There's a ton of reasons cited for riding a bike, however, none are more important than the one that motivated you to spin your wheels.
From the first time you found your balance on two wheels to riding like a pro, no matter what inspired you, memories were created for a lifetime.
My first bike was a big old bulky hunk of metal with two big fat tires; needless to say, it had been used extensively or perhaps neglected may be a better way to describe it.
It needed a lot of work and a little TLC and at that point in my life I was just the one to give it.
I stripped it down, did a little sanding, and eventually spray painted it a metallic Mid-Night Blue.
It was never a pretty bike, but it was my gateway to freedom and expanding my horizons at a very early age.
Now, 50 years later, I find riding a bike and feeling the continual breeze in my face a most exhilarating experience.
There are many benefits of riding a bike at my age, at any age for that matter, and I'd like to share a few of my favorites with you.
First and foremost, I really like the fact that I can ride anytime I want, with whomever I want, if I desire to ride with anyone at all.
Yes, it's something I can do solo, all by myself if I choose, or with a friend or even a large group of cyclist buddies, whatever that particular day has in store.
I appreciate the flexibility and all the possible variations that come in to play on any given day.
Another great reason for riding a bike is the convenience it provides.
When was the last time you took a quick trip to the store and found the parking lot full and had to wait an extended period of time for a parking space? With a bike, you never have to wait; you can ride right up to the door and park your ride.
For convenience you could attach a cycling basket to your bike making it easy to transport your groceries and other items back to your home.
It's not only convenient, think of what you'll save in time and the cost of fuel.
Next we need to recognize that every time you ride your bike it's a benefit to those around you.
Your whole community wins when you get out and ride.
There's less noise, less congestion, less pollution.
You become a real contributor to making our world a little better place to live.
Be part of this cycling revolution that is sweeping across the world, receiving your own personal benefits of riding on a regular basis.
Furthermore, with the price of gas going through the roof, it's a no brainer; you'll be able to give your pocketbook some needed relief.
I've never done the calculations, but just riding back and forth to work will save you plenty, maybe even enough to get you a really nice bike in the very near future.
What more motivation do you need? Last but not least, one of the main reasons for riding a bike is all the unforeseen health benefits one receives.
I can't tell you all the healthy aspects that are derived from peddling yourself one place to another but they are numerous: you can have better lungs, a stronger heart, and a clearer mind.
On a personal note, riding regularly over a period of time has transformed my constantly throbbing knees to feeling better than they have in years.
I can't explain why, but I know it's related to the consistent spinning of those wheels.
A couple of doctor friends of mine walk or ride a bike to and from work every day.
They are both relatively slim in stature and seem to be very healthy.
As doctors who treat patient maladies all day long, they must recognize the value of walking or riding on a regular basis.
The few reasons mentioned above as to why we should ride bikes doesn't scratch the surface of the many hidden benefits of such a fun activity.
Everyone that rides has their own reason and quite frankly it doesn't really matter what it is as long as they're doing it.
It takes a little effort and a little bit of time, but the unseen rewards are more than worth it.
It's something anyone can do, so get up off the couch, turn off the TV, and get started today discovering a new world and a new you.