Effecient inner city transportation

So I love the overpriced, testosterone-driven supercars as much as the next red blooded male, but the two wheeled zero emission (Not counting the human gas.) pedal powered apparatus has its advantages.

When traveling frequently in the inner city for short distances, the bicycle is king. Just look at the New York bike messenger service. No more circling the block multiple times awaiting a parking spot to open up. No more idling in gridlock traffic polluting the air while your engine overheats in the August sun.

Sure, you can't carry as much nor are you protected from the elements as a car provides, but for short jaunts around town, it is actually faster to get around powered by your own two feet.

I love riding my bike for leisure as well. The sense of community you feel with other cyclists around you is a nice benefit. Aside from getting some fresh air along the bikepaths, you get more of a sense of accomplishment knowing that you've arrived on your own power. I packed my bike with some saddlebags and stuffed camping gear and pedaled about a 50 miles to my campsite. The knowledge of having my food and shelter as well as getting there on my own power was gratifying.

From a visual acuity point of view, the bike moves a lot slower than a car so you will have plenty of time to identify and avoid potential hazards along your ride. Situational awareness also comes from the sounds around you as well. I have a helmet with a visor to cut down on the glare. It also helps when riding at night where the glare from oncoming car headlights can temporarily blind you if not ready for the sudden change in illumination. Of course wrap around sunglasses with safety glass rating is a must. Oakleys are awesome for their industry standard polycarbonate lenses that don't shatter on impact. Polarized lenses are even better in controlling glare and also reduces the reflective glare from the road as well.

You don't need to spent thousands of dollars on a good bike. Once you get above a thousand bucks, the gains in features or components becomes an exercise in diminishing returns.

My Trek Valencia has a mountain bike type frame with thinner road tires for more efficiency. The tires have puncture resistant design which is a nice useful feature.

Some accessories I'd recommend for your bike is a flip out mirror for your handlebar so you don't have to strain your neck negotiating rush hour traffic. A headlight and tail light is also a smart accessory to have. Flashing ones are even better. Lightweight, brightly colored moisture-wicking clothing or at least removable reflective strips for your arms and legs work wonder for visibility. And of course a helmet.

Extras that are nice to have are trunk bags and handlebar bag for your goodies. Gloves and eye protections is also a good idea to have while riding.

So go dust off your bike and top off the tires with air and go tour your neighborhood from the seat of your two wheeled vehicle.