Be More Than A Casual Cyclist: Turn Your Passion Into A Profession With These Bike Jobs!
By Ryan Hosmer
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September 06, 2017
There are currently more than 1 billion bikes in use, which means there are twice as many bicycles in the world as there are cars! It's no surprise, then, that more people are considering all the types of comfortable bike seats available and hopping on their bike to commute, exercise, or simply have fun. But while cycling is considered to be a very popular recreational activity, you might not have considered that it can actually be part of your job, too. If you're looking for a way to combine your favorite hobby with your professional life, here are just a few bike-related occupations you might want to think about pursuing.
Bike Messenger: One of the more obvious types of cycling jobs, being a bike messenger or courier can allow you to spend most of your working hours on your bike -- particularly if you live in the city center. When packages and important documents need to get to their destination quickly and with caution, bicycle messengers often get the first call. However, keep in mind that this job does come with risks, as you'll be expected to navigate congested streets at top speed. If you're looking for a high-paying, long-term position, this might not be the best choice, especially because the need for bicycle couriers has decreased in the advent of the digital age. Still, you might enjoy the challenges that come with a job like this. If nothing else, it'll be a great adrenaline rush!
Bike Tour Guide: If you're into tourism and possess a lot of knowledge about your area, you might want to become a bike tour guide. You'll definitely want to be familiar with your town or city, especially when it comes to local restaurants, bars, and attractions. Essentially, you'll be leading a group of visitors around to give them a local's perspective on the coolest parts of your area. Expect to answer questions and dispel nuggets of knowledge. You could also consider being a pedal tour guide, where you'll lead a group on a tandem bicycle bar crawl. Keep in mind that you'll need to uphold alcohol-related laws in this position and will have to deal with intoxicated people on the regular.
Emergency Or Police Cyclist: If you've had first responder training or have spent years upholding the law, you might be able to combine your experience and activity of choice. It may not be common in the United States, but some foreign countries actually have bicycle fleets of emergency personnel and police officers. St. John's Ambulance in the U.K. is able to get their quick response team to the site of emergencies much faster than if they were in a conventional vehicle. And some police officers are able to get off their feet when they're on the beat and ride a bicycle instead. While these individuals will require specialized training, it might be great to think about more than the types of comfortable bike seats out there and instead focus on saving someone's life or keeping the public safe.
Cycling Instructor: Cycling classes are all the rage these days, and people are always looking for new and effective ways to work out. Share your love of fitness with the class and become a cycling instructor. These classes are often taught in a gym and may even allow you to create a schedule that works best for you. While the bike will be stationary and you won't probably be using the same types of comfortable bike seats you do when you're on a ride outdoors, it can still be an incredibly fulfilling job that allows you to work up a sweat and inspire other enthusiasts.
Even if you aren't able to pursue a full-time cycling gig, there are still countless ways to make bicycling a more prominent part of your everyday life. Just make sure you've chosen the best types of comfortable bike seats to make sure your work doesn't become a huge pain.
