Reasons to Commute




Two Wheels, One Voice.

Why Should Your Employees Bike to Work?

Reduced Health Care Costs

According to the Centers for Disease Control, moderate physical activity (like biking to work) saves 5 to 12 percent in annual medical costs, compared with 6.5 percent savings from the employees who don't smoke. A General Electric's Aircraft engine unit's fitness program saves an estimated $540,000 annually, including 760 fewer hospital days per year.

Decreased Absenteeism & Turnover

A study by the National Center for Health statistics found that physical activity is one of the few factors that have statistically significant effects on absenteeism. Physically fit employees are absent an average of two fewer days per year.

Increased Productivity

Bicyclists and walkers arrive at work with less stress than those who commute by automobile. The Berkeley Wellness Letter reports that "chronic exposure to traffic congestion produces an increase in base-line blood pressure, lowering of frustration tolerance, increases in negative mood, and aggressive driving habits." In contrast, bicyclists and walkers often report feeling relaxed and more alert after arriving at work, ready for more productive day.

Reduced Parking Costs

Its not unusual for employers to spend over $50 per employee per month for a parking spot. At over $600 per year per employee, considerable savings can be achieved by getting employees to use alternative means of getting to work. the table below illustrates the potential savings.

Auto parking for 12 employees

Bike Parking for 12 employees

Initial cost of 12 parking spaces

$30,000 - $60,000

Cost of 12 lockers ($4,800) and
one auto space ($2,500-$5,000)

$7,300 - $9,800

Initial savings for Bicycle Lockers: $22,000 - 50,000

Average yearly cost for maintenance and taxed for 12 parking:

$6,000

Marketing, incentives and bike commuter programs cost per year:

Maintenance and taxes for one parking space per year for one set of bike lockers:

$1,200

$500

Total: $1,700

Average yearly savings for Bicycle Lockers: $4,300

By placing bicycle lockers in areas not usable for parking or office space, the savings can be increased. Also, racks (instead of lockers) will result in even larger savings.

Additional Topics:

Why Commute by Bike?	Commuter Gear Basics	Commuter Network
How to Commute by Bike	Commuting and Health	Bikes on Buses
Overcoming Excuses	Clothing Materials	Employers
Reasons to Commute	Mechanic's tips	Links

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