世界节假日博览 第100期:骑车上班日

Bike-to-Work Day is held every year across North America on the third Friday of May. It was started by the League of American Bicyclists in 1956. Its aim is to promote the bicycle as a serious choice of getting to and from work. In today's world where global warming is a serious issue, the bicycle is a perfect way of reducing our carbon footprint. Cycling to work is a healthy alternative to driving or taking public transport. A healthier society means there is not so much pressure on the country's health system. Of course, it depends how far you live from your place of work. Cycling is also much kinder on your pocket. Another benefit of cycling is feeling more creative and full of energy once you get to work, which will improve your performance.
在北美，5月的第3个周五为“骑车上班日”。美国自行车联盟于1956年发起。鼓励大家上下班骑车。当今世界，全球变暖日益严重，骑车是减少碳足迹的理想选择。比起驾车或公交，骑车上班有益健康。减少医疗压力是健康社会的重要标志。当然，这要取决于地点远近。骑车经济实惠。骑车上班能够增强创造力，增强活力，提高工作效益。


Bicycles are the most common form of transport in the world. There are about one billion worldwide. This makes it the most popular invention ever. When we think of some countries, like China, we imagine hundreds of people cycling everywhere. Even in high-tech Japan, it is impossible not to see businessmen, farmers, mothers or workers in the streets on their bikes. Bicycles were invented in the 19th century and haven't changed much since. Bicycles now have gears, better brakes and suspension, but the shape is the same as before. We use bicycles today for recreation, fitness, policing, Olympic competition, mail delivery and lots more. Without the bicycle, much of the world might stop working!
自行车是最常见的交通工具。全球约10亿辆自行车。它也是史上最火爆的发明。中国是自行车大国。甚至在技术发达的日本，许多商人、农民、妇女、工人仍然使用自行车。自行车发明于19世纪，但变动一直不大。如今，自行车拥有了档位，良好的刹车性能以及减震装置，但形状始终如一。如今，我们用它娱乐、健身、邮递、巡查治安等，它还是奥运会比赛项目。没有它，世界或将停滞不前！