May is National Bike Month, and the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) joins with many communities and groups across the country in celebrating this annual event. Whether it’s to reach a destination, get some exercise, or just for fun, CTDOT encourages members of the public to get outside and ride and share their cycling experiences on social media.
It’s as easy as one, two, three - so get outside and ride!
- Follow CTDOT on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram and join the BikeWalkCT Facebook Community.
- Ride to a favorite coffee shop, hardware store, bike shop, restaurant, or local park or attraction.
- Take a photo or short video highlighting a favorite place to ride and share it on social media using the hashtags #BikePedCT2022, #BikeThere, and #BikeMonth. Ride often and share!
“Long rides across town, an adventure on a favorite trail, or a quick trip around the block are many ways to celebrate and enjoy National Bike Month. Cycling can be fun, good for a person’s health, and is a sustainable and green mode of transportation,” CTDOT Commissioner Joseph Giulietti said. “For both seasoned riders and those who haven’t pedaled in a while, please remember the rules of the road. Be safe by wearing a helmet, obeying traffic signals, and yielding at crosswalks. Be visible by wearing reflective clothing or gear and using hand signals. Stay safe and have fun!”
Bicycles are considered a vehicle, and therefore the same rules apply. Motorists should look for bicyclists and be courteous in passing and turning. For pedestrian and bicycle laws, facts, and tips, visit WatchForMeCT.org.
Bicycling can also be incorporated into a commute to work. If someone is within a couple of miles from work, they can jump on and ride. If a person is farther away, they can combine bicycling with other modes of public transportation. All CTtransit buses have bike racks to allow riders to bring a bike along. Bike policies can vary on Hartford Line, Shore Line East, and Metro-North New Haven Line, but bicycles are generally permitted on trains. People can also combine carpooling with a bike housed at work to give more flexibility during the day.
For more information on incorporating transit into a commute, visit CTrides.com.