Bike Week kicks off in the UK tomorrow, Saturday 8 June, and runs until Sunday 16 June. It aims to raise awareness and encourage more people to try out cycling in their local area, whether that's commuting to work, riding to a friend’s house or taking the children to school.
According to the UK Department for Transport’s walking and cycling statistics, 5.3 million people (that’s 11.9 percent of the UK population) already cycle at least once a week.
With the challenges we’re currently facing in the UK, as well as other parts of the world — air pollution, poor physical and mental health, and traffic congestion — Bike Week aims to raise awareness of the most positive solution: active travel by bike.
There are plenty of ways to get involved, whether it’s sharing your experiences online or attending one of the many events planned around the country.
Pledge #7DaysofCycling for a chance to win a prize
As part of Bike Week there’s a 7-day challenge that anyone can take on, whether it’s choosing one day to try or diving headfirst into the full week, so why not spread the word to your family, friends and work colleagues?
There are also prizes to be won, including Cycle Surgery vouchers up to £500, a Velochampion prize bundle and tickets to the 2019 Cycle Show at the Birmingham NEC. To be in with a chance of winning, simply pledge to take part in the seven-day challenge, ride every day and share your experiences on social media with the hashtag #7DaysofCycling.
Here are seven daily themes to get you thinking about your cycling experiences:
- Sunday 9 June — enjoying the social side of cycling
- Monday 10 June — cycling to school and engaging children in cycling
- Tuesday 11 June — benefits a bike can have on mental health
- Wednesday 12 June — businesses boosting their cycle-friendliness
- Thursday 13 June — getting fit and healthy through cycling
- Friday 14 June — travelling from A-B by bike
- Saturday 15 June — favourite three-miles, and best short routes by bike
What if I’m not in the UK?
There are cycling awareness weeks, months and events all over the world, all year round, so if you’re not in the UK don’t feel left out!
Canada — Bike Month 2019, June
If you’re in Canada, you’re already in the midst of National Bike Month! There’s an array of events planned throughout the country, so make sure you get involved.
USA — Bike Month, May
National Bike Month in the USA was last month, and falls every year in May. Among the various events included is a designated Bike to Work Week, dedicated to encouraging more commuting by bike. Make a note, so you don’t miss out next year.
Australia — Bike Week, March
Australia also has a Bike Week, which has sadly been and gone this year, but you should definitely set yourself a reminder for March 2020. It’s a government initiative to raise the profile of cycling and its many benefits, and there are many events to take part in.
