April is the perfect time to enjoy the beautiful spring weather on two wheels. This month is Valley Bike Month, and whether you are a regular bike commuter or just an occasional rider, there are several events and specials that cyclists can take advantage of.
Bicycle riders set off from the parking lot at Park Central Mall and head toward downtown Phoenix as part of the annual Phoenix/Maricopa Bike to Work Day, which takes place this year from 7-9 a.m. on Wednesday, April 20 (photo courtesy of the city of Phoenix).
Enjoy a Community Bike Ride & Bike Rodeo on Saturday, April 16. The bicycle ride starts at 1 p.m. at Osborn Middle School, 1102 W. Highland Ave.; meet in the parking lot adjacent to 11th Avenue. The ride ends at Longview Community Center, 4040 N. 14th St. There will be a special Bike Rodeo event at Longview from 2-4 p.m.
The city of Phoenix Fire, Police and Street Transportation departments are teaming up to distribute helmets to young people, explain bicycle-related traffic laws, and conduct car seat safety checks. There also will be a bicycle rodeo and obstacle course to educate young people on safe riding techniques. Parents or guardians are encouraged to attend. Children are invited to bring their bikes and helmets. All events are free.
Valley bike riders also are invited to join in on Phoenix/Maricopa Bike to Work Day, 7-9 a.m. Wednesday, April 20. Check-in begins at 6:30 a.m. Join Phoenix City Council and Maricopa County officials, as well as other dignitaries at Park Central Mall, 3100 N. Central Ave., for a police escorted 3-mile ride to CityScape, 1 E. Washington St. This is a “green” event so all bicyclists are encouraged to bring their own water bottles. Water for refilling bottles will be available at Park Central and CityScape, no disposable bottles will be provided. There will be free T-shirts, prize drawings, and more. There also will be a free light breakfast for registered participants (while supplies last). There will be a free health & safety fair at CityScape. Pre-registration for the ride is required at: http://www.maricopa.gov/btw.
Phoenix Spokes People host a Bike Bazaar at the Downtown Phoenix Public Market, 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, April 23. A fun ride to the market, located at 14 E. Pierce St., will leave Steele Indian School Park, 300 E. Indian School Road, at 9 a.m. The market will feature bicycle wares, crafty bicycle folks, and bike goodness. Stop by the Bike Bazaar while you are out shopping for your fruits and vegetables. Celebrate Earth Day by eating, shopping and biking local. Visit www.phoenixspokespeople.org/events.
Other discounts and promotions for Valley Bike Month include:
- GR:D Bikes offers a discount during April Bike Month. The promo code is BIKEMONTH2016 and it’s good for 50-percent off a monthly membership during April. You’ll get 30 days of rides for only $7.50. Includes 60 minutes of usage each day. Visit www.grid bikes.com for details about how it works and the location of Grid Lock Stations and Stop and Shop racks.
- Happy hour pricing all day for bicycle riders at Spoke & Wheel Tavern, 8525 N. Central Ave. (ongoing)
- 10 percent off parts, accessories and café purchases at Trailhead Bike Café, 6825 N. 16th St.
- 10 percent off bike parts and accessories at Landis Cyclery, 712 W. Indian School Road.
- One free pastry at Urban Cookies Bakeshop, 4711 N. 7th St.
- One free doughnut with any coffee purchase at Rollover Doughnuts, 10 W. Vernon Ave.
- $1 off pitchers of beer at short Leash Sit…Stay, 110 E. Roosevelt St.
- 20 percent off any handcrafted drink at Nomad Café, 828 N. 2nd St.
- 20-percent off at Focaccia Fiorentina, 112 N. Central Ave., dine-in only
For more Valley Bike Month discounts and deals, visit: www.valley metro.org/campaigns_contests/valley_bike_month.
