I like to ride because I get to spend more time out-and-about with my wife. Good times are assured when we’re out on our bikes together. I also find that I like who I am the most, when I’m on my bike.

—Phil Nuttall

I’m new to bike commuting. Why did I wait so long?

Last Summer I reluctantly agreed to house-sit for my In-laws. I would be away from the comforts of our own home but I strapped my bike on my roof-rack for insurance. I mapped out a bike route to work. So exhilarating and freeing!

Since returning to our home, I now commute 14 miles daily. It’s been only a little bit of work and a lot of fun getting up to this distance.

As Tolstoy said: “Everyone thinks of changing the world, but no one thinks of changing himself.”

My love of bikes and bike-riding has awakened the adventurer and nature lover in me. I really enjoy discovering new things to do on bikes with our family.

Towing our kids while they skimboard along the beach is just the latest.

—Stuart Gimber

The energy and emotion expressed in this photograph is why I ride. I have quickly learned that the bike can be an agent of change. This photograph was made during the surviors lap at the 24 Hours of Booty bike ride in Charlotte, NC. Standing on the sidelines, seeing all of the smiles and happy riders has to be one of the most emotional things I have experienced.

—Matt Parker

I enjoy riding my bike because it gets me away from everything and I can just enjoy riding and forget about all my worries.

—Linda Everson

Eight years ago something in my life changed.
I got on a bicycle for the first time since high school.
Now the humble bicycle is how I get around.
How I get to work.
How I go on holidays.
How I look after the planet.
This photo was on a unsupported bicycle tour of the Victorian(Australia) High country last year.
Awesome was the word to describe the view, the ride and the experience.

—Jeff Lock

Taken on a trail just outside of Davis, CA. I ride because there’s no better way to see new lands. You can cover great distances easily, and do it in serenity. And if you’re in a city, you can stop and park anywhere, which allows you to be really spontaneous when you travel.

—Thng Aaron

Part of the joy of cycling in New York City, and of writing about it, is connecting with others who love to ride and hearing their stories. I recently struck up a conversation with Stephanie, a student and bicycle messenger, when I noticed her vintage Raleigh parked inside the shop where she works. As a tribute to her dad, a first responder on 9/11, Stephanie painted her bike fire-engine red and affixed his helmet and engine company numbers to the frame. I like the strength and individual style reflected in this photo, which we shot in front of a Greenwich Village fire house for an upcoming post.

—Susi Wunsch
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