Driving is not the only option

Tuesday, June 1, 2004
The Spira Shoe spring is designed to cushion the foot on impact and help reduce strain on the feet, legs and joints. It is among the latest shoe technology found at Brown Shoe Fit.

J. PARKER ADAIR

Gazette Writer

Gas prices keep rising and it is becoming more financially difficult to drive places. Living in a close community leaves options open for city travel. The two biggest of these are by riding a bike or taking a walk, and some people are already doing so.

Bob Elder of the Sports Shoppe said, "I would anticipate people getting back into riding bikes."

Cinda Coleman had that exact idea. Tuesday afternoon, she could be found at Trustworthy Hardware purchasing her new bike. Her plan was to ride a bike to work instead of burning gas.

"I work at the city pool," she said. "Plus, it's good exercise."

After the summer is over, the bike will be her mode of transportation at the University of Kansas.

While bicycle business hasn't picked up quite yet for Trustworthy, Tom Poore said, "If gas prices go up, I'd expect more people to come in."

People have also come in to get their bikes fixed up.

"In the spring, that's when everyone gets the bikes out," Poore said. "I've got a basement full of tuned up bikes."

He and Elder agree on the health benefits associated with the extra exercise.

Elder, a man with a history of back problems, said, "It's (walking) probably the best thing you can do for your heart and back, stretching and walking."

"It's (bike riding) a very good alternative," Poore said. "It's not that big of a town."

Possibly the two biggest concerns about either purchasing a bicycle or new walking shoes are health and price.

"Our cushion system shoes have a cushion in the heal to absorb shock," Elder said. "It absorbs about 90-95 percent. That means a lot when you have bad joints."

Dave Belmar of Brown Shoe Fit said, "Our business range is different than Wal-Mart. We fit it for the person instead of them coming in and saying 'I wear a size 8.' Some people fit in Nikes better than they do New Balance."

As for price, Coleman (referring to the money she'd save by riding) said, "I'd rather save money than spend it."

Belmar said, "I walk to work everyday, and I'd use more gas sitting at a stoplight."

If prices keep going up, more people may consider other options. Taking out the bicycle or walking are two that are starting to catch on.

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