CONFIDENT CITY CYCLING
Written by David Hansen | Photos courtesy BikeWalkKC
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ne of the simplest things you can do to improve your health is replace car trips with bike rides. Driving is a stressful, dangerous activity known to increase blood pressure and anxiety. Commuting by bike, however, provides an outlet for stress and an opportunity to build physical activity into your daily routine. If you have to commute, why not enjoy the ride? Switching to a bike commute can be daunting at first, but if you take appropriate steps, you will be coasting down the road with a smile on your face before too long. Below are a few tips for getting started and for riding confidently in an urban setting. Cyclists utilize Kansas City’s first parking-protected bike lanes along Amour Blvd. from Broadway Blvd. to The Paseo. The project was part of the city’s new complete streets ordinance, approved by the city council in 2017.
Start simple. Don’t make commitments you won’t keep. If you’re not ready to bike every day, pick one day of the week to sub out your car for your bike. As you gain experience and confidence, start expanding the number of days you ride. Map out your route online. The best bike route is not often the most direct. In order to avoid major hills or dangerous street design, you may have to go a little out of your way. Online tools such as Google Maps can help you identify safe routes with bicycling infrastructure. Practice riding your commute on a day off to anticipate problems and to hone your route. Time how long it takes you and note that increased traffic during weekday rush hours may require you to adjust.
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