Happy Bike to Work Week!
Even though different communities celebrate it at different times, this week is officially National Bike to Work Week -- an important part of National Bike Month. We hope you're riding to work this week, and maybe even taking a friend along who hasn't tried bike commuting before!
Bicycling for transportation is at an all time high in the U.S: the number of bike commuters rose by 64% from 1990 to 2009. Now that gas prices are rivaling record-high 2008 levels, we think bike commuting will grow even more. In 2008 alone when gas prices were high, it increased 15% nationally and 23% in the 31 largest bicycle-friendly cities.
To be sure, there are lots of reasons to commute by bike beyond high gas prices. According to a survey of 2,400 riders:
- 95% ride for health and fitness
- 82% do it for the environment
- 52% bike to avoid congestion
- 46% ride to save money on gasoline
- 34% want to avoid car-parking costs and availability
Any reason you choose to ride to work is a good one! And, don't forget, 50% of trips Americans make are three miles or less. So, there are plenty of places to ride your bike for transportation even if work is too far away or not accessible by bike.
Check out these fun resources to help you promote Bike to Work Week or Day in your town! Feel free to print them out and share with other riders you know. Click on an image to get the high-res version.
