Winter Rider Highlights
How many trips have you taken since December 1?
“60 trips. Knowing that I’ve used the CoGo over 60 times in the last 3 months definitely solidifies that I’m getting my money’s worth!” –SP
“68 trips. Winter hasn’t completely knocked the biker out of me…but looking forward to spring.” –Steve
89 trips. –Kevin
Biking in the winter seems a little challenging. Why do you do it?
“Using the CoGo bikes is my main form of transportation to get to work during the week. The parking garages near my workplace don’t have any space available so biking is the most cost effective way for me to get to work!” – SP
“With temperatures below freezing riding a bike gets me to work much faster than walking. Plus with all of the ‘spring’ days we’ve had this winter it gives me a chance to get out on a brisk ride when the weather allows.” –Steve
“To keep physically fit and cost savings for downtown Columbus parking for my full time job.” –Kevin
How has CoGo stood up to the winter? (Bike availability? Condition?)
“…there have been a plethora of bikes available. In terms of the condition of the bikes, apart from having to scrape snow and ice off of the seats and handlebars, they’ve been in great shape.” –SP
“The stations seem to be in great shape and with fewer riders I can usually find a bike that is already adjusted to the height I need. “– Steve
“I’ve had zero problems!”–Kevin
Where have you biked? (Work? Leisure? Lunch/Dinner? Events?)
“Apart from using CoGo as my primary commuting device I’ve also used it to travel to Hockey games in the Arena District or gallery events and restaurants in the Short North.” –SP
“The new stations at OSU are extremely convenient. When I’ve had events up there it has been nice not having to worry or pay for parking.” -Steve
“Work. I park my vehicle away from the downtown area and then ride CoGo downtown to job.” –Kevin
Talk about your clothing. What do you wear to stay warm when you ride?
“I don’t wear excessive layers when I ride, especially when I’m riding to work. I would say during the winter months, the best things to have are a pair of gloves or mittens for your hands and a scarf to cover your face!” –SP
“Plenty of layers. Thermals in the mornings with a few extra sweaters or jackets. Easier to take off when I go into my overheated building. On those really chilly days I’ll wear a ski mask, but I try not to frighten people.” –Steve
“Heavy coat. Gloves & face shield – a MUST!” –Kevin
Do your friends or family think about your mode of transportation? Did anyone ride with you?
“I get texts on bad weather days with questions like, ‘You didn’t actually ride a bike to work today did you?’ and ‘How was your ride in? I was thinking about you when I was stuck in traffic with the snow!’” –SP
“I’ve had lots of people at work ask me about it and they think I’m crazy for riding in the winter. But then they tell me they walk just as far. I always tell them that if it isn’t snowing or raining a bike ride is much faster. I haven’t convinced anyone to ride with me yet, but I have a co-worker ask for more details. Hopefully I can convince him to do it.” –Steve
“Most friends think I’m “crazy” to face the cold days on a bike” –Kevin
We don’t see as many bikers in the winter, how does it feel when you see a fellow winter rider?
“Honestly, I just hope that they’re warmer than me!” –SP
“I like feeling that I’m not the only person outside crazy enough to be on a bike. I definitely feel justified when I see other people riding.” –Steve
“A nice confidence builder!” –Kevin
Do you have any tips for riding in the cold or snow?
“…be smart about your route to avoid unplowed sidewalks and streets or roads with lots of traffic.” –SP
“Always wear a helmet. If it has snowed recently I like to keep to the middle of the roads. Not as much snow and easier for cars to see me. But I usually take side streets on my trips. I’d never bike in the middle of the road down High Street. Brave the cold. You never know what you’ll see.” –Steve
“Be prepared to get a little messy in the salt/slush mixture.” –Kevin
Huge thank you to these riders for their love of CoGo and also sharing their experience with us!