Generally I have an opinion on something and will share it, invited to or not, but today I am confused. The source of my confusion is the practice of cycling in Vancouver. I must say first, I am not questioning mountain biking or biking as a sport. The issue in question is biking as a means of transportation in and around Vancouver’s downtown core.

The cons are evident immediately. Flat, helmet hair is comparable to runners with jeans- not cool. Arriving somewhere sweating- also not that cool. Panting up ‘hills’ while people in cars gawk- not cool unless it’s a jeep full of hotties into active chicks. Getting dolled up to go out somewhere and then biking there ensures what you saw in the mirror at home is now gone- and you’re hideous- red faced, sweaty and with helmet hair.

The pros aren’t hard to find either. There’s no arguing you’re getting there faster than if you walk. You never pay for parking. You can do it drunk. It is environmentally friendly. You’re getting exercise, aka keeping your buns in shape. You never need god dam exact change for the bus (I’ll rant on this later).

I once bought a bike when I was living in Sydney. It cost me about $150 and I rode it three times and gave it away. I just never felt I could pull it off. And I lived at the top of a hill. End of story.

What do you think? Should I embrace biking or stay true to slow and steady walking and the occasional irritating bus ride? Is helmet hair worth it or is ditching the helmet worth the potential fine? What is the most stylish/ sensible/ cost effective/ efficient mode of transportation (besides an SUV) in Vancouver?