Screen capture of virtual bike maintenance class.

We all know the past year has been a slog in many respects. Yet, this past year was also one in which many people discovered (or re-discovered) the joys of bicycling, whether for fun, exercise or as an easy way to get around and run short errands.

With safer-at-home orders in effect at times in many parts of the world, there was even a worldwide shortage of bikes as people bought up bikes of all types. And with gyms often closed, many people and families exercised by riding bikes on streets with decidedly less traffic.

Even with safer-at-home orders in effect, some bike activities are ongoing in our area.

The Bicycle Education Safety Training (BEST) program is offering online bike classes on a monthly basis. These instructional video classes cover a variety of topics, from bike basic maintenance (such as how to fix a flat tire) to how to ride safely as an individual or group. More information about upcoming virtual classes is available at Metro Bike’s Facebook page and it is possible to directly register through BEST Program Eventbrite page.

For those looking to get some exercise, another good option is to follow a self-guided rides from this bike event map. The rides provided are on streets that have favorable conditions for cyclists — and you can follow the ride at your own pace.

Metro Bike, too, is still providing bike share in many parts of Los Angeles County. Regular fare is just $1.75 for rides up to 30 minutes, and we are currently offering a special Refer-a-Friend promotion so current passholders have the opportunity to share the gift of Metro Bike Share (and reward themselves) this season. Active passholders can share their unique referral link and receive 2 additional weeks of bike share for each friend or family member they refer. New passholders referred to the program can get a 30-Day Pass for just $1.

1. Log into your account
2. On the left side of the screen select “Refer a Friend”
3. Copy the link to share via email or click on the buttons to share via Facebook or Twitter

On the policy front, Metro’s Recovery Task Force draft final report included two recommendations. The first is to repurpose the Open Streets Program that made CicLAvia and similar events possible and dedicate this program funding and efforts toward efforts that create permanent safer conditions for pedestrians and cyclists on streets. The second recommendation is to expand Metro Bike Share to more locations, especially within Equity Focus Communities (EFC).

To receive related and further information about active transportation via email, please sign up through this link.