I still remember the time when I first rode this two wheeled vehicle and was able to do so without trainers or help from grown ups when I was 4. After riding it for a few minutes and getting to the end of the street, I realized that I was too happy driving but I haven't even learned how to stop. Oh yes! I fell off the bike and cried because people were chasing me down the street and didn't look back. It's where I learned I could do things by myself, the first taste of independence was addicting but I felt it was all worth it. I did something that none of my playmates would even imagine I could do. Back then, everybody was doing it for fun and I love the fact that it didn't even had to be filled up with gas which grown ups do. In my city, it was so fresh and breezy to go to parks, run around and drive proud with my two wheeled wonder. I wonder if it's the same for the kids now.
The other day, I got a glimpse of what the situation is commuting in public. Although it was fine to be in public vehicles that carry a lot of people from point A to point B, I could smell and see smoke coming out of the muffler and we have sardine can like MRT/LRT as options. Sad story, but I think there is still hope. I've seen a lot of guys take cycling seriously and doubly happy the Filipinos has been bitten by the bug to take environmentally great steps to be involved to love the worthwhile sport. Brands from around the world even take our young nation to be one of the best places to showcase their products, I'm glad they even took notice because it's an emerging market as we go greener, even more.
Aside from the opportunity of helping the environment, health-wise, it's the best thing that could ever happen to you if you pick up the habit. Doing a few kilometers would get a few calories burned, fat dissolved and kilograms lost in the mid section. It's benefits have been unquestioned by health and fitness professionals so why shouldn't we do it right? Some might be put off by the high prices but there are better options out there like Strida, Tern and Pacific who have foldable bikes that are affordable yet quality. These brands carry The Taiwan Excellence seal which was campaigned by Bureau of Foreign Trade of Taiwan (BOFT) and implemented by their very own Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA). It's Taiwan's mark of quality that guarantees the superior value of lifestyle brands all over Asia which now includes the Philippines. They even coined the term "innovalue" as they continue to produce products to stay ahead of the pack when it comes to manufacturing with the highest standards. They've got lots more where that came from and it's reassuring to get world class products undergo strict quality processes so you know you're getting what you paid for. You can get to the destination, help the environment and stay healthy. How can you beat that?
I'm going on a trail this weekend with some friends just for fun, you should too!
For more information about their organization:
Taiwan Excellence