Quadra Bikes

Rider Profiles

Karen Bailey

Teacher at Timberline Secondary

 

Where do you ride your bike?

I ride to work every day. It's a 14km ride each way. I also ride anywhere else that I need to go by myself. I try to make arrangements for appointments etc. that allow me to ride even up to 150km.

How often do you ride?

I ride daily. I have been using a bicycle for transportation for over 35 years. Only if there is too much snow or ice (as in Alberta winters!) do I resort to other ways to get around.

Advice you have for someone starting out?

Be prepared to get wet! Have waterproof bags/backpack to carry your change of clothes. It's not as bad as it sounds. In fact, once you start doing it as a regular routine, you will miss it if you have to use a vehicle instead. Make it a habit before you give up

What is some essential gear for cyclists?

Waterproof bags of some sort for your change of clothes. Also, a breathable rain jacket and pants. If you have waterproof footwear, it would make things more pleasant. And, lights!! These do NOT need to be expensive ones. In fact, the really expensive ones do not rate higher than the cheap ones, for the most part.

How do you stay safe on the road?
A car is not safe either. But, you are more vulnerable on a bicycle. Riding on the sidewalk is not only illegal, it is not safer. Have lights, be sure to stay in a visible spot on the road (this is not always on the side of the road), always wear a helmet, and read the rules of the road before you begin bearing in mind that you have to obey the same rules as the drivers.

Why do you ride a bike?

I  pay less in insurance since I don't use my car for work, I save on gas, I save on car repairs, I pay less in ferry costs, I stay in shape, and, most importantly, I am practicing rather than preaching about environmental stewardship. Fo me, it's much easier to do this than for lesser-abled people for whom I have an enormous respect and who are so inspirational. Since I have been blessed with good health, it is an easy pleasure to ride rather than use a vehicle.