[Note: I usually devote my blog posts to spirituality in the Christian tradition, and there is deep spirituality within cycling; but today I’m focusing on a few simple aspects of biking in my area. The content will apply, to some degree, to many cities in North America that are slowly building out infrastructure for cycling].
Like most American cities, Grand Rapids has developed since at least the mid-20th century with cars at the center of the transportation grid. Over the past several decades, however, there have been meaningful efforts at integrating cyclists into the flow of city transit.
For an inside look at how the Grand Rapids community is embracing bike culture, check out Greater Grand Rapids Cycling Coalition. For an inside look at my personal experience over my decade of cycling experience in this city, read on!
There are a host of ways to enjoy a safer, healthier, cheaper lifestyle in West Michigan, and for residents of Grand Rapids, bike commuting is somewhere near the very top of the list. Our city is, in many ways, rather bike-able. This of course depends on where one lives. These maps are profoundly helpful in getting an overview.
On to the juicy part : the 5 tips!
1. Enjoy the Journey [and Smile!]
Biking is pure joy. Is it the rush of air, the smell of fresh-fallen leaves on a Fall ride, or the energy of the city that gives the most pleasure? The answer depends on who’s riding! I love the social dimension of cycling, the fun of exchanging a smile or conversation with fellow cyclists and pedestrians – and drivers too. It’s a little more difficult with drivers because of the separation that doors and windows cause, but most of the time my interactions with drivers are positive.
At intersections, especially 4-way stops, there is a routine opportunity to kindly wave a driver on, smile gently, and inject common humanity into the daily commute. According to research, bike commuting is extremely good for our mental, vocational, and financial health too. Just saying.
If American culture has the chance of evolving to genuinely embrace [or even accept] cycling as mainstream, the best advertisement is you and me. Our job is to have fun [getting in shape is the bonus!]. When drivers see us in the open air and sense how much joy is to be found on two wheels, who knows – some might want to join in on the fun.
Continue reading “Getting Around Grand Rapids: 5 tips for Safe Bike Commuting in a Midwest City”
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