One less car in a household can mean one less expense, especially in the days of record-high fuel prices. Collectively, it could mean less traffic congestion and improved air quality if more residents made trips on two wheels instead of four.  In April, Valley Metro is encouraging local residents to use a bike for travel or leisurely trips.  With more than 14 events being held across the Valley, there’s plenty of reason to pedal your way to family fun.

“With our favorable weather and extensive network of paths and trails, bicycling is a great travel option in the Valley” said Steve Banta, Valley Metro CEO. “We’d like to see more people exercise their options when it comes to leaving a car behind.”

Valley Metro promotes bicycling events as part of the local Clean Air Campaign, a general public awareness effort to emphasize the importance of air quality and ways to reduce vehicle trips. Bicycling is a non-polluting, low cost form of transportation that is feasible for many types of daily trips and can help extend the transit trip.  Riders of all ages should wear a properly fitted helmet, wear brightly colored clothing, and follow the rules of the road.  For additional information, go to: valleymetro.org.

Premier events occurring during Valley Bike Month incorporate partnerships with REI, a national outdoor retailer, as well as many cities and towns in Maricopa County. The events focus on activities that families can enjoy, as well as bike safety, maintenance and rules of the road. Two of the most popular bike month events are listed below:

  • Great Bike Chase — Downtown Phoenix, Sunday, April 22; 10:30 a.m. Features self-guided bike rides from a location of your choice. A bike expo will be held at Chase Field prior to the game featuring a bike safety rodeo, kids’ activities, snacks and prize drawings. Event is free and game ticket discounts are available for riders. Go to registration.valleymetro.org.

 

Also, free valet bike parking is available at all home Diamondbacks’ games in April at the Urban Commons Summit, which is adjacent to the ballpark and supported by the Summit at Copper Square. Local organizations providing staff for the valet bike parking include the Arizona Bicycle Club, the Coalition of Arizona Bicyclists and the Tempe Bike Action Group. Valet bike parking begins with the April 3 exposition game at 6:40 p.m. Be sure to use front and rear lights on bikes during any night time riding.

  • Bike to Work & School Day—Gilbert,  Mesa, Phoenix/Maricopa County, Scottsdale, and Tempe, Wednesday, April 18; check website for times. Features (varying upon location): food, contests, prize drawings and t-shirts. More information at valleymetro.org/bike_month/bike_work_school_day/