By: Lorenza Zebell
Q: I’d like to start biking to work. Where do I start?
A: I’m so glad you’re interested in bike commuting to work. Our region is known as a great place to bike – we’re lucky to have an extensive network of beautiful bike lanes, trails, and bike boulevards. Biking is a practical and eco-friendly means of commuting that promotes healthy living, reduces traffic, and can even foster a sense of community at your workplace.
This year, June 1-8 is Madison Bike Week. Celebrate by biking to work, on errands, and for fun. You can even join one of the many gatherings and bike rides across the city.
Dane County has over 100 miles of shared-use bike trails that connect communities, parks and natural resource areas. Commuters can enjoy the Capital City State Trail, which stretches over 17 miles from Madison to Fitchburg, the Southwest Commuter Path, and more. Find your preferred bike route in Dane County using the free RoundTrip tool. You can also use RoundTrip to connect with bike buddies, access regional commuter incentives, and track your personal savings from not using your car. Learn about their program through its sustainability story.
If you’re worried about being stuck in an emergency without your car, you can sign up for the Dane County Emergency Ride Home program, which makes it easier for you to bike without worrying about how you will get home in case of emergency.
The city’s bike-share program, BCycle, provides access to electric-assist bikes at various stations. It’s a great way to get a boost for your commute to the office without needing to commit to purchasing your own electric bike. You can even check out a 7-day BCycle pass and helmet through the Madison Public Library.
And don’t forget to get a bike benefits sticker for your helmet to get discounts and freebies at the 189 bike benefits locations in Madison like the Willy Street Coop who offers 5% off Monday through Friday and Ian’s Pizza who offers a dollar off a slice.
Biking to work offers many benefits for individuals and the community. For starters, it’s a way to incorporate physical activity into daily routines instead of spending rush hour stuck in traffic. Studies consistently show that regular physical activity, such as biking, contributes to improved heart health, reduced stress, and enhanced overall well-being. A 2010 study showed if 20% of Madison commuters biked to work, it would save 16,687 tons of carbon dioxide emissions.
Remember to always wear a helmet and have fun riding!