Transportation uber-geek Todd Litman looked at studies of people's satisfaction with their commutes (PDF). The results: transit isn't all that popular, compared with a car commute:
The leftmost bar represents a car-only commute; you can see that it gets higher satisfaction ratings (the green part) and lower dissatisfaction (the orange) than both transit and car+transit commutes, which are the next two bars. (Despite the popularity of park-and-rides, there are lots of yucky orange feelings towards a mixed commute.)
But, wait! If you dive into the numbers, it turns out there's another side to this story. As it turns out, people don't have an inherent preference for cars, or an innate dislike of buses or trains. The real story is that people don't particularly like spending time in vehicles, period.
You see, the average bus or train commute takes longer than the average car commute. And once you control for travel time, including transfers, the preference for cars over transit vanishes. Quoting Litman:
The greater dislike of commuting by transit travelers and large city residents can be explained by their longer average commute duration and increased need to transfer. After accounting for these factors the researcher found no statistically significant difference between transit and automobile commuters.
So, taking time out of the equation, people who get to work in a vehicle mostly want to get there as quickly and pleasantly as possible. Other than that, there's little inherent preference for a car. Corroborating that, Litman cites a recent study of New Jersey commuters in which train users reported that they were happier with their commutes than drivers; apparently, in New Jersey, traffic is bad enough that transit commuting is far more pleasant and predictable than driving.
But according to the research Litman cites (and the chart above), the happiest of all commuters get to work under their own power. Bikers express the highest levels of satisfaction, and least dissatisfaction, with their morning and afternoon treks. Walkers are close behind. I'm not sure if that's because walkers and bikers tend to have shorter commutes, or because they tend to have pleasant or stress-free routes (otherwise, they'd choose another way to get to work). Either way, it seems like a good way to make people happier with their commute is -- if possible -- to give them a safe and quick way to get to work under their own power.
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Comments View as Flat
Tom Twigg Posted 7:57 am
08 May 2007
I Hate My Mixed Commute ...
but I would hate it SO MUCH more if it were all in a car.
I drive a few miles to a park-n-ride, catch a bus for a 20 mile trip to transfer again to a ferry, then walk a few blocks once across the water to work. Travel time? Approximately 1 1/2 hours each way. Does that suck? Yes. The best parts tend to be the walk, and the ferry ride when the weather is decent and I can enjoy some fresh air and the occasional sunshine on the top deck.
Once on the bus and ferry I can do other things that save me from feeling I am completely wasting 3 hours of my day. For a year there was free WiFi on the ferry and I could actually start work earlier and be productive.
But the thing that wasn't mentioned in this post is the non-commute commute ... what about telecommuting? Talk about something that could make people happy, more productive (and least in the sense of no time wasted in travel) AND energy wise.
If a twigg falls in the forest but nobody is there to hear it, it's probably best because there is bound to be cussing.
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Dan O Posted 9:36 am
08 May 2007
Bike commuting rocks - really.
I've bike commuted on and off for over 20 years, the last 4 years or so - quite a bit. I commute 17 miles one way from Kenmore to downtown Seattle. 34 miles a day, 3 - 5 days per week. I do slack off some during the winter - then crank it up the rest of the year. On a yearly basis, I now ride more then drive - to work anyway.
To some, probably sounds like a big deal - it's not. It takes me about an hour each way, not much longer then driving. Driving on a normal traffic day takes 35 - 45 minutes, some days an hour. Plus pay to park, fuel, and pollution - you know the story. After bike commuting for awhile, sitting in traffic seems even more tortuous then usual.
I'm lucky since about 90% of my current bike commute is on the Burke-Gilman trail. The BG is a well used regional trail that allows off street riding. I'm convinced if more trails like this existed, more people would commute by bike. The side of road "painted bike paths" are still better then nothing, since they do remind motorists that bikes exist. However, the off-street bike paths are much more inviting and nicer to use.
You don't need to be a hard core rider with an expensive bike and racer clothes to commute - although I'm guilty on all those counts. If you live within 10 miles of work, pick out the quietest route possible and give it a shot. Use the bike you currently own, or pick up something used. Carry your stuff in a messenger bag or backpack. No need to go crazy with equipment, experiment to see what works best for you. No need to be a hero and ride everyday. Try a few days a week and mix up with using other forms of transportation - rack on bus, drive in and ride home, etc.
I've mentored a few people on commuting, met them to ride in or home - and get a huge kick seeing the grin on their face - "Wow, I rode all the way to work!" A few continued to ride, other have not. It isn't for everybody, but if it clicks for you - is a killer solution to a lot of issues.
There are a few stumbling blocks to get more people riding in U.S. We need more bike paths and general awareness that bikes can be transportation - instead of toys or sport gear to lie next to the BBQ grill and skis. Another is the "uniform" of the "serious cyclist" - to look a racer. This puts many people off and is not necessary.
I find many people are interested in the idea of commuting. An example is the Commuter Challenge run by the Cascade bike club here in Seattle. Runs the month of May and puts people and companies together in a friendly competition for most commuting miles and round trips. About 600 teams and 6000 people sign up for this - not too bad for just the Seattle area. I usually recruit a few teams for my company and can see the increase of people riding during the month. A cool sight indeed and perhaps a glimpse into the future.
Try it. It's all good. Trust me.
More info on the commute challenge: www.cascade.org
Two bike companies geared towards commuting: www.breezerbikes.com www.rivbike.com
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WWAGD?! Posted 10:35 am
08 May 2007
My Argument Against Mass Transit
This is been my argument against mass transit for some time.
When people are sold on "mass transit", for example, the way the politicians have been foisting Light Rail and the doomed Mon-o-rail on Seattle, they have in their mind of walking to a station, a few feet from their doorstep, and being whisked to work, in minutes, again, landing a few hundred feet from their office.
The sad truth is that 99 percent of a "mass transit" commute is waiting, or walking to and from bus/train stops. Even in the subway of New York, a dense system, one often has to walk lengthy blocks between stations (like changing from the F to the E near 34th).
I have proposed that the real solution would be highly optimized taxis...whose routes are planned using real time computing. If we can merely turn 3 car trips into 1, without the forced regularity of "car pooling", but with the dynamism of point to point, instant pickup, instant delivery taxis (juggling 3 distinct, but near parallel trips), we'd have the best of all worlds.
I'm sorry, but walking, biking -- you shouldn't even include those in a serious discussion of people moving for business and grown up activities.
John Bailo, The "Denier Guy"
You Read It Here First
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GreyFlcn Posted 1:38 pm
08 May 2007
Well, not biking
But relevant,
I thought this idea was rather cute:
http://www.treehugger.com/files/2007/04/walking_buses_p.p ...
Walking Buses :P
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Biodiversivist Posted 3:27 pm
08 May 2007
Duh!
"So, taking time out of the equation, people who get to work in a vehicle mostly want to get there as quickly and pleasantly as possible. Other than that, there's little inherent preference for a car."
I am experiencing technical difficulties with my new electric bike upgrade. Seems like parts distributors are having a hard time keeping up with demand. That's a good sign.
In the end, it all comes down to biodiversity. Poison Darts--Protecting the biodiversity of our world
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GtoeOne Posted 2:16 am
09 May 2007
Problems with biking
When I was young and living in the south I used to bike to work each day, and it was enjoyable for me. I was strong enough that I could arrive without a sweat in the morning.
Now I am older and I look on biking as a real challenge. If I am riding a bike how do I stop by the grocery store to pick up some milk and whatever is for dinner tonight? How do I stop by daycare to pick up the three-year old? How do I get to the business lunch meeting? I now live in the north and winters are difficult in the car. Our lives are so busy and we have to move so fast just to keep the family fed that I have no time for the bike commute any more.
Maybe after the kids go off to college.
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Biodiversivist Posted 2:27 am
09 May 2007
I hear you, GtoeOne
I gave up biking for several years when the kids were young. I had a long commute to my job and time was short. If I had a shorter commute things may have been different. Also, if electric hybrid bikes had been around, that might have made a difference. My kids are older now, I don't have a commute, and hooking a bike trailer to the back of a hybrid electric actually saves me time here in Seattle. My bike is faster than a car for trips within a five mile radius and hauling six bags of groceries is a piece of cake.
Cold climes and suburban living make biking much less tenable. That is one big reason I chose to live in a big city where there is a moderate climate.
In the end, it all comes down to biodiversity. Poison Darts--Protecting the biodiversity of our world
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denverbiker Posted 4:36 am
09 May 2007
Cycling is the best way...
I've lived in major cities, and have commuted by bike, car, rail, bus, etc. my whole life and biking is the hands-down winner. I arrive at work with enthusiasm, and arrive home tired and happy.
Even though my commute is 30 minutes by car and an hour by bike, I consider it saving time because I don't have to go home, then get on my bike or go to the gym for my workout. I'm done already !
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eriqa Posted 5:01 am
09 May 2007
if you build it...
"I'm sorry, but walking, biking -- you shouldn't even include those in a serious discussion of people moving for business and grown up activities."
For someone who's such a devotee of the Grist blogs, Mr. Bailo, it's surprising that you missed the recent WSJ article on biking in Europe. If you build the infrastructure, turns out bikes work brilliantly "for business and grown up activities" in urban areas. It's true that, since we have a sadly inadequate bike infrastructure in this country, it is currently impractical for most people. But there's no reason that can't change.
FWIW, I bike 10 miles every day from a suburb to the city to work at a large financial institution that epitomizes "business and grown up activities" in many people's minds. A quick shower and changing into dress clothes takes 10 minutes at the small onsite fitness center (that infrastructure again). I love my exercise routine - er, commute. There are some inconveniences, but compared to the frustration of sitting in traffic or doing the bus-to-train-to-walking multi-mode tango (both of which are only a few minutes faster than my ride), there's no contest.
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JoeyDiana Posted 5:54 am
09 May 2007
Well put
I have lived in France and Sweden in areas where the infrastructure is definitely more geared towards mixed use transportation. People of all ages biked to school, work, play on amazingly well maintained and lit bike/walking paths.
(one of my first culture difference awakenings was seeing women bicycling in dresses and high heels and then joining the ranks) Those wacky Swedes ;).
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Dan O Posted 4:33 pm
09 May 2007
Biking - try it.....
Interesting comments - a few responses from me - Bike Dork and commuter:
I'm lucky - I live in a moderate climate, fairly progressive city - Seattle - where quite a few people ride.
My place of employment provides a secure bike room, showers, and an emergency drive home program. After 4 years, I've never used the work shower or ride home program - never needed it.
People who don't ride think you arrive at work a sweaty mess. Of course, everyone is different, but it's not the big problem people expect it to be. I shower right out of bed, then ride in. Sounds nutty, but works for me. Other people I know, shower after they arrive at work. Whatever works for you.
I do ride in bike clothes, then change at work. I work in a "business casual" enviornment. I keep a few pair of pants, shoes and other items at work. I carry a fresh shirt, underwear, socks, lunch, cell phone, reading material - and assorted other crap in a large bicycle messenger bag.
I change clothes in my cubicle at work - loopy, eh? Takes about 3 minutes and have yet to be caught with my pants down. Not recommended for everyone, but saves the hassle of changing the in bathroom or shower area.
As far as being "too old" to bike commute - guess that's a state of mind and current physical condition. I'm closing in on 46 years old, so not exactly a kid anymore. I know people in their 50s and 60s who bike commute also.
Picking up groceries and other items is possible. Bags and baskets for the bike are available. Backpacks and messenger bags work also. Bike trailers can also hold an amazing amount of stuff - including kids. My 3 year old daughter loves riding in the trailer.
As mentioned, bike commuting can actually save time - since it can replace other forms of excercise. There's a gym located in my work buidling. I can't help but laugh at the row of cars heading into the parking garage at 5:00 PM - people hitting the gym on the way home - as I'm beginning my ride home.
When I arrive at work - I feel great. The mental and physical benefits of getting two rounds of excercise per day can't be beat. Then add in the money and potential time savings - plus the good it does for the planet - can see why dedicated bike commuters come across as zealots.
Still, it's not for everyone. If you don't like the outdoors, just flat out hate excercise, have the "Highway to Hell" commute route, kids to pick up, etc. - it may not work. I think for many people though, it could work if you gave it a shot.
Even bumping up the amount of people bike commuting just a few percent - would make a difference - no?
Gabba Gabba Hey
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Biodiversivist Posted 1:41 am
10 May 2007
Exercise on the way to or from work is not
for everyone (myself included), although it is obviously a major incentive for others. For those who don't want to combine their commute with a rigorous exercise program or who don't want to have to change clothes, consider an electric hybrid. You will keep up with the racers and still get to work without a sweat, although, not without effort. And anytime you decide you want a workout, just lay off the throttle or pedal like hell. A hybrid gives you more options.
In the end, it all comes down to biodiversity. Poison Darts--Protecting the biodiversity of our world
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Dan O Posted 3:47 am
10 May 2007
Electric bikes are an option
I agree - electric bikes are a great option for people with little or no interest in the physical aspect of getting around by bike.
You won't however, keep up with the "racers". A real racer I'm not, but have cruised past a few hybrid bikes in the past. They seem pretty slow overall.
A fairly fit cyclist can average 15 - 20 MPH for a few hours. You're not going touch that with a hybrid. Plus, I get to work on a bowl of Cheerios and a banana. :)
Still - I'm all for the hybrid option. Not for me, but can see the benefit for others. This discussion has gotten me interested in doing a little research on electric bikes. Speed, range, cost, etc.
Thanks.
Gabba Gabba Hey
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Montanaebiker Posted 4:33 am
10 May 2007
newer hybrids are faster and go longer
Just like all technology, hybrid bikes are able to travel farther on a charge and go faster now...for less $. My electric kit was $500, my husband installed it on a $5 yard sale mountain bike, and it will take me a little over 20 miles on a charge, at 25 mph the whole time - except up steep hills! I've passed quite a few road bikers, not the real "pros" that ride around here, but good riders! I don't have to do much if I don't want to - if I'm feeling really tired that day or something. But a lot of days I'll pedal for a good ways to get a good workout - keeps me in shape for REAL mountain biking - without having to go to the gym! So I enjoy the physical aspects of bike riding, just not ALWAYS on my way to work.
As far as groceries, and carrying stuff around, my husband and I both have a great set of collapsible metal racks - they hang on either side of your back tire, and fold up flat alongside the bike when not in use. You can easily carry a very full grocery sack in each one - and the racks are only around $30.
If you're looking into electric bike kits, make sure you understand the difference between brushed hubs and brush-less hubs. Wildernessenergy.com has a good lay-person description of the way a brushed motor works - the brushed motors do require more maintenance - replacing brushes and bearings - but it's my understanding that they'll last a lot longer.
You also want to make sure, like they state on the wilderness energy page, that you always recharge your bike immediately after using it. The lead acid batteries that come with their kits ( 3 - 12 volt in series) will have issues if you don't recharge immediately. The chargers are small enough to carry with you on the bke, so if you've got a 20 mile commute one way to work, you can take them along and charge while at work. We don't really notice that big of a difference on our electric bill either, and we have two of them plugged in all the time at home, except when we're riding them.
BTW, we had a brush-less kit first, and had some issues with it. We're a lot happier with the brushed kits.
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Biodiversivist Posted 12:14 am
12 May 2007
However, Dan O
Put a fit cyclist on a hybrid and now what? It's like racing two fit cyclists on a tandem.
In the end, it all comes down to biodiversity. Poison Darts--Protecting the biodiversity of our world
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amazingdrx Posted 1:12 am
12 May 2007
Safety and utility
I think it's safer when biking in traffic to go as fast as the traffic. And it's more useful for commuting when it takes less time to get to work. That's why even fit bikers could use a little electric help for commuting.
But will it turn out to be more dangerous because of the higher speeds?
Here's another option. Enclosed bikes that provide crash protection and all weather commuting. But when do these vehicles become motorcycles with pedals? That is not a good option either.
How about the equivalent of a stationary bike inside a two wheeled electric vehicle? The pedals add energy to the drivetrain. But that deletes the feeling of actually cycling.
It's a fascinating design problem. And largely devoid of regulation, unlike 4 wheeled vehicles. To develop a new kind of 4 wheeler you need the lobbying and financial might of a major auto company.
http://amazngdrx.blogharbor.com/blog
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Dan O Posted 9:34 am
17 May 2007
Fit cyclists on hybrids?
In general, you won't find "fit" cyclists riding hybrids. For someone really into cycling itself, hybrids defeat the whole purpose of riding - the great feeling of moving under your own power.
There's also a cycling culture and social aspect that hybrids will never fit into.
Like I mentioned earlier though, I think hybrids are awesome for the folks who just want to get from point A to point B without (or minimize) the physical aspect. It's a cool and valid concept.
As far as enclosing a two wheeler for protection - an interesting idea, but one that will be a turn off for most two wheeled fans. As a bicyclist and (ex?) motorcyclist, the "protection" is the agility of two wheels and the abiliy to scan ahead and react. That's part of the fun.
Gabba Gabba Hey
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