Brian Miller, a primary worker at the Fraser Valley Institution in Abbotsford, made the choice to trade in his truck for a bicycle over 18 months ago.
Miller is conscious about his health and his environmental impact. He has biked to work every shift, regardless of the weather conditions, since making the switch.
“I like the extra 119,000 calories I burn per year just getting to work – something I have to do anyway.”
Miller said biking to work has positive impacts in many areas of his life.
“I save $4,000 per year by not owning a second vehicle; I reduce my carbon footprint; and my cardio workout is free.”
When Miller heard of Bike to Work Week last year, he not only encouraged his co-workers to participate with him, he offered to ride with them to help them feel more comfortable cycling in traffic.
Miller advises those who cycle to wear a helmet and ensure they have a flashing light in the front and back of their bikes in case the sun sets during their commute.
He warns that drivers should acknowledge that it is legal for a cyclist to ride on the road, and illegal for cyclists to ride on the sidewalks.
“So, give cyclists space when you pass, and remember it is motorists’ responsibility to only pass when safe to do so,” he said.
Miller is encouraging residents to participate in Bike to Work Week (May 27 to June 2) across B.C.
On May 29, Ryan Walter, president of the Abbotsford Heat and former NHL player, and Harv Bergen, owner of LifeCycles, will lead a bike ride through Abbotsford, encouraging people to bike to work and school.
"I am always up for exercise and doing my part to improve the air quality in the Fraser Valley… oh yes, and to save a little money on gas, too," said Walter.
The bike ride will start at Abbotsford Sports and Entertainment Centre (AESC) at 7 a.m. and follow a route through the city that allows residents to join where it’s most convenient for them. The ride will stop and wait for people at The Keg at 7:15 a.m., Abbotsford Community Services at 7:25 a.m., Mill Lake Park (South Entrance) at 7:35 a.m., Peardonville and Beaver at 7:45 a.m., and at Celebration Station at Abbotsford Regional Hospital at 8 a.m. where participants can enjoy free snacks and get to know Ryan Walter. The ride will continue back to, and end at, the AESC.
Residents can veer off the route and bike to work or school as needed.
Participants are encouraged to try cycling to work at least one day during Bike to Work Week and register online at www.biketowork.ca for chances to win prizes. Registration is free.