Car-Free Life: Replacing Your Car with a Bicycle
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- Опубліковано 24 лип 2024
- I’ve been living without a car for about a year and wanted to give a little backstory on how I made the leap and show some of the gear I use to combat the elements. Bike commuting is a journey and the best way to figure out how to do it is to try it for yourself, but I’m glad to answer what I know! Don’t worry about the unknown: the best artists know that beautiful art will stem from getting lost or wandering off the beaten path and having a journey to find your way back home.
www.maximalmatt.com
Some apparel mentioned (but it’s not about the gear):
State Bicycle 4130 (Rutherford) Single-Speed: www.statebicycle.com/collecti...
Outlier Ultracharge Mag Bandana: outlier.nyc/products/ultracha...
Mission Workshop Faroe Wind Pro Hoodie: missionworkshop.com/products/...
Mission Workshop Orion Waterproof Jacket: missionworkshop.com/collectio...
Mission Workshop Fitzroy Backpack: missionworkshop.com/collectio...
Xero Shoes Z-Trails: xeroshoes.com/shop/clearance/...
Xero Shoes Xcursions Hiking Boots: xeroshoes.com/shop/boots/xcur...
Craft Windproof/Waterproof gloves: www.amazon.com/Craft-Sportswe...
#MissionWorkshop #StateBicycle #CarFree #BikeCommuting #Outlier #SingleSpeed #FixedGear
maximalmatt.com/blog
My dad thinks I'm nuts for not having a car! 😂 He says I'm too old to be on a bike, my dad says only druggies ride bikes! I love riding my bike listening to music! My bike saved me alot of money! I don't care what people say! People at my old job think I don't have a driver's license because they see me on a bike everyday! I hear it all! Some actually think I don't know how to drive! People are Soo negative
I’m glad you are cycling because it makes you happy… hopefully it keeps you happy and healthy (and helps the environment a little to top it off!) :)
That’s so wild to me ppl think like that. My coworker was surprised when I said I had a car because I rode my bike to work. Why drive when I can bike? Also must say I love that Midwest ppl will ride in almost any weather. Madison’s where I lived when I learned the joy of commuting by bike 😊
@@tb5124 My dad is negative about everything I do in life! I'm still on a bike and I don't have to pay high gas prices either! People judge 24/7 but I don't care what they think! Most think I'm poor to be on a bike! I'm healthy and I lost 10 lbs riding a bike!
Your dad sounds like a dick then it’s sad for him to say druggies ride bikes some people can’t afford a car
I’m 54 I hardly ever drive my car he’d really think I’m to old 😂
I went car free for a bike 2 years ago and wish I did it sooner, I even made a trailer for it to carry big loads of shopping.
The one thing you need to do is not care what others think, because you will get a lot of comments for not having a car.
I like to think of it as getting funny looks for cash.
It’s very true, the judgment can be real!
When you look up at the stars which ones catch your eye? Probably the ones that are unusually bright. Let your light shine my friend :), people are just curious creatures perhaps :).
that is a hilarious yet most truthful aspect. I never thought of it that way! 😂
For commuters switching to Publix transport I recommend Brompton folding bikes. Changed my life! Our SUV is going in January. We also have a car provided by my work. Girlfriend cycles to work every day. I have to visit clients all over France. We have a fantastic rail system and they accept my Brompton as luggage. Recent trips to paris and lyon went so well and my clients really appreciated my new way of working.
That’s great advice and excellent that clients are supporting you on top of it!
In the US & Canada there are some places that allow you to travel with full size bikes. If you take Amtrak I think they pretty much always let you bring a full size bike for $10. Local transit is another thing, but many buses have bike racks on the front, and some metro rail systems do allow you to bring bikes on board.
Of course, it's no paradise... if you're going between cities there's no guarantee that there's even a train once a day, and the quality of local public transit varies dramatically.
Agreed! Bromptons are fantastic! I Love mine too.
I just bought 2 Bromptons so I can ride with family and friends. I can attach the second one to my Burly Travois to bring over to a friend's house. People get to try it and think a little differently for a moment...
I thought i was a complete loner when i bought my bike to commute to work and around my town, greatest invest of my life, and looking at the comments, makes me happy I wasn't alone in my decision!
Glad you decided to do what's best for you. You're definitely not alone and I'm glad it worked for you!
I sold my car via Carmax in June 2022. Easy! I didn't use it very much, as I work from home and have my groceries delivered. Yes, it costs some extra to get delivered, but it is nothing compared to insurance, gasoline, tires, oil changes, mechanical upkeep, and the annual license registration. It has calmed me down about my rent increasing, grocery increases and utility increases. I walk more. Within a mile of my home, I can meet people for coffee, lunch, and dinner. I have a drugstore and grocery store within 1 mile. No public transport near my home. I use Amazon for other things. No Prime needed if you can wait a day or two. If I have a doctor appointment or an event downtown, I will take an Uber. I have an entry in my budget for transportation. It is easy during the summer, we'll see how I feel in the winter. Thanks! I live in Idaho, USA. No bike yet, but am thinking about it. Thanks for the info!
Glad to hear you’re making the car-free life work and saving cash on top of it! I bet you will thrive this winter too as long as you have some excellent winter apparel!
I've been car-free since 1996. I commute by bike year-round here in Toronto. Winters can be a challenge, but they're doable. Makes the other 3 seasons that much nicer. 😉
Bike commuting in Toronto is very impressive!
What bike do you ride in winter?
Amazing! I decided to bought a bike instead of a car and im loving it! I basically use my RoadBike to go to the gym , market and some places at my city
Congrats to you on making the decision! Great for your health and great for the world!
Where do you put all the groceries when coming home ?
@@Wisdomking77 - There's a huge variety of bags and baskets that will fit on bikes. I have two pannier bags that hang on the back rack, and a basket on top of that. It doesn't take up much space, but they hold all the groceries I tend to need.
I'm 70 and yes people think I'm crazy. They can't even imagine being without their bubble with a comfy seat.
"Its to cold" I'm told, yeah when you're standing in the cold it's quite cold until the pedaling begins!
70 and bike commuting is amazing! I hope more people strive for this
Depending on a bicycle is definitely a mental adjustment more than physical, my opinion.
Hi Jim, I'm but 60 and have been car free for 11 years now and do everything with bike. When people ask me if I'm cold I tell them "only when I stop". When they ask if I'm hot I give them the same answer. Works for me, and it is, as you know, perfectly true. I understand the gossip that will happen: Must be homeless, must have DUI's, must be a nutter, just be trying to prove something etc. I try to explain that the danger of riding in the super cold is the same as riding in the heat and riding in the rain, viz. overheating. No one believes it. No matter. Keep on keeping on. Being an example is very important. Best.
@@bigmandrel that is an amazing streak of car-free life! And props for being true to yourself despite the social stigmas. Keep on keeping on!
For me, it's not just about how cold, but what the chill factor is, when the wind picks up. Winters here in Melbourne (Aust) can be, and are, at times bloody brutal.
Today is one such day. Solution- later on I will rug up, and ride my Ebike, for my daily exercise ride.
Also I would definitely recommend getting a winter beater bike. You don't want to get all that slush and salt on your nice bike.
I’ve gone very car lite and I’m quite happy! For me, the killer combo is a Brompton folding bike and an electric cargo bike. The Brompton is fantastic for shorter trips, mixed modalities, and the flexibility to carry it on any train or stash it in the boot of a car. It can even carry a decent load! The electric cargo bike enables me to take longer trips, faster trips, and carry really large amounts of cargo! Between these two bikes, it’s very rare indeed that I need to take a car anywhere!
“Comfy, not like my bike!” That saddle is jacked UP above your bars. Full Racing Mode, Yo! 😂 Generally, a sensible bike with rack to hold a saddle bag or two, a set of fenders (crucial with wet weather), some gears, and upright position to see traffic well, and not stress your back and neck.
I love riding my bike. It really does make your life so much happier! Great Video!
Haha yeah, I am about 6’4” and it’s tough to find a well-fitting bike! That was the only way to make this one work. After I shot that video I did end up getting a bike with gears that’s a little taller
I don't recommend a backpack. Having a sweaty back isn't worth the weight savings of not having a rack.
I say let the bike carry the load.
100% back this comment
Good for you Matt! Good for the planet, good for your health, and good for you wallet!
Each to their own of course, but I think there's something to be said for footwear that
offers a little more protection than sandals ... None of us ever think we're going to have
an accident do we ... Stay safe out there! :-)
I appreciate your kind words! Your suggestion is very well appreciated and very valid as well. In fact, I had an ankle sprain in an accident about a month after filming this and have since shifted to more protective shoes on longer rides. So I believe you are spot on and I take back my sandals input :). The ankle is healing now and I’m back on the bike :)
As someone who bike commutes year round in STL for 17 years now, I applaud you on doing your commute without gears, fenders, and a rack in STL!!
Posted this after just that first pic of the bike. Fenders, to me, is a must. I use full, installed fenders, but you address that.
@@jimspies2775 I should do a follow-up video! I've learned a lot via trial and error the last few years. One is that my legs needed gears, and I did eventually switch to a bike with gears in mid-2022 :)
You bike in the winter?? Where do you live? What is STL???
@@namename-qq4tc yes, I live in Saint Louis. It took me a lot of trial and error to get the layering right. Depending on where you live it may or may not be worth it. Minnesota or North Dakota for example would be much more challenging :)
@@namename-qq4tc Personally, I wouldn't want to give up 4 months of the year. We have pretty mild winters in STL, generally (especially the last 10-15, thanks climate change). Our coldest average high in January is still 38F. We will have some days in the teens/twentys (F), and a very occasionally 0F low, but that's maybe 1-2 times a winter. I'll take winter in STL over July-August (95+F, high humidity) anytime!
Hey Matt nice video, please make more of these, we need more like you in every city, keep it up
I've been doing it since 1972 in Indiana, Texas, Florida and Arizona, and find this video to be spot on.
I did learn some things.
Terrific information, thanks.
Excellent! Just what I needed. Thanks for sharing, as finding the right cloths for my long rides in the cold is imperative. Good job.
I ride my bike to work to the grocery and everywhere else
.... I'm a cyclist since 14 years old anyway but I sold my mint condition 1990 Mercury Cougar Bostonian more than a year ago (68,000 original miles) and while I miss the luxury of that car I miss nothing else!!!!! Thank you for posting this information; it's really helpful and supportive. Kind regards.
Excellent encouraging video‼️❣️
Car free in Houston for 5 years. I don’t worry about rain. I sweat thinking about sweating so I’m going to get wet. This past summer was tough - over 100 for many days. My commute is 10 miles each way but it’s do-able. Grocery shopping and shopping for anything is possible. Just get creative.
I don't envy those summer temps. Major props for continuing through it!
Aspirational!!
😅 If I am ever pain free one day, I would love to take my bike out again. Thank you for sharing the good life!
We are looking for a car free life. We have a 200 miles commute that we need to do. That's a mini-bicycle tour regularly. It is our dream to bike it. Subscribed.
200 miles, wow! That’s beyond my abilities too :). What a great goal to strive for. Hope you make it one day and when you do, major bragging rights!
Before you rent or buy a house you are ment to make sure the commute time to work is least. Then you get rid of the car. Not the other way round.
@@befree9579 Apparently it has 6 figures of mortgage savings that way too as well as the saving of not keeping a car, if you buy a house within cycling commute. According to another YT video on the topic. Well worth considering. I wish I did consider this 10+ years ago. I can do it now luckily but dread to think the amount capital I wasted for not clueing up to this sooner over the last decade.
@@AlizBodo Ye Aliz, we live and learn from our choices after finding out new alternatives.
Housing, Food and Transportation will always be the biggest monthly expense for adults. Keeping them at bare minimum is key to having lots money left over.
Hell yeah! great video!
That's a hefty daily ride .nice work, 🍺
Well said. Very inspirational. 🚲
The high intensity rock music juxtaposed with swimming in the ocean, and cycling in the woods is rather fun.
Your video is very inspiring. Thank you!
Thanks for the kind words!
I decided only a few months into driving that having a car wasn't for me. Been biking ever since. Sometimes it can screw me up badly like leaving early for a thunderstorm that never actually comes = a whole day wasted at work... but for the most part I enjoy it more.
I hear ya. The weather never seems to hit as predicted!
For footwear i think something flexible and something that can repel water is really what you want, also added protection do your feet is always good, so that if you are unlucky to hit your foot somehow, at least you won't hurt much, maybe buy some athletic shoes that don't really have many gaps for water, and if you want to ensure water doesn't get into your socks, i suggest getting some pants that are tight towards the end, basically so it doesn't let any water in, bonus if they are also water proof, being wet makes you a lot more cold than you would think, but also would be good to get something that is thick and not thin, so that even if you are not wet you still would be warm.
I have Brompton and - its love at first ride. Works great, unparalled for stopping for a beer on the way home - roll right into the pub.
They look perfect for that!
Excellent winter clothing choices. I'm going to try a single speed this winter, I find snow and ice on bad days can really make things problematic with multiple gears. . I do have an internal hub but it freezes up at around -5C.
Nice! Yeah, winter can be a challenge. There are days when I just have to use a rideshare app or take public transit, but I try to minimize them!
About the gears that freeze up. Usually it's water/humidity in the cable housing that freezes and stops the wire from moving. If you visit a bike shop (or do it yourself) they should be able to help you. Basically changing the cable and housing, and putting some oil in. Oil has a lower freezing point. If any water/humidity gets in it will be diluted with the oil.
Sometimes it also makes sense to replace cable routing that partially exposes the wire with one that is continuous from the shifter to the rear hub. Basically to protect the cable from the elements.
Shimano also has a thing with article number RSMNX10 that can be installed on the housing to simplify putting oil in the housing in the future.
With all this said. The internal hub can freeze and that is fixed by servicing it. But that is was less common than just humidity in the cable housing.
(I ride in below freezing every winter, -5 to -10 °C, that's 23 to 14 23°F)
The curious thing is: if you ride an e-bike (pedal assist!) neither heat nor cold are too problematic. Heat is great. Riding an eBike is like sitting in front of the perfect fan. Literally no sweat or insects attracted by that sweat. - Cold: wrapped up in waterproof gear you get pleasantly warm from your movement but not sweating because your movement is very moderate. Try it, you will never want to ride anything else again 😀
I’ve heard nothing but great things and have considered one, especially for the longer commutes!
Yes indeed, I have 3 bicycles. A nice carbon road bike, with all the 'bling' A steel frame single speed, heavy 11 kgs "beast" - for a good workout, and an Ebike, for going to the shopping Mall, has massive rear luggage frame/bag.
@@mattmcginnis7048 Just do it Matt. Get an Ebike. I have 3 bicycles. An all steel single speed, 11 kg. beast for 'workout' - an Avanti all carbon frame/fork/ handle bar and seat post. DuraAce g/set - this is my most ridden bicycle. Then my Ebike with huge rear carry rack/ shopping bag attached. This bike is my utility bicycle, my shopping jeep. Also use my Ebike when it's windy, & too severe for 'normal' bicycle use. It has 9 levels of pedal assist, i ride it at level 5 - 50% battery & 50% me. It too can be used for exercise purposes, or if I feel lazy - just use hand twist throttle, no pedalling at all, & sit on 30 kms/hr. Think that is around 18 miles/hr.
Mine cost Aust$2000.
@@kevinbourke4038 I think you've convinced me... great setup!!!
@@mattmcginnis7048 Good, an Ebike will make a huge change in your life.
You can save money on the base layer by getting Omni Wool, it's about half the cost and the same materials
Great suggestion!
That's one sweet bike ..
Much appreciated!!!
nice vid, this is my 9th year of car less live D. Just grab a taxi or online drive service if I have emergency situation
9 years is awesome! I’m 2 years in now and hope to get there as well :)
Brother rider Matt: The chains of car ownership have made me soft and weak. I long to ride again once I am free of the car. I need to feel the wind, hear the sound of gears spinning and feel my body moving as one with my bike. I want to live again..
Well, just do it !
I hope you can bike again soon. Even if you aren't able to live without a car, it's a worthwhile hobby!
I didn’t buy a car till I was 40. I biked everywhere before then. I sold my car just before the pandemic. I was still biking lots, and my car just sat around. Work had me renting vehicles when we needed to go into the field so I didn’t even need my car for work.
It’s nice having the extra money in my account rather than going to insurance, gas, plates, maintenance, etc. I don’t have any plans to buy another car. Maybe another bike, but not a car.
Excellent job! The extra savings are well deserved :)
Yea it’s like 400-600 a month so 4800-7200 per year to keep a car. Instead I bought an electric unicycle which I love loads and gets me everywhere. And now have an extra 5k a year to spend on vacation or savings. Or hookers, whatever I want.
Electric unicycle! Cool. Some guy who lives nearby has one. In the summers I see him zooming down the road at a good speed, tunes blasting. I’ve mentioned him to some friends and they’ve seen him too. He gets around town on that thing. We’ve all been tempted to buy one for ourselves after seeing him fly by. It looks fun.
@@chrisconnors7418 it is extremely fun, I got mine two weeks and 3 days ago and learned to go fast on it. It feels like pure euphoria, like a post nut clarity but you realize you did it with a chick who’s hot, you you’re proud of yourself and feel full bliss. At fast speeds and high leans it feels like you’re flying with iron man boots and you’re on top of the world. No better feeling then feeling each and every dopamine receptor in your head and testosterone flow through your blood stream
I've been car free for 13 years. It's easily one of the best decisions I've ever made!
That is an amazing investment!
Became car free in June 2022. No regrets so far!
I hope to see more videos from you. Maybe, Maybe a bike ride this fall :)
New bikepacking video will upload in a few days! :)
Great talking points.
For 20 yrs I didn’t have a car cause I lived in NYC. But then I moved out to Long island NY where everyone has a car. But I still am bicycle only. Not only is it cheaper, but it keeps me in great shape. Perhaps I’ll get an electric car someday. In a pinch I can call an uber… but my bike is all I need really. 🚴 👍🏼
What part of LI are you in?
This week i was talking to my dad about having a life without car, he was telling me that's impossible and i'm crazy, because he's completely addicted to car life and never known anything else
For most of those that live in far flung exurbs, car dependency is sadly necessary.
@@SteffiReitsch like i am unfortunately, i bought myself an Electric Unicycle to replace less than 20km rides, by the way i always ride my motorcycle most of the year, i can easily be a month without touching the car at all
@@MathieuTechMotohah I also bought a v12hs for my commute. I get enough range for like 40-50 km per day easily. With a ton of battery to spare, and it’s a shit ton more fun
I'm 67 and never learned to drive any motorized vehicles. Been bike touring 41 years since 1982. 1982 to 2018 I worked 3 months each summer so I could bike tour September to May. I retired from work in January 2018. Now I tour the same months but get social security.
I did this for a few years in Calgary and Vancouver. The key is to buy a mountain bike with some shocks and have a small trailer. The winter is pretty simple as you will just try different clothes that work for you. The hardest part are the hills, in the rain or snow and the crazy amount of wind sometimes. Biking put me in the best shape of my life easily. Also be sure to bike slowly as this will keep your cortisol levels low and help you keep a low body fat percentage which also makes biking easier.
To keep cycling enjoyable, keep it serviced by a professional, tyres pumped up, your body hydrated and stomach full to avoid running out of energy. This way, any wind or hills that you encounter will be at least bearable.
Is anybody from the UK doing this?
I’m planning to do this Next year. Commit to a year then review.
I have switched school runs to cycling in preparation.
I'm a fan of making big changes slowly. There's a lot involved in going carless. I've done it for periods of my life. At other times it would have been very difficult or impossible - for example if your partner is disabled or chronically ill.
Important thing is to be flexible.
See if I go slow on a big change I’m probably not going to do it
@@MyLifeInDebt , good luck Michael!
I owe so much to bicycling. Fast change or slow change, it's all good.
Once you commit to car free, you have a sudden ability to factor things in. For example, you'll hire a car if going afar. You'll leave more time to get somewhere if riding rather than driving.
But watching yourself suddenly have more disposable cash is fun. All these benefits that you didn't expect, are now there to enjoy:- better mental, physical and financial health. The banks and road patrol personnel can no longer touch you. Gas prices no longer bother, nor does concerns about traffic congestion or parking. Is there a car theft problem in your area? That won't bother you now. I could go on, but you get the idea.
@@noelgibson5956 , big advantages to going car-free! Thanks.
An alternative is going Low-car. I have a car that's 24 years old, driven only when I really need to. Expenses are much lower than for a late model car.
car free baby matt!
I used to bike commute 20+ miles too. Then with the money i saved by not running a car i could afford to move to the city where i worked. Bikes are the fastest thing round a city. Sweet ride btw, SS rules ✊
I have thought about just having 1 car in our house because I bike commute about 175 days a year and rarely use it. It's tough to make the leap though because I end up using the car a couple times a month.
You could rent a car when you need one
My current job has me driving for them. I'd like to avoid paying the cost for the car but I need the money. Finding a job is really tough rn and my skills are limited. What can I do?
I've been car free for 10years and love it in Venice FL..
the waterproof shorts is a good idea. I have to check that. But I guess there is no way you can keep your feet dry if you don't use waterproof pants
Waterproof booties. I use the Proviz reflective overshoes. They make my feet look radioactive at night!
Matt: Love your video. I use sandals also when I ride my bicycle, more comfortable on my feet. Some call me "Jesus" because I do that. I live in the cold winter Chicago area so I can't get ride of my plastic and metal master ( car). Have you had any accidents/ spills? Riding is more dangerous than driving but I love to ride anyway.
I have had two accidents. I was hit by a car about two years ago (not preventable) and crashed over a tree branch last year (preventable). It can be dangerous and I hope US city infrastructures improve to make it more optimized as a lifestyle!
Thinking about ditching cars. My car just shit the bed and I live in greater Boston, plenty of walking/biking distance jobs. Winters have been getting milder
Never been to Boston but I always hear great things. Hope you can make it happen!
I have ridden both fixed gear as well as a single speed and I did that all when I was about 7 years old No Lie
Fixed gear riders impress me! 7 is amazing
Hello! where did you get the holder for the lock?
Hi! It’s from a company called “Huldit”: huldit.com. Hope this helps!
Unless you live up to 5km from your workplace and there's reliable public transportation as plan B, don't sell your car! I live 16km away from my work and it's a real pain to get there. It takes 50 minutes by bike, 50 minutes by public transport, 30 by car. There are multiple steep inclincations on the way. During summer it's possible to ride your bike if you take a change of clothes. You'll get sweaty, especially your back if you have a backpack. You'll get sweaty too even if you dress in anti sweat clothes and put your stuff on a carrier! If you have to go anywhere else afterwards (doctor, meeting with friends, etc.) you will smell even if you took a shower at work. You have to prepare laundry almost every day. But it's doable though cumbersome.
However, in winter this is entirely different kettle of fish. You still have to take a change of clothes. The weather impacts your hands to the point they hurt, even if you put really sturdy winter gloves! The roads are covered in mud or slippery snow. You have to clean your apparell every time you return home. Yes, even with mudguards.
Now think of people who have small children - are they going to travel with them? How? What if they're ill? What if you get ill? What if you get pain in your knees (As you're past 25 you start to get those)? Will you be able to travel to work/grocery/doctor by public transport?
Don't get me wrong, I'm not trying to disencourage you from selling your car or buying a bike. I'm sharing my experiences as a long distance commuter. Don't jump on biking bandwagon just because you want to save the planet or you recently got a lot of those type of videos recommended by UA-cam.
Electric options can make that commute real easy. If you live a bit far look into Personal electric vehicles, they are a life saver
The biggest problem with bicycles on the road are the motorized vehicles. Many drivers do respect bicyclists. Unfortunately there are many motorists that don’t understand the responsibility and courtesy of the motorized road.
A neat-o idea-r would be a 4 wheeled bicycle built for 12 or so. Like a city bus but everybody peddles. No lazy or dumb people would be aloud to mount such a fabulous form of transportation…
A very good point and it's a legitimate issue/risk! I have been hit by a car once (hit and run) that resulted in a sprained ankle
@@mattmcginnis7048 I have had many close calls with cars. I’m now in my 60’s, I converted my mountain bike into a 750 watt e-bike. High visibility vest helps a lot. I also made a large flag on a 6’ foot fiberglass rod that helps even more, and a must when commuting in any traffic.
I really like my e-bike build. Hills are no problem at all. Not much sweating, it’s very low impact, high fresh air and exhilaration.
Well, if you live in a perfect climate, such as San Diego, CA, going the bike route would be relatively easy. Try doing the same in Minot, North Dakota, and, well, that's a different story. ❄
I'm a rural Canadian and I love biking but I concur .Completely impracticable that being said the people in Canadian cities think there is no world outside their own bubble . I can liken it to the notion of EV's and what a joke EV trucks are .
@@rdhudon7469 Same as it always was. Identical situation here in the states, with the city folks thinking that all knowledge and wisdom will die with them. I think you'll see a backlash begin to take shape, with average folks not wanting these preposterous EV's shoved down their throats. In fact, the state legislature in Wyoming is to consider a bill that would outright ban EV's in that jurisdiction. Cheers and stay warm.
almost 60, ever had 1 car (2005 -2007) and otherwise done everything by bicycle or public transport.
I like the idea of commuting daily with bicycle but as a car guy, I do still want to drive car for fun
Then do one better.
Get a proper, utterly impractical sports car.
And don't ever commute with it!
@@gromm93 You don't typically daily drive such car. You take them to a fun ride or track day and have fun
i've been living without a car since 2015, i feel like i just need to sit in front of a camera and talk about why i did that and explain to my friends and family lol
I've never had a car a single day in my life... and it was upsetting to be quite honest. Seeing all the people that I knew getting their own vehicle and I'm just left behind..I was staying with a relative more than several years ago and I was very vocal about working towards a car (which is what I was doing at that time but situations and circumstances KEPT GETTING IN THE WAY!!) So she said to me "look there's a nice bicycle".. and I was like "you've got to be kidding me!!! Bikes are for kids or less fortunate people". Yes I did say that at the time because I wasn't looking for a bicycle. But long story short...that rusty blue bike at some pawn shop I reluctantly got and fell in love with it....then some unfortunate things happened.... fast forward to now...I have my second bicycle and now I love the two wheeled life.. maybe one day I'll evolve into getting a motorcycle if things go well
It was upsetting for me as well. I am 31 years old and I've never owned a car. Eventually I came to the conclusion that I don't really need a car in most circumstances. And it's very taxing in a lot of ways. While I have enough money to buy myself a nice car it is much better to spend them otherwise.
@@rasky1991 yes I can agree that in general having a car is far more taxing. The expenses that go into it can be overwhelming at times especially if something unfortunate happens (GOD FORBID). The gas prices of course...then the maintenance and inspections:(depending on what state you live in).
Took me a while to figure out which direction your left elbow was bent
How long is it taking you to ride 20 miles on a fixie
About 90 minutes usually. One thing to note is I eventually got a bike with gears in 2022. My legs couldn't handle it that consistently (surprise surprise I guess) :)
ive been on my fixie for almost a year now, legs are stumps, lungs are back, wallet is a little thicker.
ride safe man
Winter sucks when it's snowing, the roads are frozen and not flat, and cold (I forgot my gloves, my hand peeled off 😅) And it takes a lot of time to travel 😬 Where's your winter coat?🤔
In winter I emphasize layering: a base layer, something like a fleece or lightly insulated jacket, and waterproof shell. For the head, a balaclava. I found my fingers were getting frosty this year and now wear winter ski gloves instead of cycling gloves. If it snows a lot you’ll either need to switch tires or have a winter “beater bike.” A lot of it is trial and error (I am still learning too), and things will vary by location. Hope this helps!
i haven't owned a gas vehicle for 15 years. Public transport is everywhere in asia and for the other 90% of travel it's the bicycle. Not sure the "west" it would be so easy
Good for you! Admittedly in the west it is not easy in a lot of places. I’m glad you are able to use good public transport and a bicycle! :)
Flat or drop bars?
I think either can work and it depends on your use case. Drops are great if you also want to use the bike for some fitness cycling as well (you might find sprinting easier). Flats are great if you want a more relaxed posture on the bike or are considering a front rack for carrying bags (might be easier to fit the bag).
I often ride my bicycle when solo, but with 4 children i still need a car to get evwryone from point A to point B. And, no, im not letting my children ride in the painted bike gutters with cars whizzing around.
Is that commute 20 miles each way or round trip?
20 miles each way. I should make a follow-up video though. Eventually the body wore down (surprise surprise?) and I needed a bike with gears :)
@@mattmcginnis7048 Bikes with heads are better for longer commutes! Which bike did you end up getting?
@@dansugardude2655 I ended up with a Fuji Jari gravel bike. I like to ride trails here and there and it's very versatile. So far so good
I'm a commuter myself its awsome but where I'm at they barely have sidewalks so it's kinda hard and I kinda make others mad
I hear ya. We have a very long way to go before most US cities have bicycle-friendly infrastructure
I had to quit driving due to a medical condition bought a bicycle to get around and for the most part i dont miss not having a car.
One less Car!
I got rid of the car, and im 59 years old and ride my bike to an Amazon warehouse , my Roomate says im going to have to get another car as ill get too old to ride, yeah right.
I’ll stick to a car thanks ! Kind of difficult carrying tools on a bike
I agree and understand the sentiment espoused here in this video though I don't agree with most of the advice. Without exploring each one (and there are many advisements here), I'll keep it simple as follows.
The first one: "Get rid of your car".
When I was in business (have since retired) I had a van and needed to transport hundreds of lbs. of product to my truck every week. If I mindlessly sold my vehicle it would soon become obvious that that was a big problem. So just selling one's vehicle as a first step wasn't given much thought; what works for one person may not be workable, at all, for another.
Recommending a fixie bicycle may be great for you but for many who live in windy, hilly terrain your advice becomes very narrow focused. For those buying a bicycle the best ones, in general, are the bikes that need minimal maintenance, don't suffer for the rain, are inexpensive enough to be stolen without too much pain, and are fitted correctly to your body and way of cycling. A belt driven bicycle (google the company that specializes in this type of bicycle: Priority Bicycles) with multiple internal hub speeds is one suggestion. And, though an e-bike violates some of my guidelines here, it overcomes the wind and the hills while (for the assist only models) still giving you a workout.
Clothing is a highly complicated matter which I won't say much about but, a hooded wind/rain breaker, on a bicycle? Hooded clothing operates as a parachute for most cyclists and isn't a good idea. I won't get into any detail but, really?
1:20 do not just do it. At least confirm you can use it to get to work. (For example, my work doesn’t have bike racks, but they did allow me to get a foldable bike and bring it into the office)
I recognize St. Louis when I see it! I recently totaled my car at the Skinker exit on 40 and I’ve relied on my bike since. I just take my bike on the metrolink or bus. Stl transit works best in tandem with bike
Glad you are riding your bike! Hoping the Brickline Greenway gets completed before too long, it should solve a lot of bike commuting problems
You also need a shower when you get to work. My building the shower is currently broken.
Brother rider Matt: There must be a release from the slavery of car ownership!! I must be set free to ride! I long to feel the wind in my hair and the pumping of my muscles...
Because it's winter my metal and plastic master has me dominated and defeated every day
I'm so freaking out of shape I can't even handle five minutes going down the road with a bike. How do I fix that?! TWENTY MILES ONE DAY?! I can barely do 1 mile!
Just do something , at least walk some , but you have to do some physical activity
e bike and start small
When first starting, a few miles can feel like a long way. The great thing about cycling though is that because it’s a low impact activity, it’s possible to improve endurance more easily than something like running. One idea is starting with routine rides to a nearby park and back and slowly increasing how many laps around the park to do. For really long commutes, a few of my colleagues also use e-bikes, which I’ve considered too. Hope this helps!
you forgot the helmet
I love biking but you have to be realistic especially if you cross bridges or tunnels I bike more for enjoyment n use my car sparingly….. nice video though….
I run and ride bike barefoot.
The metal at the beginning doesn’t fit at all lol
Do you wear or helmet?
Yes :)
Just curious. No judgment here. It's a personal decision.
Matt / brother rider: I'm using my car now and the gas pumps are punishing me without mercy...
Yeah, there are plenty very valid reasons to own a car. But the cost of ownership is unfortunately steep…
$1000 a month car payments,, no comment ...
Yeah, midwest is where i live . I've ridden in cold , and the wind chill is what is dangerous. Wind breakers , and even your crotch area need windbreakers for the wind. Just watch that you also dont sweat, or over heat, and breathable vents on your clothes , because if you do sweat or wet, that's not too good either. Im not hard-core if it drops too low in temperature.
ive been car free for about 13 years now, best decision I ever made, well other than marrying my wife ;)
Good for you! I hope to have a similar streak!
Where i live that bike would last a day before its stolen.
I sold 3 of my cars for a road bike
I refuse to get a single speed.
Why not try one, you may even like the idea of the simplicity and lack of complication, compared to the latest and expensive, road or MTBs.
@@kevinbourke4038 I built one once but it somehow sprouted an Alfine 8 after a while.
@@solarheat9016 would you please educate me. An Alfine 8 ? No comprehend
@@kevinbourke4038 Shimano's premium 8 speed internal geared hub. It is highly reliable and mostly silent thanks to some seller clutches. Unlike the Rohloff it can be used with a tensioner. I put my single speed wheel (Phill Wood, White Industries Trials Freewheel, and Mavic rim) on a single speed downhill bike with a Chris's King front hub I also built. That was fun until my wheels got stolen off my bike in front of my apartment. Thus ended my single speed days.
I will never get rid of my car as it gets me to the outdoor activities I love.
The irony of that.
Cycling is an outdoor activity too.
Personally, I live in a place where it's also not even remotely uncommon to see someone with a snowboard or skis on the bus or train. It happens every day in winter.
@@gromm93 yes, cycling is an outdoor activity. I take my full suspension bike to the trailhead with my car.
step 1 buy a bike. step 2 sell the car
That's not a good day-to-day bike. If it rains, you get pretty dirty and you always have to bend over.