Bike To Work Day, May 18, 2012

Imagine this: it’s a cool morning, the sun is rising higher and the wind is rushing past your ears. You roll by cars stopped in traffic and turn onto a tree-lined path. The air smells great and you feel alive! As you get closer to town you join-up with other 2-wheeled riders at a pit stop for free snacks, beverages and a few laughs. Now ask yourself: is this better than sitting in commuter traffic, or what?

Commuters meet-up at Bike To Work Day

Turn this daydream into reality on Friday, May 18th, as Montgomery County and the Washington region recognizes Bike To Work Day. This day celebrates biking and helps commuters find car-alternative and healthy ways to get to work. Its fun, free and you can get prizes for participating!

So far 8,000 commuters have registered for pit stops around the region. It’s easy and can be done online. All you have to do is choose a pit stop to visit on your way to work. There you will receive a free t-shirt, water bottle, and have access to healthy snacks, coffee and other beverages from event sponsors like Whole Foods and Starbucks.

While you are registering, consider joining WABA – the Washington Area Bicycle Association. This organization helps cyclists by providing workshops, route maps and other biking activities and is offering a $10 discount on membership if you become a member while registering for your pit stop.

Other event sponsors can help you stay on the road. For instance, if you’re unsure about proper bike maintenance, staff from local bike shops, such as Silver Cycles, Bicycle Place and REI, will be on hand and to provide bike check-ups and make sure your wheels are rolling safely. And, you will also have a chance to register your wheels with the Montgomery County Police. The county’s bicycle registration program helps to find and reclaim stolen bikes.

Registering for Bike To Work Day also ensures that you will have a chance to win raffle prizes. Local sponsors have supplied items such as bike gloves, locks and even new bicycles for the raffle. Be sure to register at the pit stop you plan to visit so you get a raffle ticket!

So, what are you waiting for? Pump up those tires, grease the chain and get ready to bike to work next Friday, May 18th!