Warm Weather Plan
Walking and biking are the favored modes of commuting on warm days. However, walking would not be a good idea when it is excessively hot outside because it would put additional strain on the body. Even though it might be a little too hot for them, riding a bike to work will allow riders to take advantage of the pleasant weather and cool wind. Head and rear lights, a bike pump, and reflective clothing are among the necessary accessories for biking. The purchase price of the bicycle equipped with adjustable gears and a reflector cloth is $269.99 (“Bike Accessories,” n.d.). A rechargeable bike light set costs $15.99, while a mini pump and glue-less puncture repair kit are $18.99 (“Bike accessories,” n.d.). These accessories are used to facilitate the use of a bicycle.
The other bicycle requirements include a helmet, mirrors, and a bike bell. Bicycle adult helmets are worth $39.99, a handlebar mirror costs $22.99, and an aluminum bike bell is $5.99 (“Bike accessories,” n.d.). The bicycle accessories enhance rider safety and increase the rider’s satisfaction. A properly maintained bicycle owner will benefit from smooth riding, financial savings, and increased safety. Unless a problem needs to be addressed, the rider is not charged for the weekly maintenance. Cleaning and lubricating the chain, inspecting the spokes and eyelets of the wheels for rust or damage, and monitoring the tire pressure are all part of the weekly service. However, the rider will be responsible for covering the monthly maintenance expense. Among them is the $20 cost of inspecting and fixing fissures in the rubber and worn-out tires.
The mechanic will inspect the wheel bearings, head stem, suspension, gear cluster, brakes, and chainrings in a bicycle repair shop for $60. The expected annual cost will be $960 because the monthly charge for maintenance is $80. The benefit of adopting a bicycle as a means of transportation to work is the cost savings that result from not needing to buy gasoline to make it move. Cycling is also a physical activity that increases heart rate and oxygen flow, which benefits health. Furthermore, a pleasant, energetic commute can improve mood and promote mental clarity. Cars and light vehicles produced 86 mega tonnes of greenhouse emissions in Canada (Rivers et al., 2020). Since driving is a significant contributor to carbon emissions, biking is essential for preserving the environment.
Cold Weather Plan
It is crucial to adjust a commuting strategy that is safe and sustainable during chilly or winter days. The preferred mode of transportation is public transit since it offers a superior alternative to the frequently congested and hazardous winter driving conditions. A monthly adult bus pass in the Ottawa area costs $125.50 (“Fares,” n.d.). As a result, $1506 will be the anticipated annual cost of transportation. Public transportation is preferred because it cuts costs since parking fees are avoided. Additionally, public transit lowers a person’s carbon footprint, promoting environmental protection. People can unwind by using public transportation since it relieves the stress of driving a personal vehicle. Furthermore, since people must walk to bus stations, public transit is suitable for their health.
References
Bike accessories. (n.d.). Walmart. Web.
Fares. (n.d.). OC Transpo. Web.
Rivers, N., Saberian, S., & Schaufele, B. (2020). Public transit and air pollution: Evidence from Canadian transit strike. Canadian Journal of Economics, 53(2), 496-525. Web.