Aside from the cost of a bike, helmet, and / or walking shoes, bicycling and walking are relatively inexpensive activities to start and maintain.

A $750 bicycle, ridden 3,500 miles annually, requires about $100 annual maintenance and lasts 10 years, an average cost of $0.05/mile cycled (In Littman’s Quantifying the Benefits of Nonmotorized Transportation, 2011).

Bicycle Benefits

By becoming a Bicycle Benefits member, you can receive discounts at select locations in Keene including Prime Roast Coffee Makers, Brewbaker’s Cafe, Armadillo’s Antioch Bookstore, Creative Encounters, Pocketful of Rye, Life is Sweet, Computer Solutions, and Hannah Grimes Marketplace.

Free Helmets!

Some towns issue bicycle helmets to individuals who cannot afford to purchase one. Check with you local police department about this possibility.

Tax Benefits!

As of January 1, 2009, employers may reimburse employees up to $20 per month, tax free, for “reasonable” expenses related to their bike commute, including equipment purchases, bike purchases, repairs, and storage if the bicycle is used as a “substantial part” of the commuter’s trip to work for the month. For more info:click here

Health Benefits!

Walking and bicycling can also help individuals save on gym or health care memberships, which can cost hundreds of dollars. Increased physical activity can also improve health and potentially reduce medical / health care costs.