May is Bike Month around the US and world, and theoretically there are more things happening than usual. Yet, every month is bicycle-centric for me and thousands of bike riders in Austin, so it’s not that noticeable. But here are a few of the great events going on in case you’re in town and want to get involved. If not in Austin, check out your local bike group, shop or government transportation office to see if they have anything going. Or, start your own event!

Bikes Across Borders Art Auction – May 4, 7-10 pm

“Bicycle art aficionados descend for a silent auction featuring local bike art, Yes Ma’am Brass Band, a raffle, libations and more. Local collective departs to donate bikes to indigenous communities in Monterrey, México on May 17th, continuing the tradition of annual migration since 2000. Bring cash, bid high and bid often!”

The event is Saturday, May 4, 7 pm- 10 pm at Treasure City Thrift, 2142 E. 7th St. The ride itself leaves on May 17th. I had hoped to go but inquired too late and am not in a position to do so — I’m sitting down at a desk, not on a bicycle! Maybe next year. For more information, check out this link, which goes to their Facebook site: Bikes Across Borders Art Auction

International Ride of Silence Day

The 2018 Ride of Silence Summary said there were:

• 373 Locations World Wide
• 47 U.S. States
• 20 Countries
• 7 Continents
• 0 Words Spoken
• A Million Powerful Memories

We’ve already had two of these rides this year, one forAnthony John Diaz and the other for Jessica Saathoff. This ride is the annual one being held simultaneously around the world. Social Cycling Austin has taken up the mantle and is sponsoring this, and I’m helping promote it a little bit.

Basically we gather and ride around a while to remember those lost to traffic violence. It’s a powerful experience that hopefully draws attention to the cause of creating better infrastructure and safer conditions for bicyclists. It will be held May 15 at 6:30 pm at the Pfluger Bridge over Town Lake near Lamar Blvd. Helmets and lights are strongly encouraged. For more, see the Ride of Silence website.

Bike to Work Day – May 17, all day

Sponsored by Bike Austin, this is a day to encourage people to forego driving their cars to their jobs and biking instead. From their site:

The mission of Bike To Work Day is to attract new bicyclists to commuting while rewarding those who already use their bikes to commute. Commuters improve our community by decreasing traffic congestion and reducing air pollution. Cycling commuters also arrive at work in better health and more alert.

#B2WDAustin

This year we will celebrate the Bike After Work Party with music by Chulita Vinyl Club, treats from Gemelli Gelato, and delicious beverages at Cheer Up Charlie’s, 5-8pm! Pick up a Bicycle Passport at any morning fueling station and collect stamps at each subsequent station you visit. Your passport gets you free access to the Party, and each stamp you collect enters you into a door prize drawing, featuring great prizes from our SPONSORS!”

More from the website:

“Kick-start your Friday fun and join us for B2WD 2019! Bike Austin knows how to throw a good party and this year we have over 40 FUELING STATIONS with free coffee, snacks, and swag! Or join one of the Ghisallo Cycling Initiative‘s leader-led Bike Trains, stop at a music-centric fueling station, or enjoy the festivities at City Hall. There will be great vendors, free Cuvee Coffee and tacos and a photo booth by Party Favor Photo.

Real Ale Ride – May 18, 7:30 am, Blanco, Texas

This is a fundraising ride sponsored by Bicycle Sport Shop and Real Ale Brewing Company. The tag line is “Up the hills and down the beers!” Clever. From their site:

“The Real Ale Ride helps to support Blanco and Austin nonprofits. Beneficiaries of the 2019 ride are The Friends of Blanco State Park, The Trail Foundation, The Hill Country Conservancy, and Bike Austin.

The Real Ale Ride is Bicycle Sport Shop’s most popular event rolling through the scenic hills of Blanco, TX on Saturday, May 18, 2019. It’s a ride for all cyclists, with distances of 15, 30, 50, 65, and 80 miles to choose from. Routes are fully supported and they all end at Real Ale Brewing Company for a post-ride celebration with local beer, music, and food trucks.”

To register, go to this link.

Well, there you have it! May the Fourth (Force) of Bicycling be with you!

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