We have received a media release that is a bit of a business plug, but as we would really like to see what Commonwealth Avenue would look like over-run with office workers commuting to the Parliamentary triangle on an electric bike – we had to share it.
Canberrans urged to ‘commute in a suit’ with e-bikes a better option than paid parking in the Parliamentary Triangle
Local Canberra business, Switched on Cycles, is urging Canberrans to consider a ‘commute in a suit’- riding an electric bike to and from work – as an alternative to paid parking which is to be introduced in the Parliamentary Triangle in the next few months.
“Canberrans can avoid the new parking fees and save money by riding an electric bike, or e-bike, to work. Our e-bikes provide a very cheap transport alternative to cars in Canberra,” said Simone Annis, from Switched on Cycles.
The National Capital Authority recently revealed that paid parking will be introduced in the Parliamentary Triangle at the rate of $11 per day from around the beginning of September. This will have an impact on all car commuters working within the area as about 9,000 car spaces in Acton, Russell, Barton and Parkes will be affected.
“In Australia the majority of people have a commute of less than 10 kilometres one way, a journey quite appropriate for a bike commute. And we already know that Canberra is fabulous for bike riding. With relatively flat terrain, great bike infrastructure and small travelling distances, it makes sense to start thinking of the bikes in terms of transport, not just recreation. An e-bike also takes the work out of longer rides and hilly terrain making longer commutes also possible.
“By purchasing an e-bike, commuters have a low cost journey to work as they’re very cheap to run. They cost around 10 cents per charge with a range of up to 90 kilometres. And with the average e-bike costing $1800, the bike will have paid for itself in just eight months of commuting daily,” Simone continued.
Other benefits of the e-bikes include the fact that there are no fuel costs, less depreciation and wear and tear on your car, no registration and no insurance required. Not to mention the environmental impacts of less cars on the road.
“The bikes also make riding to work very achievable with no worry about having to have the fitness levels to climb hills, or needing a shower once you arrive at work. Riders can ride to work dressed in their best without raising a sweat,” Simone concluded.
Switched on Cycles have found that most people are keen to experience an e-bike before wanting to buy one, which they can do privately by booking a test ride, or at one of several upcoming demo days. There are four more demo days being held in the Parliamentary Triangle prior to the new paid parking arrangements coming into effect.
(Media release Switched on Cycles)
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