Three common complaints of non-real people (people not yet in the workforce but not in primary school)
- I have no money.
- Gas is expensive.
- There's no parking on campus.
- I have no time to workout.
Easiest. Solution. Ever: Invest in a BIKE!
Ok, I'm a little biased, I love my bike Bessie:
But really, when you think about it, what better way to save money, get places faster and burn some calories? It's the ultimate multi-tasking money-saving solution!
Average cost of gas currently: $3.60/gallon.
If you drive a SMALL, fuel efficient car: $35 -$50 to fill up (more if you have a crappy or big car)
If you fill up every 2 weeks, cost of gas per month: $175-$250
Cost of a halfway decent bike (I recommend Cannondale or Fuji as mid-range): $200-$500
Bike lights: $5-$55
Helmet (A MUST): $30-$70
Commuter bags (optional, or just use a backpack): $30-$75
So all together, your bike will initially cost you between $300 and $700ish. Sounds like a lot. However, if you use it as a main transportation source, you can save $30/month on gym costs, $$175-$250/month on gas, and time getting to where you need to be. It's greener for the environment also...Bonus!
So per year, you are spending at least $2100 on gas. Not to mention any extraneous costs for maintenance, oil changes, etc. Let's say those cost a conservative $200/year, and, if your parents aren't supporting you, another $100-$200 for insurance. So all together, at least $2300 to own and use a car per year. Cost of a decent bike, all together: at least $300. Cost of maintenance (usually free with your bike store or college campus bike crew), but we'll just say $50. So, per year, your bike will cost you at least $350.
$2300 - $350 (the least of what you'll pay for each): $1950/year savings.
You could buy a Macbook for that.
Advice on buying a bike
I highly recommend investing in a non-retail store bike (like Wal-Mart). Why? The retail brand stores end up costing more in the end, due to all the maintenance you'll eventually have to keep up with. Just like buying a car lemon, you don't want to end up spending more on fixing it than what you paid for it. Spend a little extra from the get-go, and it will last you for a long time (even when you become a real person!)
Go search craigslist as well, often there are bikes for sell online that are better quality, cheaper, and only slightly used. REMEMBER TO DO YOUR RESEARCH. Don't get scammed by online sellers.
If you are truly desperate for money and need some form of transportation, try going to local garage sales, used bike stores, pawn shops or even goodwill for the cheapest options. Keep in mind, they probably won't last as long, but they are a good "as needed" solution.
So go ride your bike. A nicer butt, heavier wallet and maybe a new Macbook awaiiiiiiit!
