Originally Posted by
Emperor Ryker
I'm sorry, but it's ridiculous to say biking is less expensive than running and that it's dependent on the individual. There is absolutely no need to buy shoes 6 times a year, and that's comparable to someone that buys the most expensive bike, changes tires all the time, has the most expensive equipment etc. And the latter will run you more than 6 pairs of shoes all day every day. The ipod thing is also ludicrous, you can't just lump it into running costs. That's like saying I stop for a $500 meal in the middle of my bike ride, so I'm just gonna say that's part of my biking costs. For every outrageously expensive running scenario you create, the equivalent biking scenario is 10 times as expensive.
Also, it's not just about the costs of biking over time, it's also about entry costs. You only need running shoes and no special clothing to pick up running. That's $100 if you don't get the crappiest shoes. If you want to cycle and don't get the crappiest bike, that's, say, $500, not counting the helmet or other accessories kind of crucial to being able to go on a longer ride.
Im guessing that you are not a runner. Your mileage will dictate how frequently you need new shoes. Shoes break down. If you want to stay healthy you better change them out. I don't know a single doctor that will tell you otherwise. Despite what you think, it's not comparable to a person buying the most expensive equipment. If I only use my iPod wile running, it is running equipment. Have you ever run a marathon in a cotton tshirt? Or cotton socks? Running, like biking requires certain clothes to make it more enjoyable. I can bike without cycling shorts, but why? The same goes for running clothes. Tell me how much your shirt, socks and underwear weigh after an hour or more of running. How are those cheap shoes going to feel when loaded with sweat from the cotton socks? It is all expensive but usually only as expensive as you want it to be. I don't use a gps on the bike. It's just a simple cyclometer for me. I could just buy a cheap watch and get the same info though.
I say this as somebody who is serious about both sports. If you don't run competitively than you simply don't understand the costs.