Bicycling in Omaha

By Kevin J. Gillespie

April 7, 2002
Modified: June 22, 2002

Bicycling is an excellent recreational activity for Omaha area residents and has numerous economic and health benefits. Cycling is great for family fun and comradery. Omaha area residents have access to the wonderful Keystone and Wabash Trace trails in Council Bluffs. More are being planned in response to citizen interest. New technology found in bicycles today makes cycling even more enjoyable.

Consider the purchase of a new bicycle as an investment in your health. If you are looking for an exercise regimen that really works, know that all successful exercise regimens create positive experiences that keep you coming back for more. If you have been a runner or jogger and have noticed your knees complain more than they used to, cycling is a great low impact exercise. If you started running and gave up because you felt your body was moving, but not going anywhere, consider bicycling. Compared to running, cycling is more suited for Omahans during the summer months. You stay cooler and cover more scenery while on a bicycle. Can’t stick with a regular exercise program? Cycling will provide the variety in your exercize routine to avoid boredom and promote total fitness.

The bicycles of today are much improved over those made within the last five years. Technology has made bicycles stronger, lighter, and easier to shift. Good bicycles are very affordable and come in varying styles to suit your needs. Bicycle shops, bicycle clubs, and other bikers are great sources of information to enhance your biking experience. Bike clubs like Omaha Pedalers Bicycle Club and the Bike vendors like the Bike-Rack can help you select the bike for you and connect you with fun of group rides and related events. There are many fine bicycle shops in the Omaha area that can assist you in finding the right bicycle for you. Definitely look at the comfort or touring bikes to experience the type of ride you remember as a youth. Bikes are reasonably priced. You can spend $250 to over $900 for a bicycle. Look for not just the price, but the service after the sale. Many bike shops want you to have a great experience on your bike and they will show the accessories that help. I have found the best time to shop for a bicycle is during the week or when the weather is bad. If you like a salesperson to answer all your questions, avoid a busy weekend when the weather is nice.

Take a bicycle on your next vacation here or overseas. Several years ago, while vacationing in Paris, Munich, and Amsterdam, I was able to rent a very comfortable touring bicycle at the train station or hostel, and was able to visit all the attractions I wanted to see without the hassle and expense of renting, parking, and driving a car. Many of us here in Omaha do not appreciate how liberating it is to be free of all the expenses of owning a vehicle. Better yet, avoid the next energy crisis and ride a bike to work.