Many benefits to riding a bicycle

To the editor:

Regarding the June 30 letter 'Some bicyclists do not obey the rules”:

Please accept my apology on behalf of cyclists who do not follow the traffic laws. We are subject to the same traffic laws as motorists, and just as motorists, we are compelled to ride defensively to protect our space on the streets and roadways.

Thankfully, I am noticing more and more drivers taking notice to the increase in bicyclists in the Cedar Valley be it for recreation or transportation and giving us the same respect as any other vehicle on the road.

Look at cycling from this perspective: many of us are out there not only to save our health, but also to save money so we can enjoy other things. During the warm months I save a ton of money riding the 4 miles to and from work, often up to five days a week. In addition, I'm get in great shape from riding.

Yet individuals want to 'tax” us. I pay property taxes in this county. These taxes not only go toward our public schools, but also toward the streets. In addition, I run a lot of errands on my bicycle in which I often have to pay sales taxes for my purchases. I own two vehicles, I pay the newly levied 10 cent tax on every gallon of gas I put in them.

Riding my bicycle is another way to offset the costs of living in this community and a means for a healthier lifestyle.

David Olsen

Marion