Midtown Cyclists Encouraged to Participate in Atlanta Bike Challenge

Staff Report

In an effort to further promote cycling as a fun and sustainable transportation alternative, Georgia Commute Options and the Atlanta Regional Commission are partnering with international firm, Love to Ride, with support from People for Bikes, to present the Atlanta Bike Challenge from September 28 to October 19.

Designed to appeal to beginner and veteran cyclists alike, the Atlanta Bike Challenge is a free competition designed to encourage Metro Atlantans to try cycling for ten minutes or more. Atlanta businesses and organizations will compete against each other to see who can get the most staff to ride a bike during the Challenge period. Rather than scoring based on who can cycle the most miles, this Challenge focuses on which businesses can encourage the most people to give bicycling a try.

By registering at www.ATLBikeChallenge.com, participants will be able to log their bicycle commute trips, track their individual and team progress, find classes/events, and compete for prizes through the website or by downloading the “Love to Ride” mobile app.

Cycling — lauded for its positive effects on health, wellness, and air quality — is growing in popularity in Metro Atlanta. Between 2000 and 2012, bike commute trips in the region saw a 166 percent increase.

Throughout the Atlanta Bike Challenge, prizes will be awarded including a $500 credit toward a new bike, passes to local restaurants, movie ticket vouchers, bike swag and more. Participants are also encouraged to post photos using #ATLBikeSelfie to social media accounts and can follow the Challenge online via Georgia Commute Options’ social media pages:

Facebook.com/GeorgiaCommuteOptions

Twitter: @GaCommute

Instagram: @GaCommute