While some people think of May flowers, the Des Moines Bicycle Collective’s board, staff and volunteers think “Bike Month!”
“Each year, the event, and enthusiasm for biking, has grown, and today, we celebrate May as Bike MONTH with events that include a Bike Commute Challenge, as well as organized rides for education and fun,” explained Jeremy Lewis, the Des Moines Bicycle Collective (DMBC) executive director.
The purpose of Bike Month is to provide opportunities for people to get involved in the bicycling culture of Central Iowa. As Iowa continues to strive for the Healthiest State recognition, bicycling is one way to exercise, get somewhere you want to go, and save money on gas all at the same time.
Organized by the Des Moines Bicycle Collective, Bike Month provides a time each year to gauge how many people are riding their bikes and why. Jay Polson, board chair of the DMBC, said, “Are you commuting to work, are you riding the trails with your grandchild, are you riding to the coffee shop or grocery store?... join the fun by registering atwww.bikemonthiowa.comand participate in the Passport Adventure.”
The Passport Adventure provides a list of events taking place throughout the metro area in May. Participate in as many as you can, get your Passport stamped each time and become eligible to win prizes from local bike shops and restaurants.
“We have our tried and true events such as the Coolest Bike in Town contest and Wheels & Heels – and we have some new events such as the Tour de Cluck and many community rides with local Mayors,” added Lewis. “Not to mention that we are encouraging every business to register a team for the Bike Commute Challenge and log their collective miles throughout May.”
Check our website for a complete list of events, updates and inclement weather announcements –www.bikemonthiowa.com.
Tips for Commuting by Bike:
- Have your bike checked by an experienced rider or a local bike shop to make sure all parts are working well.
- Always wear a helmet and reflective clothing.
- Follow all traffic signals and stop signs.
- Ride in the right most lane of traffic in the direction you are traveling. NOTE: Cyclists fair best when they act like a car.
- Look before changing lanes and be sure to signal, just as you would in a car.