Staff Bus vs Motorcycle: A Commuter's Dilemma

When it comes to commuting, choices vary widely depending on individual circumstances. Would you prefer the staff bus, which can save you ￡10 a day, or just stick with your trusty motorbike if you have one? In this article, we'll explore the pros and cons of each option, with a focus on the practicalities and contextual factors involved.

The Bus or the Bike?

For me, personal experience comes into play. I regularly use a bicycle to commute in the UK, relying on a city bus as a fallback. The bus can take longer and is less convenient than my bike, which is a daily cost-free indulgence. However, the situation changes if you have a staff bus or a motorbike available. The decision hinges on several factors such as frequency and convenience of the staff bus, distance to work, and personal financial considerations.

For example, if the staff bus were to pick up from my doorstep, it would be a no-brainer. However, in my case, since the staff bus hasn’t been an available option since the 1970s, I have to rely on my bicycle or city bus. This means that even though a staff bus could save ￡10 a day, it doesn’t always translate to significant savings due to the need to switch to another mode of transportation.

Commute Costs and Savings

Let's break down the cost-saving potential of a staff bus in comparison to the cost of a motorbike. A bus driver saving ￡10 per day translates to a substantial monthly and yearly savings:

￡10 per day ￡300 per month ￡300 per month ￡3,600 per year After 5 years ￡18,000 in savings

If the savings are used to purchase a motorcycle, it offers a tangible reward for the driver's efforts. Furthermore, if multiple staff members benefit from the staff bus, the collective savings can be considerable, allowing some drivers to use the motorcycle for free.

Weather and Commuting Conditions

Weather conditions significantly impact the decision to choose a staff bus over a motorbike. In warm, sunny weather, a motorbike is often the preferred choice. However, as soon as the weather turns cold and rainy or snowy, the perceived benefits of a motorcycle diminish:

November mornings with low temperatures and heavy rain Frost and snow in winter months

During such conditions, a staff bus provides a more comfortable and safer option, especially for those not as experienced or confident with motorbikes. For instance, on a freezing cold day, the prospect of arriving at work drenched from a rain-soaked walk might not be appealing to everyone.

Personal Preferences and Commuting Choices

The decision to opt for a staff bus or a motorbike ultimately comes down to personal preferences and situational factors. Some people may enjoy the ease and convenience of a staff bus, especially if they live in a location where the bus is readily available. Others, like myself, prefer the freedom and cost-effectiveness of a motorbike when the weather and practicalities align.

So, in the end, the answer may vary from one individual to another. While a staff bus is a viable option, particularly in colder and wetter months, the motorbike remains a solid choice for those who can navigate such conditions with ease. Ultimately, it's a matter of balancing convenience, cost, and personal comfort.