In 21st Century Ireland the car really is the star. The economic boom in the country has meant that many of us are doing well financially and so have more income at our disposal.

We can now buy those things we’ve always wanted or the things advertisers would have us believe we always wanted. We’ve gone and bought ourselves cars, lots of them. The figures speak for themselves with new car numbers across the country continuing to rise each year.

It is true that ownership of a car provides a wonderful freedom. You have the ability to get from one part of the country to another in a matter of hours, alone or with a group of friends. You could even take the car abroad to Europe or beyond.

But while the car as a mode of transportation for journeys of middle to long distances is fantastic it is in the city that the problems arise where, with their sheer volume of numbers, the car is no longer really practical.

Here begins a rant: For short to middle length journeys in a city the bicycle is a very efficient form of transportation. It is practically pollution free, comes with health benefits and is cheap and quiet. In and around Dublin, car and bus journey times compared with those of the bicycle differ little in time, leaning sometimes to one, sometimes to the other, depending on traffic factors, distance of journey or perhaps weather.

Cycling regularly is healthy. It keeps the heart, lungs and muscles strong and can help to maintain a steady weight. Most would-be cyclists list poor weather, windy and wet conditions as deterrents and while cycling in heavy rain or in strong winds is never really enjoyable Ireland’s temperate climate is surprisingly well suited to all-year-round cycling, excepting of course the really bad days.

So with regard to the environment, traffic congestion, oil wars and a whole host of other factors the bicycle should be considered.

Above: The Second Dublin City Cycle took place over 10 km of Dublin’s streets. The fun event was well attended with people of all ages and on all manner of bicycle taking part.

CYCLING TIPS - NEW AND OLD

1. Saddle Height
A correct position on the bicycle involves the saddle and the handle bars. With the pedal at the 6 o’clock position your leg and knee should be slightly bent.

2. Clean Chain
Clean your chain with soapy water with a small amount of degreaser (you can use diesel) and then lightly oil. If the chain is quite old it probably needs replacing.

3. Pumped Tyres
Keep you tyres well inflated. Cycling on flat tyres requires a lot more energy.

4. Pedal Form
Keep good form on the pedals, especially the chain side, by keeping clothing out of the way using trouser clips or tucking trousers into socks.

5. Be Safe Be Seen
Always make yourself as visible as possible to other road users at night. Use lights back and front and reflective vests.

6. Other Road Users
Signal your intentions clearly and always be alert and mannerly when cycling.