Originally Posted by
caloso
Actually, you do have a money tree. Keep track of how much you are saving in fuel, maintenance, and parking fees. The initial investment might seem like a lot but You will save more than enough to offset it.
Well, I figured that at $2.50/gallon, the fuel costs of driving to work would run me about $115 per year. I easily spend more than that on my bike and related gear.
Before I started cycle commuting, I walked to work (did so for over 10 years). Cost of shoes (new pair every 6 months) easily exceeded fuel costs.
Yes, I know that I am excluding cost of vehicle maintenance, insurance, etc.; however since I use my truck for other purposes those are costs that are not affected by whether I commute by bike or drive.
My situation is based on having a short driving commute (less than 2 miles one way). I imagine that there is some distance beyond which I would spend more on fuel than on my bike needs. My bike commute is about 7 miles one way and chosen to avoid traffic (and get some exercise).