Using Bicycles As An Alternative To Automobiles

Using Bicycles As An Alternative To Automobiles

Abstract:

This paper basically shows the reasons to use the bicycle as an alternative

mode of transportation. It will points out the benefits of the use of a

bicycle. It will also show what is being done to get

rid of the negative aspects of using a bicycle for

transportation.

Bicycling is one of the fastest growing forms of recreation. People are drawn

to it for many reasons, being out in the fresh air, the thrill of speed, the

physical challenge, along with many other things. But there can be many more

uses for the bicycle. The use that this paper will focus on is transportation.

The use of bicycles can greatly improve the economy of a nation. A comparison

between the efficiency of the transportation systems of the United Stated and

Japan points this out. In 1990 Americans spent 17.9 percent of the GNP on

transportation, whereas the Japanese spent only 10.79 percent on transportation.

This difference of nearly 7 percent, gives the Japanese economy much more money

for investing in their future.

Our Economy is not the only thing we should worry about, and it is also not the

only thing that can be improved by the use of bicycles. There are several major

problems that could be drastically reduced by the increased use of bicycles.

Traffic would be a lot lighter due to the extremely small size of bicycles. It

would also greatly reduce the wear and tear on our roads and highways, and

therefore reduce government expenditure. But one of the most serious problems

it would reduce is that of pollution and smog in out larger cities.

There are more benefits to biking, though. There are benefits that come at a

more personal level.

Biking greatly improves ones health. It can be a way to exercise without taking

much times out of ones schedule. The time one would spend biking to work serves

two important purposes. One, getting to work, but also as a great form of

exercise.

Improved mobility in crowded situations. In downtown areas, biking to work may

actually save time. Cars crawl through congested traffic, while bicyclists ride

around it. The time it takes to park a car...

... middle of paper ...

...(Washington: Transportation Research Board,

1987)

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