Most are good drivers

Though there may seem to be many cyclist-hater drivers when we read comments on news about cyclists on roads in the cyberspace, the fact that many are still alive riding on the roads suggest otherwise. Recently I am capturing rear video footage during my rides and I do notice many good, nice, and patient drivers around. 

Thus, I think those who hate cyclists on roads are only the minority among all drivers. And based on the common complaints, I further speculate that these are those who find overtaking a challenge, < 3 s delay (which is negligible once meet a red light) by cyclists unbearable, find driving expensive or not affordable but feel that by asking cyclists pay will ease their burden somehow, or are just plain cyclophobia.

Why do I cycle to work?

Why do I cycle to work? 

To save money and time.

How did I started? 

I had been cycling from Clementi to NUS for a few weeks in 1995. One day, I needed to go to Tanjong Pagar. However, I couldn't find a place near the MRT station that I felt was good and safe (from theft) to park the bike. Also out of curiousity, I decided to ride straight down to Tanjong Pagar. That trip took me 45 minutes, which I find is not too bad since I wasn't familiar of the route, and on a 24" MTB bike.

I don't compare this 45 minutes bicycle riding with 17 minutes by MRT from Clementi to Tanjong Pagar. I would consider the whole trip from when I step out of my door until I step into the destination. For bicycle, there would typically be an additional 5 minutes overhead. For public transport, this overhead includes waiting time and more walking times, which could typically be as long as 10 to 25 minutes.

I was surprised that riding bicycle isn't that slow. In fact, the trip took about only 35 minutes on a 26" hybrid bike and after being more familiar with the route. This second bike for commuting stays with me until now, although, except the seat post and frame, all other parts have been replaced.

For me, cycling to work was not my intention but the natural outcome after I started bicycle commuting. 

Where have I been cycling to work?

How to learn to ride a bicycle? (follow up)

A followup to my earlier post.

The idea is actually quite common, but still, I believe many don't know.
Peter Gregory has nicely described the method.

And here is a proof.

I just like to add a couple of pointers from what I've observed.
1. Don't be so conscious that you are learning to ride. Just have fun gliding the walking machine.
2. Objective is NOT to move in a straight line (thus roads and paths are not suitable), or how to make turns. Just have more fun by moving faster and with legs above grounds for longer periods.
3. Soon, you will find the above not challenging as the speed achieved by pushing is slow, and legs get tired from holding them up for too long. i.e. you have learned the balancing part.

Family CookBook Project

Sounds like a good project to work on, especially for those who like to cook.