FIRST: Pedal power
HANDS down two wheels are better than four, writes Rebecca Ricks.
Not only is it good for the heart and better for the purse it is clearly a much quicker mode of transport for rush hour chaos.
Needless to say before we had even started I was quietly very confident I would be first to arrive in Plymstock.
Armed with some already aching legs after a morning work out, my bike AKA my new best friend and some less-than fetching Lycra I was off.
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A quick dash up Royal Parade, weaving between dozens of backed up cars I was swiftly around Charles Cross roundabout and headed for the Exeter Street mayhem.
Darting into the bus lane – a dream for cyclists – I followed five or six others who clearly had the same two-wheeled idea.
After an easy coast down to the lights it was right and ready for Laira Bridge.
As I rode up towards the bridge I faced my first close-ish call with a scary looking cement mixer.
Not one for a fight I quickly backed down and skirted around dozens of traffic cones quietly choking on the horrendous fumes.
At this point cars, vans and lorries were desperate to get past the last traffic light hurdle before a free run into Plymstock.
Skirting around the roundabout I was at Plymstock in no more than 10 minutes and 14 seconds – and I am by no means a competitive cyclist.
Factoring in time for changing and a shower it could work out longer than a less energetic trip in the car. But if this was my commuting route – I would bike it everyday.
Comments
by mjohn
Friday, September 14 2012, 2:45PM
“I believe that bicycles are useful in many ways, but i would not wish to travel along with Plymouth Commuter Traffic. Plymouth Drivers are dangerous at the best of times, but placing yourself in a bus lane is even more dangerous, being abused by Bus and Taxi drivers.
What is the alternative? Keep to cycle lanes but do not ride on public footpaths putting pedestrians at risk. You can see the daily ritual of Battery powered cycles running along the pedestrian pavements to Central Park. Yes, mostly used by elderly women with poor eyesight.
If there aren't any cycle lanes near you demand them from the council. It is commiited to providing them. They can even split footpaths to give cycle lanes.”
by blogtodi
Friday, September 14 2012, 1:37PM
“And a shorter life if she continues on a bike. She may die fitter but her risk of death has risen 10 fold.”
by Nevman
Friday, September 14 2012, 11:54AM
“Another important piece about Rebecca Ricks from the Herald's resident defence expert! Herald readers are still trying to absorb her informed insights into herself aboard a sub!
'I' count: 11 (plus 4 'my's and a namecheck).”