Opinion: Bike to Work Day 2013

By Dan Harkins

Thinking about trying bike commuting or using your bike for errands and other short trips? Want to try bike commuting on “Bike to Work Day 2013”?

The City of Lafayette Bike & Pedestrian Advisory Committee (BPAC) will conduct a one-hour workshop covering skills, basic gear, and rules of the road. This is a great introductory workshop for people who are new to bicycling or interested in learning how to enjoy safe and comfortable bike commuting. The workshop will take place at the Lafayette Public Library & Learning Center, in the Arts & Science Classroom, on Thursday, May 2, from 7-8 p.m.

Areas covered at the workshop include:

•  Rules of the Road – how to ride in traffic, actions at intersections, using bike lanes, safe riding practices for youth/student riders.
•  Choosing gear – bikes, helmets, lights, locks, & accessories.
•  Clothing & post-ride hygiene — how to freshen up after the commute and look fresh and businesslike.
•  Route planning – resources and taking bicycles on transit.

 
Youth riders (ages 6-12) are encouraged to attend (accompanied by a parent) to learn about safe ways to ride to school or to friend’s homes.

After attending the bike commute workshop, consider riding on Bike to Work Day 2013 that takes place on Thursday, May 9th. Bike to Work day is a great opportunity to join other commuters traveling to work by bike. The Lafayette BPAC and Sustainable Lafayette will host an “Energizer” refreshment station from 6:30-8:30 a.m. in Lafayette’s Plaza Park offering coffee, fruit, bagels, and other free refreshments.
 
This presentation is free and is part of the City of Lafayette's efforts to encourage and support more residents to use their bikes. Sign up for the workshop is required. For more information and to sign up, please contact Bart Carr at bart@sustainablelafayette.com.

Dan Harkins is a member of Lafayette's Bicycle-Pedestrian Advisory Committee.