In 2018, the United Nations (UN) General Assembly declared 3 June World Bicycle Day. World Bicycle Day promotes the health, economic, and environmental benefits of cycling.
The health benefits of biking are numerous. These include improved weight management, muscular strength, cardiovascular health, and mental well-being. Cycling makes education, healthcare, and other social services more accessible to vulnerable populations. It also helps improve air quality by reducing global carbon emissions.
Here is everything you need to know about World Bicycle Day and how to celebrate.
History of World Bicycle Day
There are many reasons the UN established World Bicycle Day. One was to pay tribute to the bicycle, to celebrate its more than 200-year history as a viable mode of transportation. The other was to advocate for cycling as a means to achieve previous internationally agreed Sustainable Development Goals. For example, the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, a roadmap of 17 goals and 169 targets toward a better future for the people and the planet.
According to the resolution adopted by the General Assembly on 12 April 2018, World Bicycle Day acknowledges: “… the uniqueness, longevity and versatility of the bicycle, which has been in use for two centuries, and that it is a simple, affordable, reliable, clean and environmentally fit sustainable means of transportation, fostering environmental stewardship and health.”
Since 2018, World Bicycle Day has attracted millions of participants worldwide. These include individuals, non-profit organizations, and local council members.
Why Celebrate the Bicycle?
Ever since German Baron Karl von Drais invented the velocipede in 1817, we have come a long way. The bicycle is one of the most reliable, sustainable, versatile, and efficient modes of urban transportation.
Cycling is an excellent form of physical activity. It can help improve your cardiovascular health and muscle strength and reduce the risk of cancer and diabetes diagnosis. Cycling has also been shown to improve mental well-being. A study by the YMCA found that people with a physically active lifestyle had a well-being score 32 percent higher than inactive individuals.
Aside from the obvious health benefits, there are other advantages to cycling. It makes it easier for vulnerable populations to access healthcare, education, and social services. Cities worldwide are introducing plans to make cycling more accessible. Berlin, Germany, is building a cycle superhighway stretching across the city. Meanwhile Montreal, Canada, is adding over 600 kilometres of bike paths along their roads.
How to Celebrate World Bicycle Day
Whether you are a daily rider or a weekend warrior, there are many ways to celebrate World Bicycle Day. The great thing about World Bike Day is that you can celebrate it as little or as much as you wish. Any way you decide to advocate for cycling is a net positive for the day.
Do you have to work but still want to be part of the event? You could ride to work instead of driving or taking public transport. If riding is already part of your daily ritual, you could encourage a few classmates or co-workers to come along for the ride.
Here are a few ways to celebrate World Bicycle Day:
Join a Group Ride
Turn cycling into a social activity by joining a group ride. Meet up with a few friends and cycle around your local area. Choose a meeting spot, map out your route, and go forth. You could conclude the trip with an activity, such as lunch at a café or a game of basketball. Be sure to dress appropriately for the weather and time of day, too.
Want to meet up with an established group of cycling enthusiasts? Join an online group to find your crowd. The Facebook Heybike Fans Group has over 17.3k members from around the world. Make yourself known and remember to always be respectful and courteous to group members.
Organize a Family Bike Day
Prepare a family bike day with your loved ones, including your partner and children. Map out a route in your local area. Incorporate well-maintained bike paths, walkways, and easily identifiable landmarks into your journey.
If riding with small children, try to avoid difficult routes with uneven terrain or steep inclines. Alternatively, encourage walking during more challenging sections. Of course, bring beverages and light snacks for nourishment.
Join a Bicycle Event
Does your local council have planned events for World Bicycle Day? Many parts of the United States have events to celebrate World Bicycle Day. These events often incorporate multiple activities, such as live performances and competitions. Search online and attend any events in your local area.
Fix Up an Old Bike
Take the opportunity to repair an old bike collecting dust at home. Invest in high-quality equipment and brush up on your DIY maintenance skills. Check the tire pressure, fix any punctures, adjust the suspension, adjust the brakes, clean the frame, and check the chain for wear. If you ride an electric bike, recharge the battery and update any software connected to the ebike.
Organize a Bike Safety Class
Bike safety is essential to the health and well-being of every rider. If you already have a group you ride with, consider organizing a session dedicated to bike safety. You can cover topics like road rules for cyclers, safety equipment, hazard awareness, and keeping your bicycle secure.
Watch Cycling Films
Some of the most celebrated movies are either about cycling or incorporate cycling into their themes.
Tim Burton’s cult classic Pee-wee’s Big Adventure is about Pee-wee Herman going on an adventure to reclaim his stolen bicycle. Hell on Wheels is a 2003 documentary about the 100th anniversary of the Tour de France. The movie is told from the perspective of former professional road cyclist Erik Zabel and Team Telekom.
Prepare a movie playlist on your favorite streaming services and organize a watch-along with your friends!
Gift a Bike
What better way to celebrate World Biking Day than to give the gift of cycling? Whether you are purchasing for a close friend or loved one, an electric bike is the perfect gift idea for the casual or enthusiastic rider.
You can choose from a wide range of electric bike options at Heybike. These include fat tire electric bikes for off-roading and folding electric bikes for casual riding and easy storage. You can also enhance their riding experience with accessories. For example foldable locks, baskets, phone mounts, and heaps more.
Celebrating World Bicycle Day
World Bicycle Day is the perfect time of the year to get outdoors, get active, and socialize with friends and family.
No matter how you wish to celebrate this special day, incorporate cycling into your day in a way that reflects your lifestyle. Whether you organize a group ride or stay at home to fix up your old two-wheeler, the choice is yours!
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