Portland OR from the Burnside Bridge
There is a friendly competition that happens every September called the Bicycle Commute Challenge. It’s hosted by the BTA. Companies and teams compete to see who can get the most number of people on bikes commuting to work, and they also tally the number of miles ridden. I’m on an assignment at a company who has taken this to another level, with badges awarded to participants. Some of the merits include: first ride of the season*, helping another cyclist, riding every day in September, having the heaviest bike, group rides*, not hitting a cat, riding and taking the MAX*, riding over a hill*, and there are more!
When I first moved to Portland, I could not believe how many people rode here and how hard core they were, too. This image was made on my first real commute – 6.7 miles along a bike route designated for mostly cyclist. There are signs with directions and miles to your destination posted. I’ve done this twice now, getting lost of the route both times. Getting back on track is easy: look for the other riders. The good news: it’s mostly downhill to work. Needless to say, I don’t ride home. I also won’t ride in the rain (I am still a Cali Girl…) All public transport are equipped to handle the bikes.
At first, I was only going to ride a couple times to help with the competition. But I think I’m beginning to like it…a lot.
It only takes a few more minutes than the MAX.
And I don’t have to rush to get to the MAX stop.
I listen to the rhythm of the gears as I pedal.
I see gardens when I ride through the residential streets.
I was cheerily greeting people I passed today.
This could be a habit, at least until the assignment is over.
*badges I’ve won