How do you measure a test drive's success or failure? Is it enough that you got to your destination or do aspects like usability and long term practicality also factor in? Well, I managed to get to work in about an hour and ten minutes (compared to Google maps projected ~40 minutes), which is not too bad considering how out of shape I am and that I took a few wrong turns and resting points along the way.
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| The final stretch of the drive start along this river, which isn't bad at all |
I was too tired to cycle back and I wanted to try the folding option on the bus, so I took a bus to Bergenfield and cycled the remaining mile and a half from there. I took two bus seats with the bike folded and it was quite awkward at times, but I got through. Some buses may have storage options as well.
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| The entrance to work - proof of concept? |
I am tired and my back is killing me- it was a little bumpy on some parts of the road and there was strain involved. I think I'll use the bike for its versatility and as a getaway option when the local transit system fails me in the afternoon. That means taking the bike on the bus in the morning and using it as contingency on the critical long stretch back. It is cumbersome and awkward, but what part of my life isn't anyway?
Wow, nice ride. An hour (I'm guessing you'll gain the 10 minutes in efficiency once you get going) is less than I thought it would take; doesn't it take you nearly that much anyway by bus? So from a time perspective, looks like you're good. It'll take some time to get into shape, but that too will come. Good luck!
ReplyDeleteI'm guessing you don't need a bike license in NJ, right?
I don't think you need a license. The plan is to use it to cut part of the wait time - carry it on the bus till a particularly long wait and then take off. Not sure how practical it is, but I might get in shape for the first time in my life.
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