Whether you’re a casual rider, a commuter or a cycling enthusiast, these nine activities are perfect for celebrating the year of the bike with some two-wheeled fun.
Cyclofemme
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Photo/Washington Area Bicyclist Association, flickr
Held every Mother's Day weekend around the globe, Cyclofemme is a worldwide celebration of women. Joining the movement is simple: Tag along on a self-led group ride—whether it's two friends or a peloton—and unite regardless of gender, age, bicycle preference or anything else. Don't know how to find a ride? Search Facebook for an event near you or visit Cyclofemme's page for the 2017 ride list.
Want to take it a step further? Donate to Cyclofemme's charitable cause—just $147 will provide a bike for a girl in Kenya and every dollar donated is doubled by a matching grant. Those interested in going all-in for this philanthropic endeavor may do so by fundraising on behalf of World Bicycling Relief. All you need to do is join a ride, raise some money and all funds raised for WBR will receive a one-to-one match.
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Your Next RideWorld Bicycle Relief
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WBR's objective is to mobilize people through the power of bicycles. The end goal? A world in which distance isn't a barrier for independence or livelihood—for anyone, anywhere. Since its founding in 2005, WBR has created programs that provide specially designed, locally assembled bikes for students, healthcare workers and entrepreneurs across Africa, South America and Southeast Asia.
How can you help? Donate to WBR or play a more active role in the movement by joining an event to raise awareness and fundraising for WBR. Want to do even more? Join the volunteer pool. Any time commitment is welcome.
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Your Next RideTeam In Training
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Photo/Jean-François Chénier, flickr
In 1988, 38 runners raised over $300,000 for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Since then, Team In Training has expanded to all endurance sports and become a leader in "sports training for charity."
Register to be a part of the team and not only will you play a part in finding cures for some of the most devastating diseases, but you'll also receive access to training coaches and staff members to help with fundraising support.
While cycling, running and triathlon are the biggest sports in the organization, you can also hike, climb or walk for charity. Not into the physical activity party but still want to get involved? Simply donate to Team In Training individually or on behalf of a participant.
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Your Next RideMS 150
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Photo/Scott Coultas, flickr
The National MS Society is the largest private funder of multiple sclerosis research in the world. The organization utilizes a fundraising cycling series to help spread the word and get people involved in riding for the cause. Did we mention it raises more money than any other cycling event for any other cause?
With nationwide rides, distances ranging from 15 to 150 miles and one- to multi-day events, there's something for everyone. And, of course, whether you ride or not, donations to the cause are always appreciated.
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Your Next RideDo a Charity Bike Ride
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There's plenty of rides that support causes all over the country and the world. Pick a cause and there's probably a ride for it—from the Climate Ride, which raises awareness about sustainability and other environmental causes, to Big Ride Across America, which benefits the American Lung Association.
But it doesn't have to be a big-name organization to make an impact. Maybe a local race supports an organization or research you're passionate about. As long as you're taking your passion for riding and using it to give back, it doesn't matter so much what you're doing as long as you're doing it!
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Your Next RideBecome a League of American Bicyclists Instructor
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The League of American Bicyclists' main goal is to increase the number of people who think of a bike as a vehicle—and ensure those riding them know how to do so safely and legally. If you want to help more people feel comfortable getting on a bike, why not become a League Cycling Instructor? LCIs are certified to teach Smart Cycling classes to children and adults. All you have to do is complete a three-day seminar focusing on bike safety and skills to provide increased comfort while riding.
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Your Next RideCommute to Work
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Why drive to work when you could bike? May 19 is National Bike to Work Day. Celebrate by hanging up the car keys, putting away your metro card and strapping on a helmet for your morning commute. Want to celebrate more than just one day? National Bike to Work Week extends from May 15-19 and May is National Bike Month!
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Your Next RideDo RAGBRAI
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Photo/John Edwards, flickr
The Des Moines Register's Annual Great Bicycle Race Across Iowa, now in its 45th year, is an annual seven-day trip across the Hawkeye State during the last full week of July. RAGBRA started in 1973 as a small group ride for the Register's columnists and friends and has now grown to include participants from all 50 states and multiple foreign countries. It's a great way to explore the Midwest while riding 468 miles atop not-necessarily-flat terrain.
Not up to seven days of riding? Register for a one-day pass or as a non-rider and follow along with the participants as a spectator.
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Your Next RideJoin a Local Advocacy Group
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Support cycling a little closer to home by joining your local advocacy group. Commit to promoting cycling in all its forms—from getting more people riding to fundraising for charities. Search Facebook for groups near you or check out USA Cycling's list of larger advocacy organizations.
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