May is Bike Month, and cyclists are being encouraged with more than just fair weather to increase their miles and activity levels. Months of planning will culminate in two major cycling events. Publicity is being rolled out for Bike the Bend and Bike to Work Week.
Bike the Bend is an inaugural bike ride for Michiana. It is modeled after Bike the Drive in Chicago and organized rides in other cities where streets become car-free for a few hours: cyclists own the streets. This event, which is ideal family fun, takes place on Sunday, May 23.
Bike to Work Week is an annual event that has grown each year in Michiana. Riders are invited to join teams, usually organized around their workplaces, and enjoy friendly competition with other teams. The week features two special events where cyclist gather in downtown South Bend to enjoy camaraderie and some good eats. Bike to Work Week takes place from Monday, May 24 through Friday, May 28.
Biking infrastructure is improving too, as South Bend Mayor Stephen Luecke has announced over 10 miles of new city bike routes in 2010. And the Bike Michiana Coalition has purchased new portable bike parking racks to be set up for special Michiana biking events.
