If you can't beat em, join em!

The recent two-wheels trend in Bangladesh is a welcome one. It's great to see people on cycles, as it saves money and gives the people of Bangladesh some much-needed exercise. What sets the bicycle apart from a car is the fact that as it's still a new concept amongst corporate workers; it requires a support system.

Nowadays, colleagues in workplaces can be seen cycling to work, taking a shower and then changing from a T-shirt and shorts into formalwear. But when you utter the words, “I'm thinking of taking up cycling” you might hear a lot of discouraging words, examples of horrid cycle accidents and violent muggers.

This is where the cycle groups such as “BDCyclists” come in handy, especially when you do not know anyone else who owns a bicycle and are looking for likeminded bikers.

Motorcycle enthusiasts can also join the group “BRC: BD Riderz Club” on Facebook. These groups have very active forums on Facebook but also have websites where they post information on cycle care, upcoming events and useful contacts. Bear in mind that these groups are not just for social media. They are organisations with memberships and members' events and benefits.

If you are thinking of buying a cycle or motorcycle but have no idea what specifications to look out for, the forums provided by these groups will allow you to share links of possible buys so that fellow riders can give you their advice and opinions. Most importantly, they are also social groups with regular events on weekends and special holidays where members get together in one location and ride to another location, and the distance and intensity of the rides vary according to cyclists'/motorcyclists' capabilities. Rides range from casual weekend hangouts, to scenic getaways to athletic challenges.

As we have said before, the statement “there is nothing to do in Dhaka” is completely untrue. There is a lot to do, but we refuse to stop being lazy and take part in group activities.

If you own a cycle or motorcycle, these two groups will make sure you cannot complain. So join up and fill up your weekend with fun-filled activities, exercise and some new friends.

For more information and membership visit: www.bdcyclists.com; www.bdriderzclub.com