Alternative Transport

By Andrew


Most of us don’t have the benefit to live within an acceptable walking distance from our place of employment.  This being the case, we are generally left with the options of driving or taking public transportation.  I’m not saying that these are bad options, but they certainly aren’t the best if you’re interested in reducing your environmental impact or improving your fitness and mental wellbeing.  The main alternative option that is probably flashing in your mind is riding a bike, something that I have recently begun to do for my commute to work now that the weather is getting warmer.  As I transitioned to biking, I noticed something wonderful.
 If I was to take the TTC to work it would take me approximately 25-30 minutes depending on transfer timing; when I ride my bicycle to the office, it takes me 15-20 minutes depending on the traffic lights.  I find this time savings quite welcome especially when considering the alternative, standing in a cramped subway or streetcar in rush hour staring at the back of someone’s head.  Don't forget the odd disgruntled passenger, those can be quite interesting and sometimes alarming.  It’s also a great way to unwind after a potentially stressful day as you are able to get in some much needed physical activity, especially if you spent the last couple of hours sitting at a desk staring at a computer screen.


If you’re worried about the price of buying a bike consider this.  A metropass costs $121 (likely soon to increase… again), roughly the cost of your run of the mill mountain bike at a store like Canadian Tire.  However, if you search around local cycling shops or garage sales there is a very good chance that you’ll be able to find a better deal within the $50-80 range.  You get a little green bonus if you go the second hand route as well because you’re sticking with that trusty R, Reuse.  The best part is a good bicycle will likely last you 10 years and up if they are well maintained.  Believe me, bikes are fairly easy to repair as most fixes only require a wrench, a screwdriver, and a patch kit.  There are also several community initiatives and shops which will teach you the basic skills if certain repairs prove too difficult for a novice.  Toronto also has an abundance of specialty bicycle stores in and around the downtown core that would be more than happy to get you started.  A few of my favourites are Dukes and Urbane.


While Toronto currently isn’t the best city for cyclists it is slowly improving.  There are networks of bike lanes crisscrossing the city and it’s not too difficult to find some interesting short cuts as you begin to optimize your route.  Here is a link of bike lanes currently in existence within the city.  Places to park your bike can also be slightly difficult to find, but not impossible if you have the appropriate lock and chain setup.


If you do decide to choose cycling as your commuting option of choice, please abide by the rules of any standard vehicle.  When on a bike, you are not a pedestrian.  Bike on the road, we don't need to crowd up sidewalk space with bikers too scared to go on the streets.  If you are unable to go on the streets and remain dry in your nether-regions then you had better be walking.  Remember to signal when you turn, drivers and other bikers can't see inside your head.  STOP at the bloody stop signs!  And be vigilant. There are far too many crazy drivers out there; taxi’s I’m looking at you.