Tail wind

Why cycling? What is behind my interest in placing my behind on a *tiny* seat and trusting that I can balance on two wheels?

Firstly, I don't have a car. Why? Well, my choice to not have a car was not planned. It happened, shall we say, by accident. However, despite frustrations at delays and disconnected timetables, the car-free life slowly grew on me, and I began to rely more and more on trains and buses for my daily commute, and other journeys. This acceptance and eventual enthusiasm for public transport, also made me more aware of cycling as an alternative mode of travel.

Until recently, I've never really lived in areas that are friendly for cycling (or at least to get to my workplace). But I am fortunate to work for Fairfield City Council (FCC), an organisation that definitely values two-wheeled transport as a valid means of travel. And this has encouraged my interest in cycling too. FCC has proven they believe in cycling as a valuable asset for the community. They have allocated and spent money to plan and construct a significant and "commutable" network of shared pathways for commuter and recreational cyclists, as well as pedestrians to all enjoy.

Thirdly, I moved into the Fairfield Council area and lived close to work, so I certainly had no excuses. I finally put my interest into action. In my next post, I'll tell you more about exactly where I went to get started.

Getting upright

Thanks for stopping by. Like my past experience with a bicycle, this blog is minimalist. Everyone starts somewhere, right? This blog is also starting six months late, but that means hindsight will help me get underway.

From the title, I've given you the impression I'm some kind of a rider of bicycles. Again, not an experienced one, not an obsessive one, just a beginner. Learning the basics, and taking it slow. Hanging on tightly and trying hard not to embarrass myself. Certainly succeeding at hanging on tightly.

As I look back on my journey, and continue up through the gears, I hope you will check in on my progress. Staying on is progress, right? I look forward to sharing my experiences with you.