Cycling to work is not a mainstream option in the US for a variety of reasons, many habitual and others cultural. Pollution and congestion on the roads are the obvious side effects, however it is not something that cannot change. Cars are not the way of the future, and cycling as a practical means of transport needs to be made more viable for everyone.
Origins of Bike to Work Day SF
The San Francisco Bicycle Coalition is a group formed in 1971 by activists. Their purpose was one part environmental and one part community focused, with the aim of developing a bike-friendly city. Today, San Francisco has evolved into a much more bike-friendly place, thanks to the hard work and dedication of a number of volunteers over the years.
The Bike to Work Day Event
Bike to Work Day is a well-coordinated event that is promoted to individuals, teams, and companies. It is a social event with volunteers set up across the city in refreshment stands, tune-up stations, and team incentives. Corporate teams are encouraged to ride to work every day for a month with prizes for participating teams. This is in essence the key to the movement. It is about a long-term goal of mobilizing people and enabling a cultural shift in perceptions and approach to transport.
The Goal Moving Forward
SF Ride to Work Day is considered a success, however it is clear that there is plenty of room to improve cycling infrastructure around the city. The next steps from here are to continue the push, establish more cycle lanes, and broaden access to public bikes. Across the nation, cities can model off the success in San Francisco but also look to build upon it and improve to ensure that cycling is not just a past-time, but a viable and safe transport option for locals.
19 Comments
Caroline Kaugher
8/24/2016 05:46:11 am
I was always terrified to get on a bike and ride on normal roads within the city, always afraid I was going to get hit. would definitely consider it if there were more cycling lanes and I didn't fear for my life! Sure would change a lot of things if we relied on bicycles more than cars. People would be healthier in sooo many ways!
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Tim C
8/24/2016 07:03:27 am
Very inspiring message. Glad to read it!
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Bobby Jones
8/24/2016 07:15:38 am
Wow, what an inspiring post!
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Austin Kline
8/24/2016 07:16:42 am
It's nice to see San Francisco be more open minded to bicycles. The rules of the road are changing and I do agree that the future is positive for cyclists. Not only is it great for exercising but also the environment.
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Shasta McAnally Martin
8/24/2016 08:39:05 am
I think the bike to work is a great idea. More people should do this
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Mike Teberio
8/24/2016 08:40:25 am
Cycling has been a huge part of my life for a long time and too read a article like this is fasinating . My family had grew me up on it always took me too events and showed me the right way too do it . I really would love too hear more about these brilliant adventures !!!
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Mykal Boyle
8/24/2016 05:01:28 pm
Very informative! I'll be sure to spread the message!
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Montanna Slight
8/24/2016 08:04:10 pm
I think cycling is a great idea for exercise. Saves money, keeps you fit at the same time. Great article!
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Sam
8/24/2016 09:32:01 pm
I much enjoy cycling rather than driving around because not only it is a good exercise but it's also a culture. This article explains the importance of how cycling influences those within the culture.
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HannahV
8/26/2016 05:25:28 pm
I'd never heard of Bike to Work Day but I'll be sure to participate in my own way, next year!
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John Willz
8/26/2016 06:55:55 pm
You'd better bike to work if you live in San Francisco, because you sure won't be able to afford a car with the cost of living out there! Just kidding, this is just one of the reasons SF is a great place.
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Vincent Agosta
8/27/2016 06:24:45 am
Riding a bike to work, is healthy, and most of all it saves money on gas and car usage. I would highly encourage this. Europe already does this.
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George Huang
8/27/2016 01:58:23 pm
It's great to see that one of the most beautiful cities in the world is almost making a move to be more environment friendly!
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julio pacio
8/28/2016 11:15:12 am
This is a great group with an awesome cause.Combining biking and environment issue is a genius idea.
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Lian
8/28/2016 06:12:37 pm
Very interesting! Bicycling is so much healthier on your body, you are not only getting the fresh air, you are exercising too! Hope in the future this becomes more of use!
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marvz
9/3/2016 01:52:07 pm
Wow this is a healthy goal you have and you are right that this is for a change. In my country in Asia, when I was still there, I love to bike going to work as well.
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Hello I really enjoy bike to work day, several of us work at the University and either ride together or meet up at the stop to say hello and get a photo. It is really nice of you all to put this together for us and thank you for the food and bike repairs that is AWESOME! Thank you again!
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Judy Workman
9/6/2016 02:19:16 am
Riding a bike to work is a less expensive way to get there and also a way to exercise. Cycling is much healthier for people who choose to do it. The author has the right idea getting people to ride a bike to work every day.
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jacqueline
11/16/2016 08:30:15 am
Terrific event. Riding a bike is definitely the healthiest form of transportation as well as a great stress reliever.
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