Originally Posted by
baillieul
When I started bike commuting to work, I figured out that you really don't save money unless you drop a car. So to me , this is a huge step forward. The winter will be harder for sure. We don't live right down town, more like in a bedroom community that has most things within walking distance.
The cars/resident ratio is actually a pretty interesting number. I have a brother in law who is a solid 1.5. I like to bike to his place and see the disgust in his eyes.
The winter might be difficult, but you can make it easier if you develop a backup plan. If the streets are too snowy (or there's a -35F wind chill) I can always take the bus. This works out pretty well. I really look forward to getting in on bicycle, but the bus is a nice rest too.
The first winter it might seems a little daunting, but it does get easier.
It's just a matter of habit, though. You get used to a routine of traveling by bike and eventually it seems to be the most natural, reasonable way to go.