There is nothing (literally nothing) that could make us want to bike to work like the prospect of looking this chic on our wheels. While we’ll leave biking in a maxi dress to the Europeans (aka the pros) our commuting capsule has got us inspired to saddle up. Looks a side, we asked University Village educator, April, to share five reasons she likes to ride her bicycle as much as Queen does.

5 reasons to commute on your bike

1. it’s a beautiful day in the neighbourhood
Goodbye gridlocked traffic, annoying radio commercials and the occasional onset of road rage. Trade in your drive for a bike ride and you just might see what Mr. Rogers was talking about. On my bike, I’m much more connected to my community. My senses are all heightened during my commutes and I’m always making mental lists of the restaurants and shops I must visit on my next outing. There’s truly no better way to discover a new coffee shop than by getting a caffeinated whiff when I whiz by.

2. get your bike to do the heavy lifting
There’s no doubt about it, carrying your stuff sucks (aside from the impromptu arm workout). Whether it’s your work stuff, gym gear or groceries, carrying the load by hand isn’t fun. Schlep no more – from cute bike baskets to commuter lunch boxes to bike bags, there’s tons of crafty ways to let your bike carry the weight. Heck, there’s even a way to get that six-pack home in style. *Disclaimer: please don’t drink and ride.

3. it’s good for the environment
Being a Seattleite (not to be confused with satellite), I like to think of my city as environmentally conscious with bike friendliness at the top of the list. More and more cities are implementing bikes lanes and bike sharing programs making biking a breeze. Think of all the carbon emissions we could save when calories are our fuel of choice.

4. it’s good for your wallet
Gas, car insurance, transit passes, parking. Need I say more?

5. log a little extra sweat for the day
Riding my bike to commute means no gym membership for this girl. What could be better than getting your sweat on while getting to work? I spend 70 minutes riding round trip and my workout is done for the day. I always feel so energized when I arrive at my destination and I never regret my choice to bike.

Why do you love to ride?