbikeblog.squarespace.com/