As we get older and most of us learn to drive we forget the thrill that came with having a bicycle. The freedom of simply peddling around town just because you can and the rush of the wind through your hair- it’s one of life’s pick me ups that people seem to have forgotten about. We are obsessed with getting places fast nowadays and so we usually end up taking the car. But if you just slow down a little and start peddling you can enjoy the ride so much more.
I was recently in London for a few days and the first thing that I thought of doing was hiring a bike. Forget about Covent Garden, Oxford Street or Big Ben- it was all about the “Boris Bikes” for me. I spotted a dock of them and £2 later (it costs £2 for 24 hours, bargain) I was whizzing round London town, I spent most of my time taking in the sites around Hyde Park – it was magic.
I purchased a bicycle in Freshers week and it has been a fabulous investment. I can leave later in the morning and get to class quicker while looking pretty fly at the same time (if I don’t say so myself!) There is nothing better than getting out of class after a long day, peddling up the Spital and free wheeling down Orchard Street (just remember to break before flying onto King Street). Aberdeen is, regrettably, not the most “bike friendly” of cities so only use the road where it’s safe to do so. This may be a dampener on the YOLO attitude that comes with whizzing around on two wheels, but you really do only live once- don’t waste it.
Of course if you do not have a big budget to get yourself some wheels then get down to BeCycle on campus. For £40 they give you a bike for the year and all the free advice and assistance you could ever need. They deal with everything from a meagre flat tyre to the personalisation of your very own DIY bicycle. You may have spotted a few of these quirky characters parked on campus- the luminous pink and green usually give them away. A useful tip is to invest in bike chains, heavy duty one; I have heard too many stories of bikes being stolen on campus. BeCycle also organise several group activities, such as Thursday night bike rides where they all ride out together on a planned route. There is also the exciting, if somewhat dangerous, sport of “bike polo”- yes it really does exist. Take along your bike, bring some protective gear, and they provide the ski pole-come-polo stick.
Having a bike creates numerous social opportunities. From the fellow bikers you meet while tying your bike up outside the library to the charming BeCycle team and the occasional onlooker who is thinking of investing in a bicycle just from seeing you glide past them.
Something to bear in mind pre-cycle is clothing. I’m not saying ditch form for function but no one wants to see you flash your way down the high street in your low cut jeans. Weather is another factor you have to take into account, icy conditions are no bikers friend, it may seem quicker but one misjudged corner and it won’t just be your pride that gets hurt.
Of course with a bike, everyday becomes an adventure. Taking a trip to the beachfront is that bit easier and getting into town is faster and cheaper. You can also keep fit while you’re at it- I have a love hate relationship with the road up to Hillhead halls.
On a safety note, wear a helmet and avoid busy roundabouts – you can replace a bike, you can’t replace yourself.
The average price of a bicycle- £40 – £200
The average cost of a helmet- £10-20
The feeling that comes from peddling around on two wheels- PRICELESS.