Why go by car when you can go by bike?
That's the challenge advocacy group HUB Cycling is presenting commuters as it launches its annual fall Go By Bike event.
"Research show that there are countless benefits to encouraging commuting by bike at your workplace," said HUB's event manager Lisa Storey in a news release.
"Employees arrive happier, less stressed and tend to be more productive."
They're also saving money. A recent report by HUB found people can save up to $9,200 a year by using a bike as their main mode of transportation.
This year's celebration of getting around on two wheels is bigger than ever, spanning two weeks from Oct. 16 to 29.
During that time cyclists of all abilities and ardour can register their bike trips for chances to win prizes like a jacket from Arc'teryx, gift cards, a U-lock, tickets to Science World and even six hours to work on your bike at a community bike shop in Vancouver.
As well, HUB is also hosting a free educational webinar on Oct. 20 at 12 p.m. to offer tips for riding in the fall and winter seasons, when it’s darker longer and the weather might not be the most desirable for throwing a leg over your top tube.
Another, on Tuesday, Oct. 17 at 12 p.m., will be an introduction to E-biking.
Cyclists in the Tri-Cities will also be able to visit two of the 29 celebration stations across Metro Vancouver where they can exchange tips with other cyclists, grab a map of safe routes, enjoy a snack and get minor adjustments to their ride from an experienced bike mechanic.
On Oct. 17, a celebration station will be set up at the Burquitlam SkyTrain station from 4 to 6 p.m., and the next day it will be at the Lafarge Lake Douglas SkyTrain station, also from 4 to 6 p.m. Both locations are sponsored by the City of Coquitlam.
According to HUB, since its first Go By Bike event in 2007, the ranks of cycling commuters in Metro Vancouver have swelled to 170,000.
For more information, including registering your rides, go to HUB's special Go By Bike website.
