SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
Riding your bike is good for you and good for the environment. Every time people opt to hop on their bikes instead of driving their cars, they’re reducing air pollution, traffic congestion, and economic dependence on fossil fuels.
During the Living Green Expo, learn more about how biking can become part of your lifestyle during a Bike Rodeo and Bike Fashion Show, coordinated and sponsored by the Bicycle Alliance of Minnesota (BikeMN).
The vision of BikeMN is that “bicycling should be a safe, easy, fun, and cool choice for everyone,” says Dorian Grilley, executive director. “More people bicycling more often will benefit the health of individuals, communities, and the environment.”
Formally created in 2008, BikeMN membership grew to more than 1,000 in the first 18 months, with members from 130 communities around the state. The nonprofit organization advocates for bicycle-friendly laws, policies, projects, and programs; educates drivers and bicyclists through a national curriculum; encourages biking with events and promotions; and helps businesses and communities become more bike-friendly.
The Bike Rodeo will include the necessary safety aspects of riding a bicycle on streets and roads, bike tune-ups (air and tires, brakes, cranks and chain, and frame and fit), and rules of the road; while the Bike Fashion Show—May 5 and 6 at 1 p.m. on the Progress Center Stage—will feature bikes, gear, and clothing from both local and national dealers and manufacturers.
“We want to use Living Green to portray the bicycle as a safe easy, fun, and cool multi-tasking tool,” Dorian explains. “The fashion show will feature everything from spandex-clad racers to a commuter going to work to someone running errands in street clothes.”
The models—actual cyclists—will include some notable Twin Citians. The 25 ensembles will show that you can use your bike as your primary mode of transportation while doing just about anything!
The Bicycle Alliance of Minnesota will provide safety and bike maintenance tips throughout the Expo. Bring your bike and meet at the intersection of Wright and Cosgrove avenues! Bike attractions at the Living Green Expo are presented in collaboration with the Bicycle Alliance of Minnesota and sponsored by Share the Road, Explore Minnesota Tourism, Minnesota Department of Health, and Nice Ride.
