May is National and Kansas Bike Month, a statewide celebration of bicycling and the many ways it supports healthier people and stronger communities.
From daily commuters to weekend riders and those getting back on a bike for the first time, Bike Month is an opportunity for Kansans of all ages and abilities to get outside and ride.
First established in 1956 by the League of American Bicyclists, Bike Month is recognized nationwide and across Kansas. Bicycling offers a simple, accessible way to improve health, reduce transportation costs, enhance air quality, and create more connected communities.
Communities across the region are celebrating with events and activities throughout May.
Details can be found on www.ksrides.org and include:
- Concordia Bike Rodeo happening on May 2nd at 8:30 a.m. at 600 Broadway Street.
- National Bike Day is May 3rd. More people riding bikes is a simple solution to reducing carbon emissions from transportation. Start by thinking of one car trip you can replace with a bike trip on National Ride a Bike Day! Share on social media with #BikeDay
- Kansas Bike to School Day is May 6th. Communities across the state are participating, including Abilene and Concordia. Whether addressing the need to make routes to school safer for active trips or encouraging children to be more active, these events can be powerful tools to inspire lasting change.
- Aurora Bike Rodeo happening on May 9th at 8:30 a.m. in the downtown area.
- Salina Bike Rodeo happening on May 9th from 3-5 p.m. at the Kenwood Cove parking lot. Registration is through the Salina Parks and Recreation Department.
- Bike to Work day is Friday, May 15th. 40% of all trips in the U.S. are less than two miles, making bicycling a feasible and fun way to get around. This day aims to incentivize us to switch our regular commute with bikes.
- Glasco Bike Rodeo happening on May 16th at 8:30 a.m. at the Nicol Home.
- The Salina Noon Network Ambucs will give away Amtrykes to qualified individuals during the month of May.
- Slow Saturday Social Rides are held in Salina each Saturday morning in May (2, 9, 16, 23, 30) meeting at Sunflower Bank Parking lot, 176 N. Santa Fe at 9:00 a.m.
- The Salina Public Library will have a Bike Month book display in the Youth Services Department from May 1-22.
“Bike Month is a reminder that even small changes, like choosing to ride a bike, can lead to big benefits for our health, our community, and our environment,” said Michelle Coats, Director of Mobility Management for North Central Kansas. “Whether it’s to work, to school, or just around the block, every ride counts.”
For more information about Bike Month activities across the state of Kansas and Kansas Mobility Management, visit www.ksrides.org.