I just started riding my bicycle to work- from New York City’s Lower East Side to Madison Square Park- and I have to say that it is very empowering.  No longer restricted by the schedule of the subway, I am free to ride where and when I want.  Call me a romantic, but I also consider it quite unifying.  I even find myself wanting to wave to other bicyclists in the bike lane.  That will probably stop as I become a more seasoned urban bicyclist; though I do have to say I never once felt connected to any of the billions of other passengers while riding the subway.  So I stand that biking is not only good for the planet, but it’s also good for humanity, my wallet, and my legs. 

Bicycling the city streets of New York can, however, be a bit intimidating.  It helps that I learned from some of the world’s experts such as bike fashion in Copenhagen, where I commuted by bike while studying abroad.  The Danes are the hippest bikers on the globe.  Don’t believe me?  Check out the daily blog, Copenhagen Cycle Chic.  The greatest expert in technique, I’d claim, is Kristin Sullivan: Philadelphia-based biker extraordinaire and former Community Energy employee, who once biked straight from Alaska to Argentina to spread the word about environmental issues.  (Kristin is actually responsible for my career with Community Energy, as she hand-selected me for an internship a number of years back.)  Kristin taught me how to maneuver the Philadelphia streets with confidence – a great primer for the streets of New York City. 

So in honor of Bike Month this May, find an expert or local organization that promotes safe city cycling. (like New York’s Transportation Alternatives), dust off your old bike, and go buy a new helmet!  And make sure to wave to me on the street!