You may recognize this month's Human Powered Hero, Sara Foster, from around the Co-op or maybe from her massage and yoga practice, Body Song Studio. We usually see her towing a bike trailer around town and thought we needed to ask her a few questions.

Photo by Isaak Julye and Emmett Breedlovestrout

Why do you use a bicycle for transportation?
I've ridden a bike since I was little, but just the past few years I've started using the bike to get around town. I realized that for many trips around town the bike is the fastest and most convenient way to go, especially on campus, you can park right outside your building. No hassle with parking or lugging bags on your shoulder.

How far is your average commute?
I usually ride about a mile or so each day, I live in a central location and work downtown. I've done some longer rides for fun and might be riding the bike leg of a triathlon next year.

Best and worst of biking in Moscow?
The weather is great! The mild weather makes it ride-able year round—unlike Laramie, Wyoming where I used to live. Worst? I think downtown could use more bike racks, they are always full and it's hard to park, especially with a trailer on your bike.

Essential commuter item?
Baskets, lots of baskets! I have three baskets on my bike and put all of them to use. You have to be able to bring your supplies, especially if you're using your bike to get to work or school. When I'm hauling larger loads I use a bike trailer, it's amazing how easy it is to pull things around town. It's really not much harder than normal riding, and then you feel so fast when you ride without a trailer!

Any tips for making the Low-car Lifestyle more practical?
Plan ahead. Each morning I analyze my day to see if a car is necessary for my business: Am I hauling eight demonstration skeletons for teaching anatomy or am I teaching yoga in Palouse or Genesee? I run through my day and usually do not need to drive. I save up my trips that need a car and then do them all at once.

What inspires you to ride?
You guys!
Yeah, we rock.
Well, not just you guys, it's all the people I see riding around town. And my brother is the biggest inspiration. He's a pedicab rider in Denver; it's great encouragement.


The Bike Brothers were born with four eyes, four ears and a limited number of brain cells. Because of this unfortunate situation, they have a hard time knowing everything happening in our community with regards to sustainable transportation. Want us to know about something? Email This email address is being protected from spam bots, you need Javascript enabled to view it