Personal circumstances required me to use the household’s motor vehicle over the last couple of weeks. Timing and distance meant the bicycle wasn’t the preferred option. Things are finally back to normal and I am once again using my bicycle for all the usual short, local journeys.
Because of a self imposed sense of obligation to use my bicycle as often as possible, it always feels strange to be in the car as a solo occupant. A strangeness akin to not brushing one’s teeth before heading off to bed.
On using the car, I am far more forgiving of myself these days than I used to be. Sometimes it is just easier and more convenient to drive. This need to drive in Auckland is reinforced because the public transport system still seems to be a work in progress. And driving a car is still a relatively cheap option for a ‘burb’ dweller.
But there was something I wasn’t prepared for when I finally did get back on my bicycle. It was the views. The perspective. It was like finally removing a pair of glasses with opaque lenses. Exquisite, clear, precise. Connected to my world once again.
Cycling-the non-vehicular way.
Good on you Mark.
I would recommend this webcomic, whis is a bit similar: Yehuda looses a bet with his bike shop co-owner, and has to DRIVE A CAR for a week, rather than commuting by bike. Painful for him.
The little sub-plot in the comic is here and goes on for about 5 more strips – and the comic itself is hilariously funny. Lots of "roadies vs advocates" and other funny takes on all facets of the cycling world:
http://www.yehudamoon.com/index.php?date=2008-08-31
http://www.yehudamoon.com/index.php?date=2008-09-02
Mark, you have a way of writing that speaks quietly and beautifully. This is exactly the kind of thing that encouraged me when I was starting out riding last year.
I like the smells too. The only things I can smell in my car are plastic and abandoned kids socks (unless I percolate something myself – another advantage of cycling!)
I ♥ Yehuda Moon.