San Francisco Bay Area Bike 2 Work Day Encourages Commuting by Bike

SAN FRANCISCO — San Francisco Bay Area residents are dusting off their bikes, checking their brakes and airing up their bicycle tires in preparation for the area's annual Bike 2 Work Day, scheduled for Thursday, May 18.

The annual event that encourages people to commute to work by bike is held every May during National Bike Month.

The Bay Area Bike 2 Work Day is organized by the Metropolitan Transportation Commission, in partnership with local bike coalitions. The event is free to participate in, and there are no registration fees, all that participants need is the desire to ride their bicycle to work that day. Riders are invited to pledge to ride by visiting the Bay Area Bike to Work Day website, here.

On the day of the event, there are a number of activities and events taking place throughout the Bay Area. There are energizer stations set up along major bike routes, where participants can stop for snacks, drinks, and information. There are also a number of group rides taking place, led by experienced cyclists.

Some events and activities include a Bike to Work Day Pizza Party at Centripedal Bikes, 3636 Thornton Avenue in Fremont from 3-6 p.m. on May 18, the Richmond-San Rafael Bridge E-bike and Commuter Morning Ride from 7-11:30 a.m. Friday, May 26 beginning at the Richmond BART station and National Bike Month giveaways in Dublin and Pleasanton throughout the month.

"The Bay Area Bike 2 Work Day is a great way to get started with commuting by bike," organizers said. "It is also a great way to meet other people who are interested in biking to work."

Benefits of commuting by bike:

• It is a healthy way to get around.
• It is a great way to save money on gas and parking.
• It is a fun and enjoyable way to start your day.
• It is a great way to reduce traffic congestion.

Tips for commuting by bike:

• Make sure your bike is in good working order.
• Dress appropriately for the weather.
• Be aware of your surroundings and obey the rules of the road.
• Start with short commutes and gradually increase your distance.
• Find a group of friends or co-workers to bike with.

Commuting by bike can be a great way to improve health, save money, and reduce your environmental impact.

Those interested in participating in the Bay Area Bike 2 Work Day can find more information on the MTC website here.