May is National BIke Month and for 2017 BikeWalkSolana has secured a GO By Bike mini-grant from SANDAG. “Go By Bike Solana Beach!” is a campaign to encourage Solana Beach residents to use their bicycles as an effective transportation alternative to the automobile, with a focus on commuting to work, local shopping, riding to school for the youth, and having fun. There will be 3 free activities funded by our grant to maximize participation for National Bike Month, particularly national days for biking to school and work. Better yet, make biking to work and/or school part of your daily routine!

May 2 and 6 -Smart Cycling Class – The Smart Cycling Program encourages and educates adult cyclists to understand the best practices for cyclists to co-exist safely, responsibly, and legally with motorists on our local roads. The program elements are certified by the League of American Bicyclists and consist of an evening  classroom session on May 2 followed by  a road session on May 6. where the classroom training is put to practice and will include useful bike handling and safety skills via parking lot drills. This is the first time a Smart Cycling class has been offered in Solana Beach, where the road session will emphasize Solana Beach roads and infrastructure.. Pre-registration is required. Click here to register for the pre-requisite Classroom Session and then click here for the May 6 Road Session. For those with kids, you will be better prepared to teach your children to ride safely. Teenagers may register if accompanied by a parent.

May 10 – National Bike to School Day

May 13 – Commuter Practice Ride – 10 am at La Colonia Park. Learn the most efficient routes for commuting through Solana Beach to various work locations south, north and east and to transit centers for a multi-modal commute combining the bike with bus or Coaster. Get a free iCommute Bicycle Route Map. Experienced, certified instructors will provide tips via teaching moments before, during and after the ride. We will be visiting the local Solana Beach bike shops to learn simple maintenance and see the latest in commuting bikes and gear. If you get a chance to take the Smart Cycling Class, you will be even better prepared for your daily commute.

May 18 – San Diego Bike to Work Day

May 21 – Community Joy Ride – 10 am at La Colonia Park. Solana Beach is a great place to ride a bike so come on out for a Community Joy Ride. The focus here is on just getting around town and riding a bike for fun, health and environment. It is an opportunity for families to ride together and enjoy a sweet treat at the end. This ride will be led by certified instructors.

For a version of our Go By Bike Solana Beach! flyer to share with others, please click here.