bicycle commuter profile-Laurie Chipman

I met Laurie about a year ago. I was immediately impressed with her passion for cycling and transportation alternatives. She is a strong carfree transportation advocate in the Kansas City area. She also is the chief organizer of the Brookside Ride on Thursday night. She is an extremely talented graphic designer and illustrator. She and her husband, Jeff Perry, not only commute by bike, but also are avid walkers and I think cross country skiers. They also take touring trips together.

Tell me a little bit about you (name, age, occupation, carfree or carlite, where you live).

"Laurie Chipman, 50s, graphic designer, illustrator, carlite, Midtown KC"

When did you start using a bicycle for commuting?

"About 2006"

What inspired you to start?

"I went to Chicago and saw the many cyclists and heard about Chicago's program to encourage bicycle use for trips up to 5 miles. It made sense to me. I also went to Holland in 2006 to partake in and observe a cycling nirvana. I decided that I want to live like that. I want to take my options to ride a bike, walk, use transit or drive."

What is a day in your bicycling life like?

"There is no typical day. Some days I do short commute rides for errands anywhere between Waldo and the Missouri River. Some days I do recreational rides between 16 miles up to 50 miles."

Do you recommend cycling to friends/family members/others? Have any taken you up on it?

"Yes, some people have tried it but I'm not that aware of any influence that I've had."

What kind of bike are you currently riding?

"Steel or aluminum bikes for touring, commuting, and fun."

In your opinion, what’s the best part about cycling?

"Seeing my environment at a slower pace, enjoying the outdoors, meeting people, having more interactions with my surroundings and the people in it, being self-propelled, being free from the constraints of cars, easy parking, getting exercise"

What’s the worst?

"Rude people and bad weather"

What are three pieces of advice you would give to someone starting/ considering commuting by bike?

"Get a bike that fits, learn your route or ride with someone else to help you, learn the rules of the road and your rights."

Anything else you would like to add?

"Riding is just as much fun as you remember it as a kid. Don't be afraid. Learn the skills. Most roads most of the time don't have much traffic—learn where they are. Have fun!"