TWO WHEELS ARE BETTER THAN FOUR, AT TIMES!
Bicycling in Denver provides a range of benefits, including improved health, sustainability, cost savings, convenience, community engagement, and a better quality of life for individuals and the city as a whole. LawnStarter posted a blog in celebration of World Bicycle Day on June 3rd listing the top cities for riding your bicycle, and Denver came in 6th place!
The blog “compared the 200 biggest U.S. cities based on 27 key indicators of a cyclist-friendly lifestyle, such as access to bike trails and bike rentals, the share of bike commuters, the presence of cycling clubs, and the number of bike races and tours.”
Here are some of the key benefits of bicycling throughout Denver:
- Health and Fitness: Bicycling is an excellent form of exercise that helps improve cardiovascular health, build strength and endurance, and maintain a healthy weight. Regular cycling can lower the risk of obesity, heart disease, and other chronic conditions.
- Environmental Sustainability: Choosing to bike instead of driving reduces carbon emissions and helps combat air pollution. Bicycles do not produce greenhouse gases, making them an eco-friendly mode of transportation and contributing to a cleaner environment.
- Cost Savings: Bicycling can save you money on fuel, parking fees, and vehicle maintenance costs. Compared to driving a car, biking is an affordable option that can significantly reduce transportation expenses.
- Reduced Traffic Congestion: With an increasing population and limited road capacity, Denver often faces traffic congestion. Bicycling helps alleviate this issue by reducing the number of cars on the road, leading to smoother traffic flow and shorter commuting times for everyone.
- Accessibility and Mobility: Bicycles provide a flexible transportation option, particularly for short-distance trips. They can easily navigate through congested areas, access narrow streets, and provide a convenient means of commuting in urban areas.
- Improved Mental Well-being: Cycling can have positive effects on mental health. It offers an opportunity to spend time outdoors, connect with nature, and experience the surrounding environment. Cycling also promotes stress reduction, boosts mood, and increases overall well-being.
- Social Interaction: Denver has a vibrant cycling community with various events, clubs, and group rides. Bicycling can be a social activity, allowing you to connect with like-minded individuals, participate in group rides, and explore the city together.
- Tourism and Recreation: Denver’s scenic beauty, parks, and trail systems make it an ideal city for recreational cycling. The city boasts an extensive network of bike lanes, paths, and trails, including the popular Cherry Creek Trail and South Platte River Trail. Bicycling presents an excellent way to explore Denver’s attractions, parks, and neighborhoods, providing both residents and visitors with unique experiences.
- Improved Infrastructure: Increased cycling demand fosters the development of better cycling infrastructure. By promoting bicycling, Denver can invest in expanding bike lanes, creating safer roads for cyclists, and enhancing the overall transportation system for everyone.
- Healthier Communities: Encouraging cycling can contribute to building stronger communities. Bicycling fosters a sense of connection among individuals, promotes active lifestyles, and enhances neighborhood interactions. It can lead to safer streets, increased social cohesion, and a sense of community pride.
These are just a few of the benefits of bicycling throughout Denver. By embracing cycling as a mode of transportation and recreation, the city can promote healthier lifestyles, a cleaner environment, and more sustainable urban development.
To read the full article by Sav Maive, click here.
