Iowa cyclists will take to the streets in May

Are you riding your bicycle in May? The American League of Bicyclists is promoting Bike Month (#bikemonth) in the month of May. Throughout the nation, and throughout the   month, cyclists will promote the lifelong sport of cycling and cycling as an alternative means of ‘active’ transportation. The calendar includes Bike to Work Week (May 16-20) and Bike to Work Day (May 20).

Surveys show a growing trend nationwide of people hopping back on their bikes for recreation and for commuting. Maybe you’ve seen it in Iowa, too. A few stats:

• In large Bicycle-friendly Communities, bicycle commuting rates increased 105%, from 2000 to 2013.American League of Bicyclists 
• Des Moines ranks among the top ten of cities its size in % of bike commuters. American League of Bicyclists American Community Survey
•  The number of trips made by bike in the US rose from 1.7 Billion to 4 Billion in 2009.

Why are more people riding bikes? As the League of American Bicyclists points out, there are a number of factors including: cleaner air, it’s a lifelong sport, you can save money on gas – and you feel the wind on your face. There are truly too many health and wellness benefits to list.

If you’d like to participate in Bike Month activities, consider checking out Bike Iowa for a list of events, forums and other community-minded resources for experienced or new cyclists. The American League of Bicyclists is also a great resource for Bike Month support.

 

Do you know the story of how two reporters accidentally started the world’s largest bike tour in Iowa? http://www.vox.com/2015/7/29/9060215/ragbrai-history-iowa