May is Bike Month

May is National Bike Month.  

According to the League of American Bicyclists, it is “an opportunity to celebrate the unique power of the bicycle and the many reasons we ride. Whether you bike to work or school; to save money or time; to preserve your health or the environment; to explore your community or get to your destination, get involved in Bike Month in your city or state — and help get more people in your community out riding too!”

TransPortage, a citizens sector organization working on sustainable prosperity for Portage County and our region, has been working with the Portage Park District, and Ravenna Parks and Recreation, as well as local bicycle shops and businesses to promote bicycle month.

Today at 10 a.m. there is a 12-mile family fun ride, beginning at the Franklin Township Portage trail head at , riding to Ravenna Athletic Center, then returning to the beginning for refreshments and goodie bags. Please register by calling Portage Cyclery at 330-839-8429 or email eric@portagecyclery.org.  

Monday, May 7, at 6:30 p.m. join in a discussion at the about Bicycle Friendly Communities.  It is a chance to learn about local plans to extend our our current bike path and lane system, and discuss what we can do to improve safety and awareness of bicycles in our communities.  Bring your ideas and join the discussion.

Saturday May 12, at noon, Pedal to the Parks will explore on Bike with Cathy Ricks, Kent Parks and Recreation Naturalist. Meet at on Burbick Way, and ride with marshals from KentCycle.  After the ride meet at Kent Cycle for refreshments and family friendly entertainment.

May 13 through 18 is Bike to Work Week. Pick a Day, plan a safe route, check your gear, wear a helmet and park your car. On May 18, Kent State will host a Fuelless Friday,

On May 19, ride your bike to Riverday Events www.cuyahogariver.net.  For the more adventurous and skilled riders, meet at 1 or 3 p.m. at for 25 mile road rides, both if you want to ride 50. Refreshments and entertainment provided at 5 p.m. Call 330-839-8429 to register.  

On Tuesday May 22, at 6:30 p.m. join us at Kent Free Library to learn about the benefits of bicycling. Representatives from planning agencies, health departments, parks and recreation, and TransPortage will discuss the health, economic and ecological benefits of embracing a bicycling lifestyle. Come share your thoughts and experiences.

May is National Bike Month, and as more people, especially children, take to the streets, sidewalks and paths, it is a good time to remember the rules of the road and be extra cautious. Get out your bike map, pick a route and enjoy.