Join Us for National Bike to Work Day
National Bike to Work Day is Friday, May 19. The day encourages people to try commuting by bike, and the effort works! Since 2000, the number of people who bike to work is up 62 percent. Give it a try on Friday—you might find a new hobby or a new friend.
Johnson County Events
Overland Park is offering bike commuters free breakfast on Friday from 6 am to 8 am at City Hall (8500 Santa Fe Drive–east side). https://www.opkansas.org/events/bike-to-work-week/
BikeWalkKC is partnering with Erik’s Bike and Board Shop (3701 W. 95th St in Leawood) to provide two wheeled commuters coffee and treats from 7 am to 9 am.
The City of Leawood’s Employee Ride will depart from Erik’s at 7 am. You are welcome to join them if you are headed south and enjoy the police escort. http://kcbikemonth.com/event/city-of-leawood-employee-ride-to-work/
Benefits of Biking
It is important for city officials and residents to see bikers on the roads. The trend encourages motorists to beware and cities to adopt more bike-friendly infrastructure plans and policies, such as installing dedicated bike lanes and requiring businesses to provide bike racks.
For individuals, a morning ride can add to the financial bottom line and take a little off the waist line. The average cost of owning a car in 2015 was $8,700, but bikes don’t need gas or insurance, so you pocket the difference. Physical activity improves mental health, performance and mood, making for a great start to the work day. On average, people who begin biking to work lose 13 pounds the first year, reducing their risk for developing chronic diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
Still Too Intimidated?
Bike commuting can be challenging. Do you need more than free coffee to feel confident incorporating cycling into your everyday life? BikeWalkKC, LiveWell Johnson County and the City of Mission are partnering to offer a Confident City Cycling class at the Sylvester Powell Jr. Community Center (6200 Martway St. in Mission) on Thursdays in June. Classes will be held from 6 – 8:30 pm and participants will learn basic bike skills, road safety, route planning and more. Participants who need them can earn a bike and helmet through this class. To join, contact Emily Randel at [email protected] or 913-676-8368.