America has long been a country that is focused on the automobile for transportation. They’ve been so influential, in fact, that states in the west have been developed around them. There’s just one small problem: they’re wreaking havoc on our planet thanks to greenhouse gas emissions.
Today, more people are leaving the car in the driveway and taking their bicycles to work instead. Unfortunately, riding a bike can be quite a challenge in busy cities. If you’re thinking of making the switch, read on for some of the most bike-friendly cities in the country!
- Portland, Oregon
Portland, Oregon is easily one of the most bike-friendly cities in this country. Located in the Pacific Northwest, Portland is home to a wide variety of people who use bikes and electric bikes as their primary mode of transportation.
Portland has cooler weather than most of the United States, but things can get a little dicey if you step out to ride your bike during one of the 163 days of precipitation they receive throughout the year. If you feel secure riding in the rain, then you should be good to go.
Currently, Portland has 385 miles of paved bikeways throughout the city, and nearly 100 more miles are in development. Shared roadways bear distinct markings, keeping you safe on your ride.
- Minneapolis, MN
Minneapolis might come as a surprise, given its propensity to accumulate snow in the winter months. In reality, Minneapolis has a strong bicycling community consisting of bost regular and electric bikes. Electric bikes run a little faster, and if you haven’t considered one, it’s worth it to check it out.
Minneapolis claims to have the best bicycle infrastructure in the country, and they’re dedicated to continuing on that journey. In 2014, Minneapolis had 226 miles of bike lanes, and more are coming every day. If a little cold doesn’t bother you, then Minneapolis might be calling your name.
- Washington, DC
Washington, DC is easily one of the most famous cities in the country. Here, bicyclists are at an advantage thanks to a great public transportation system and their dedication to things like bike shares, bike lanes. DC has the second-highest number of cyclist commuters in the country.
With that much demand for biking infrastructure, DC is staying on top of those demands and delivering, too. Expect to find lots of safe bike lanes. Much more is planned for the future, soo it’s definitely worth checking out DC if you want to prioritize riding your bike to work.
Planning a Move to One of These Bike-Friendly Cities?
If you’re sick and tired of dealing with hostile motorists and worrying about getting hit by a car, then moving to one of these bike-friendly cities can be a huge quality of life improvement. Not only will you be safer on the road, but you’ll be surrounded by tons of like-minded people while you’re riding. Pretty impressive, right?
Are you interested in learning more about how you can make a positive impact on the world and improve your life? You’ve come to the right place. Be sure to peruse the rest of our blog for tons of fresh content!
