I’ve never owned a car. I mostly cycle and run to get where I need to go. I call it a “self-propelled lifestyle.”
In my twenties I lived in Switzerland and Norway. In Europe, not as many people have cars as in North America. Here, it’s assumed that you have a car. We have this convenient lifestyle. I like the idea that you should work a bit to get somewhere, and try to live a more local life. I shop at stores I can walk or ride to.
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Sure, life would be easier if I had a car. Even for running—sometimes I have to catch a ride with a friend to get to the trailhead. Still, to me, owning a car is a luxury. Too many people think they need one because they’ve always had one. It takes me longer to get some places, but it’s better for the environment, and I save money, too.
I work from home and live where there is good public transit—sometimes I use the bus. But I’ve also worked in an office and lived where not having a car is less convenient, so I know the challenges. You just make adjustments to do what you do:
Plan Ahead
I’ve arrived at friends’ potlucks with my donation in my panniers. Things that transport well: salad, fruit, olives, cheeses—you can always assemble your dish at the party. Want to dress up? Pack your shoes and clothes, and change there.
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Bring Your Bike on the Bus
I’ve taken a bus to my destination, with my bike mounted to the front, then ridden home. Most buses carry only a few bikes, so during peak hours you might be faced with a full rack and forced to wait for the next bus—I always allow for extra time just in case. Also, be ready. I remove anything that could fall off: bags, lights, water bottles.
And when I exit the bus, I make sure to let the driver know that I’m removing my bike from the rack. You don’t want to step in front of a bus without giving a heads-up.
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Ask for Help
I’ve also been in situations where I’ve had to rely on friends. It’s okay to say, “Hey, I cycled somewhere, and it’s not feasible that I cycle back. Would you mind giving me a ride?” Bonus points for chipping in for gas and for meeting friends where it’s convenient for them rather than treating them like a taxi service.
The versatile Cannondale Bad Boy 1 makes riding around town even more fun:
1. An unassuming, unappealing, 25-year-old Kona Explosif mountain bike. I’m not afraid to lock it up anywhere.
2. Flat pedals—who wants to walk into the dentist’s office in bike shoes?
3. Fenders, rain jacket, waterproof pants—the clouds open up often in Vancouver. (Here’s how to buy a waterproof cycling jacket.)
4. Panniers, because you never know what you’ll buy.
