Emilie Flynn is Geelong Sustainability’s Operations and Project Coordinator and this is her journey towards active transport.
I’ve always hated the idea of owning a car – the emissions, the traffic, and particularly the cost. So in early 2023 I took the plunge and sold my car in favour of an electric bike. I lived car-free in Geelong for a year and a half, and I want to share all the great, and not-so-great, things about it.
The Benefits: Cost savings, health and wellbeing and the environmental impact
Owning a car, even a fuel-efficient one like my old 2008 Hyundai Getz, is expensive—about $3,900 annually. After accounting for maintenance and potential repairs if anything goes wrong, costs could soar. My e-bike, which cost a little under $4,000, has annual expenses of about $500 for charging, servicing, and insurance. This saved me $3,400 annually, which covers public transport or taxis if needed.
Riding my e-bike boosts my energy levels and improves my mood. The physical activity, even with the bike’s motor assistance, has been beneficial. I also enjoy mental health perks from avoiding traffic frustrations and appreciating scenic rides, such as along the river. Exploring Geelong by bike has deepened my connection with the environment and city.
I used to drive about 10,000 km a year, producing around 1.4 tonnes of CO2. Switching to a bike eliminated those emissions, aligning with my environmental values.
The Drawbacks: Weather and injuries
Although there are alot of perfect weather days to travel in, cycling in extreme heat, wind, rain or cold can be uncomfortable. I invested in winter gear to cope with low temperatures, including gloves, a waterproof jacket, and a balaclava for when it’s really cold.
While driving with minor injuries was manageable, biking with an injury could seriously hinder my mobility. Fortunately, this hasn’t been an issue yet, even though I am an injury prone person.
Individual Circumstances
It’s important to remember that everyone’s circumstances are different, and that not everyone can sell their car and get a bike instead. I am an able-bodied thirty-year-old who works from home four days a week.
And, as they always do, my individual circumstances have changed since I made the switch. While I still ride my e-bike as often as I can, I now have work and volunteer commitments totalling around 70 hours a week, which is just not feasible without the quickest transport option available. I have purchased a car again, but hope to see a future for this City where living car-free is a viable option.