The City of Pensacola is observing May as National Bike Month, creating an opportunity for residents and visitors to celebrate cycling’s numerous benefits.
Why this matters: Pensacola recently earned recognition as a Bronze-level Bicycle Friendly Community from the League of American Bicyclists, acknowledging the city’s ongoing efforts to create a more bike-friendly environment.
- National Bike Month has been an annual May celebration since 1956, highlighting cycling’s positive impacts on health, the environment, community building, and affordable transportation. The City encourages everyone to explore Pensacola on two wheels, regardless of their cycling experience level.
Local Cycling Groups Lead the Way
For those looking to join organized cycling activities, Pensacola’s bicycle clubs offer excellent starting points. Two prominent groups—the West Florida Wheelmen and Bike Pensacola—have scheduled special rides for this month’s celebration:
Bike Pensacola – Slow Ride
- May 9 at 6 p.m.
- Alabama Square
West Florida Wheelmen – Ride of Silence
- May 21 at 5:15 p.m.
- Pensacola State College
Essential Safety Tips for Cyclists
As part of National Bike Month, the City of Pensacola is sharing important cycling safety guidelines:
- Helmet Protection: Always wear a properly fitted helmet to protect your head in case of accidents.
- Visibility Matters: Make yourself visible to motorists by wearing bright or reflective clothing. Use white front lights and red rear lights, especially during low-light conditions at dawn, dusk, or night.
- Respect Traffic Laws: Follow all traffic signals, signs, and lane markings. Always ride with—not against—traffic flow.
- Signal Your Intentions: Use standard hand signals to clearly indicate when you plan to turn or stop.
- Stay Alert: Maintain awareness of traffic, pedestrians, and potential road hazards. Avoid distractions like using your phone while riding.
- Bicycle Maintenance: Regularly check that your brakes function properly, tires are adequately inflated, and your chain is well-lubricated.
- Route Planning: Choose routes appropriate for your skill level, preferably utilizing designated bike lanes or paths when available.
Further Resources
For those interested in additional cycling safety information, instructional videos are available on the League of American Bicyclists website.
