It has come to our attention that gas prices are once again doing that thing where they rise majestically, like a soufflé, except instead of delighting dinner guests they inspire quiet existential dread at the pump.
You approach the gas station with optimism. You leave having financed approximately one (1) gallon and a vague sense that perhaps you should have pursued a career in petroleum geology.
But what if—stay with me—you simply… did not?
What if, instead of pouring your hard-earned dollars into a machine that converts fossil fuels into traffic, you climbed aboard a device powered by your own legs, which—last we checked—have not yet been subject to global price fluctuations?
Yes. Because it is Bike Month and Bike to Work Day is just around the corner, we are talking about the bicycle.
The Bicycle: Suspiciously Affordable
A bicycle does not require:
- A second mortgage
- A tense relationship with a gas pump
- A moment of silence while the total climbs past what you emotionally prepared for
Instead, it asks only that you pedal. At a steady, dignified pace. Like a person who has opted out of the entire gas-price discourse.
Side Effects May Include…
People who bike to work often report unusual side effects, including:
- Arriving at their destination awake
- Noticing trees, birds, and other previously theoretical objects
- A growing suspicion that short trips were always bikeable
- Mild to moderate feelings of smugness (manageable with humility and snacks)
Consult your local trail network if these symptoms persist.
But What About Convenience?
You may be thinking: “Surely driving is more convenient.”
And yes—if your definition of convenience includes:
- Sitting in traffic contemplating your life choices
- Searching for parking like a character in an epic quest
- Paying for fuel that appears to be priced by mood
Meanwhile, the humble bicycle glides past, unbothered, unencumbered, and occasionally ringing a cheerful bell.
A Modest Proposal
We are not suggesting you immediately replace every trip with a bike ride (though the bicycle would not object).
But perhaps:
- One short trip becomes a ride
- One commute becomes an experiment
- One errand becomes an excuse to enjoy the outdoors
And suddenly, you are participating in a quiet revolution—one that involves fresh air, lower costs, and fewer conversations with your gas tank.
Want some help getting started? Contact FABB at [email protected].
Fairfax County, But Make It Bikeable
Here in Fairfax County, we are working every day to make biking safer, easier, and more connected—for commuting, for errands, for life.
Because the more people who choose to ride, the more we can build a community where:
- Trails connect where they should
- Streets feel safer for everyone
- And “How much is gas now?” becomes a question you hear from… other people
Final Thought
Gas prices may rise and fall. Markets may fluctuate. But the bicycle remains—quietly, steadfastly, waiting in your garage or on your rack.
- Ready to save you money.
- Ready to improve your day.
- Ready to make you wonder why you didn’t do this sooner.
In this economy? The bicycle is looking like a very good deal.
