STATEWIDE – June is Bike Month in Colorado and the highlight is next week’s Bike to Work Day on Wednesday, June 28, when Coloradans are encouraged to put their feet to the pedals and leave their motor vehicle at home.   

“We’ve been promoting Bike to Work Day for 26 years and it’s our way of educating the public about the benefits of commuting and traveling on a bike,” said Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) Bicycling and Pedestrian Coordinator Betsy Jacobsen.  “Bicycling events really begin ramping up in June and this is just one more way to promote a healthy alternative to driving.”

Cities, counties and other public and private entities also sponsor BTWD activities.

As one of the top Bicycling Friendly States* in the U.S., CDOT is doing its part to support bicycling for residents and tourists alike.  The Share the Road campaign is aimed at increasing awareness among motorists and bicyclists that all road users have a right and a responsibility to be courteous to one another and act safely, regardless of the mode. CDOT also administers the Safe Routes to School program.

As a multi-modal agency, CDOT maintains and continues to fund and add amenities that enhance safety and improves the cycling experience.

Bicycling also provides a number of other economic benefits.  In 2016, out-of-state visitors spent $185 million on bicycle activities and equipment, with Colorado households spending an average of $450 per year on bicycle equipment and events.  Overall, the economic and health impacts of biking and walking are nearly $4.8 billion -- through tourism, household spending, retail, manufacturing and health costs.  (Economic and Health Benefits Study, 2016).

Share the Road Tips

For Drivers

·  Give bicyclists at least three feet of space when passing: Even if it requires crossing the center line, if it is safe – or risk a ticket. 

·  Wait a few seconds: If you don’t have three feet to pass then wait until there is enough room to pass safely.

·  Take a brake: Reduce speed when encountering bicyclists.

·  Scan, then turn: Look for bicyclists before making turns and make sure the road is clear before proceeding.

·  Check your door:  Prior to getting out of a vehicle, look before opening your car door to avoid injuring any bicyclist on the road.

For Riders

·  Bicyclists must ride as far right as possible and with the flow of trafficSide-by-Side Rule: Ride no more than two abreast; move to single-file if riding two abreast impedes the flow of motorized traffic.

·  Ride Predictably: Scan the road, anticipate hazards, and communicate your moves to others.

·  Signal First: Use hand signals to alert nearby vehicles to turns or lane changes; and always call your pass when going around other bicyclists or pedestrians.

For more information on bicycling in Colorado, including on-line maps, please visit: https://www.codot.gov/programs/programs/bikeped or http://bicyclecolorado.org/