Courtesy of KBO Bike
Minnesota is already known as a bike-friendly state, with miles and miles of trails, relatively well-funded urban cycling infrastructure, and a culture that prioritizes outdoor adventures. And sometimes, with so much attention on cycling as recreation, the day-to-day use of cycling as transportation can be a little overlooked.
Not this week. This week is Bike to Work Week, a national initiative that culminates in Bike to Work Day on Friday, May 15. Organizations around the state are celebrating the two-wheeled commute with special events—take a peek at our list of highlights below.
And many employers are also hosting special events and incentives for cyclists this week; check with your workplace to see what’s planned.
Bike to Work Day Events
Anoka County Bike to Work Day, Various Locations
Anoka County Commute Solutions is providing event planning help, swag bags, and other resources to county workplaces that sign up for its Bike to Work Week program. Last year, almost 250 cyclists participated in the annual event at more than 20 businesses.
Bike to Work Day, Minneapolis
The City of Minneapolis hosts a downtown celebration starting at 7 a.m. on May 15, with free snacks and giveaways and speeches from local leaders. Government Center Plaza, Minneapolis
Pancakes & Punk Rock, Minneapolis
Join fellow commuters at the Martin Olav Sabo Bridge in Minneapolis for free pancakes on May 15, starting at 7:30 a.m. while supplies last. Martin Olav Sabo Bridge, Minneapolis
Bike to Work Day, Mankato
Greater Mankato Bike & Walk Advocates partner with the Region Nine Development Commission to offer a free community event at 8 a.m. on May 15 that will feature coffee, a tire-change competition, a bike show and tell, and free tune-ups from Key City Bikes. Civic Center Plaza, Mankato
Try the Barnes Dance Intersection, Minneapolis
Not an event, per se, but this relatively new “Barnes’ Dance” structure on the southeast side of Bde Maka Ska in Minneapolis allows walkers and bicyclists to legally cross the intersection diagonally, moving commuters more efficiently. West 36th Street and Richfield Road, Minneapolis
Extra credit: Elevate your cycling experience with our editor’s picks for some cool bike gear.
