Gasoline in Chicago reached an average price of over $4 per gallon this week, and the price could go even higher. On the bright side, we haven’t yet reached European price levels — yesterday, gas in Paris was going for $9 per gallon.
Now is a good time to remember a simple technology that can get you a zillion miles to the gallon. Yes, I'm talking about the lowly yet efficient bicycle — which, while few have watched, has gone high-tech. For those of you who live a few miles from work or from mass transportation, there are some new, highly efficient bikes out there that can save you hundreds, even thousands of dollars a year in gas, insurance and, while we’re at it, guilt. Oh, and you might even get a little exercise.
For commutes 10 miles or less
Giant Suede Coasting DX The coolest women’s commuter bike out there includes a new transmission from Japanese parts giant Shimano that shifts automatically. Yes, automatically — a flywheel senses your speed and shifts for you. No knobs, no nothing. It’s from the largest bike company in the world — Giant.
And in addition to thin, lightweight fenders that keep dirt down, dual “panniers” (gear bags) on the rear wheel for your office stuff, a small rack to hold your gear and a comfortable upright position that makes riding easy, the Suede’s automatic three-speed transmission is perfectly suited for gentle hills and flat ground. MSRP is $800, but can be found for $699; giant-bicycles.com
For commutes 7 miles or less
Dahon Vitesse D7HG While it looks a little offbeat, the Dahon Vitesse may be the world’s ultimate short-commute/city-commute bicycle. It has a lightweight aluminum frame, a customizable, telescoping handlepost that adjusts the handlebars to all rider heights, and a “Biologic” post pump — an ingenious, integrated bike pump that’s hidden in the seat post, safe from weather and thieves.
But best of all, there’s the big hinge — as in, this bike folds up, quickly and easily. In seconds, you can hop off, pop two stainless-steel hinges and fold everything into a 12 x 27 x 32-inch square. Then put it in a trunk, in your office cube or even behind the seat in the train. It’s even fun to ride — the upright position is comfortable and efficient. Comes with mudguards, a rack and a seven-speed shifter. $659; dahon.com
For commutes 5 miles or less
Electra Bike’s Super Deluxe Aluminum So you’re not sure you like this whole “being seen on a bike” thing, and style matters to you just as much as going green. Possible solution: The stylin’ and reasonably priced Electra Super Deluxe Aluminum (pictured at the top of the story), a modern construction (7005 aluminum frame, Shimano three-speed coaster/shifter) with thoroughly retro looks. The swept-back chrome handlebars will remind many of their youth, as will the cushy, sprung bike seat, the red-rimmed fat tires, the sleek chain guard and the swooping, chrome front fork bridge.
Add the shiny rack for briefcase, backpack or computer bag, and you’ve got one of the best-looking rides on the planet. Plus, Electra offers literally hundreds of accessories (dice-covers for your valves, anyone?) to personalize your commute. Granted, it’s not lightweight, but for shorter commutes, it’s a beautiful and comfortable option. $500; electrabike.com
Paul Hochman is the gear and technology editor for the TODAY Show and a Fast Company magazine contributor. He covered the Olympic Games in Salt Lake City, Athens and Torino, Italy, for TODAY. He was also a three-year letter winner on the Dartmouth ski team and has a black belt in karate. Paul’s blog can be found at: