Thurston County Bicycle Commuter Contest

Safely Navigating Storm Debris on Your Bike

2012-02-01T09:59:00.000-08:00

Here in Thurston County, we're still cleaning up from the snow and ice storm that broke many trees and left a lot of debris on our roads. Many bike lanes and road shoulers in the area still have a lot of sand and gravel and smaller tree debris covering them in certain places. Here are a few tips to safely ride your bike in these conditions:

Scan ahead: Be extra aware of potential road hazards ahead of you, plus vehicles approaching from behind. This will give you time to plan a course of action. Decide whether to enter the traffic lane to go around the debris, or wait until car traffic passes.
Traffic: If there is a long section of shoulder or bike lane that is unsafe to ride on due to debris, ride in the traffic lane, as far to the right as is safe. Ride straight and predictably, and signal if you plan to stop or turn. Remember you are a vehicle on the road and have all the same rights and responsibilities as other road users.
Traction: Riding on sand and gravel is a little like riding on ice- traction is reduced and can be unpredictable. Remember when changing speed or direction, to move smoothly and slowly. Give yourself more room to stop, and take corners slower. Wider, lower pressure tires can help on sand and gravel by creating a larger "contact patch" so that your tire is not rolling over the top of each little rock, but compressing around it and staying in contact with the road.
BE VISIBLE! At this time of year, it is often dark, rainy or foggy, and visibility is limited. Many drivers are simply not watching for bikes on the road, especially in the dark. Even an attentive driver may have difficulty seeing a cyclist in the dark. Wear bright and/or reflective clothing (or accessories like a reflective vest, belt or leg/arm band), and have bright, well-aimed lights on your bike. A headlight that is bright enough to see ahead of you can be expensive, but so worth it if they save you from encountering debris on the road that could cause a fall.
Beware of sticks from tree branches on the road. If you must ride over a stick, try to hit the middle of it. Hitting the end of a stick can couse it to flip into your spokes, which can cause bad damage to your wheel at best, and a nasty crash at worst. I have seen this happen.
Eye protection: Road debris gets airborn, and will get in your eyes without some kind of eye protection. Inexpensive safety glasses from the hardware store can do the job, and even come in stylish shapes these days. If you must be super-stylie, your local bike shop has the goods.

Ride safe and have fun- I look forward to seeing your headlight coming my way. If you hear a bike bell ring, it could be me!

Winter Cycling Tips

2012-01-25T12:47:00.000-08:00

We've had some requests for information on how to prepare for and successfully navigate commuting by bike in the winter. We are fortunate in our area to be able to ride almost all year round. I have compiled a few thoughts and tips on the subject, including some specific to the kind of weather we've been having.

In the longer term, an excellent source of information on bicycle commuting, including inclement weather tips is the WSDOT Bicycle Commute Guide, by Larry Leveen, of OlyBikes. It is available online (also in a print-friendly version), and will be available in print sometime this spring.

WINTER BICYCLE COMMUTING

Commuting by bicycle in inclement weather, especially in the winter, requires a bit more commitment, preparation, care and attention, but also offers its own rewards. Breathe the fresh outside air while staying fit and healthy year round. Feel the comeraderie when you see another intrepid winter commuter! Save money on gas and car repairs. Be good to the planet and your community by reducing your carbon footprint and reducing traffic congestion. Feel the satisfaction of knowing you got there on your own steam...

Depending on the distance and conditions of your commute:

There may be some added expenses for winter cycling gear, but these will soon pay for themselves in money saved on gas and maintenance for a car.

Decide if it's safe to ride: There are some days when it is just really dangerous to ride a bike. Rain, or a spot of black ice here and there is one thing, but rutted snow and ice everywhere, combined with inexperienced drivers and ill-equipped vehicles on the road is a recipe for disaster. The safest way to travel on days like that around here is by bus!
Be Visible: Wear bright colors (light colors at night) with reflective trim or a reflective vest or sash. Mount reliable, bright lights on the front and rear of your bike. The front light should be a steady white beam (you can augment this with a second white flashing light for added visibility). The rear light should be a red steady or flashing tail light. Washington State law requires a white front light and a red rear reflector, at minimum. I ride with two front and two rear lights, for maximum visibility and in case one light malfunctions or runs out of battery power. Mount your lights securely and properly! They should be aimed close to level (the beam shining paralell to the ground) LED lights are bright, but very directional. If they are aimed away form drivers' eyes (up or down), they will be MUCH less effective. Make sure you charge your batteries regularly- make a habit of it so you don't forget.
Ride Defensively: For complete information on safe cycling techniques, check out the WSDOT Bicycle Commute Guide, take an Urban Cycling class, join and go on skills rides with the Capitol Bicycling Club and educate yourself by asking other cyclists and your bike shop. Also check out the other links on this blog. In a nutshell: In inclement weather and darkness, it is even more important to ride defensively. OBEY ALL TRAFFIC LAWS- you are a vehicle on the road and have all the same rights and responsibilities as if you were in a car. Ride slower, watch the road and traffic attentively, give yourself more time to stop (brakes don't work as well when wet), assume drivers don't see you and ride predictably. Get to know your route and the roads you ride on: remember the static hazards such as potholes and drain grates. Learn where the problem intersections are, and where there are obstructions to your sightlines or those of drivers. Pay attention to how long it takes for traffic lights to change. All these things will help you when it is dark and raining, and you are tired after a day at work.
Dress for the weather: Unless you have a very short commute, it pays to have good rain gear. This means a waterproof, breatheable cycling-specific rain jacket, and either winter cycling tights or waterproof, breatheable rain pants. Wear layers, so you can stop and peel off a layer or add one, according to conditions. Wear eye protection- there is more debris on the road in the winter, and you don't want it flying into your eyes. Good gloves keep you warm and protect your hands in the event of a fall. Your local bike shop has everything you need to equip yourself with cycling clothes and other gear.
Equip your bike: Lights as mentioned above, followed by fenders and a luggage rack, are the most important equipment for winter commuting. Fenders should be full-coverage, good-quality, properly mounted ones from your bike shop. In my humble opinion, "shorty" or clip-on fenders that only cover part of your wheel are a pointless encumberance of your bike, guaranteed only to frustrate you or cause a hazard by twisting sideways and catching on something. Racks, baskets or carriers should be sturdy and properly mounted. A pair of waterproof panniers or buckets will make you happy in the rain. Be careful and attentive when using "bungee" or stretch cords to attach a load- they can get loose and whack you painfully, or get caught in your spokes if not well-secured. For a more worry-free commute, get some good puncture-resistant tires (Continental, Schwalbe, Panaracer,etc) and keep them inflated properly. Another good habit: pump up your tires once a week. Some bicycles are more adaptable than others to winter riding. Make sure your bike has clearance for fenders and wider tires and mounting points for racks and fenders. If not, and if you are serious about year-round cycling, consider a second bike for winter. You can go all-out at your bike shop (they will advise you what to buy) or you can buy a used bike and fix it up for winter commuting. An older mountain bike or touring bike can make an excellent commuter- just make sure it is a good brand, not a department-store bike. If possible, take it to your bike shop before purchase to see if it can be adapted to your needs.

If you have specific questions about commuting by bike in the winter, your local bike shop will be a great resource. Also feel free to contact me during weekday work hours at 705-5874, or anytime at dgreen"at"intercitytransit.com Happy, safe cycling!

The bus is a great option in this weather!

2012-01-17T11:41:00.000-08:00

Riding Intercity Transit in the Snow

...and if you happen to be stuck in the snow with your bike, you can always put it on the rack on the front of the bus to get home!

Bike Shop Profiles coming soon....

2012-01-11T15:51:00.000-08:00

We have posted Commuter Profiles for the last few years, with a picture and some details about the featured commuter's bike, commute routines, how they adapt to inclement weather, etc. This year we'll add profiles of the bike shops in town who are sponsors of the BCC- in part to thank them for their HUGE contribution to the continued success of the BCC, and to inform you of their locations, services, brands, hours and specialties. Stay tuned for the first profile in the next week or so!

Winter: A great time to get your bike tuned up!

2012-01-10T10:57:00.000-08:00

Where is your bike right now? Stored away for the winter? Parked outside your house or workplace in the elements? Waiting patiently for better weather? Carrying you reliably through the rainy season?

Wherever your bike is and whether you are riding through the winter or not, chances are it could use a little TLC. The Olympia area is lucky to have a nice choice of great bike shops, well distributed around town.

Now is a great time to take your bike in to your Local Bike Shop for a tune up, and to install any winter riding accessories you may need, like fenders and lights. The bike shops are less busy at this time of year, which means your bike will be ready quicker, and the shop staff will be extra happy to see you!

Most likely your Local Bike Shop is a generous sponsor of the Bicycle Commuter Contest, for which we are very grateful. When you take your bike in, tell them Duncan sent you, and thanks from the BCC!

Yawn, Stretch... the 25th BCC is waking up!

2012-01-09T09:04:00.000-08:00

Good morning and Happy 2012! The office of the Thurston County Bicycle Commuter Contest is officially open for the 25th Anniversary BCC.
We'll be dusting off our files, opening up our databases, planning and strategizing, conjuring slogans and logos, and generally conspiring to present the best Bicycle Commmuter Contest ever! Of course it is really our participants who make the BCC the great event that it is and has been for the past 24 years. We're looking forward to being in touch with YOU, our valued participants, sponsors and volunteers! We'll do our best to encourage and support you in your choice to bike instead of drive, and to reward you in May with tons of great coupons, prizes and events. See you on the road!

Chehalis Western Trail - Bridging the Gap-Phase 3 Open House Design Review

2011-07-12T12:33:00.000-07:00

When: Wednesday, July 20 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.

Where: Thurston Regional Planning Council, Room A

2424 Heritage Ct SW, Olympia 98502

(served by Intercity Transit Routes 43 and 44)

Thurston County Public Works invites trail users and interested

stakeholders to an open house meeting to review the design for

the final segment of the “Bridging the Gap” project (phase 3) of

the Chehalis Western Trail.

Come and learn about the trail’s alignment, structures, amentiies,

connectivity, project timeline, and next steps.

For more information contact:

Dale Rancour, County Engineer

360-786-5134

rancoud@co.thurston.wa.us

Can Monarch Sculpture Park Be Saved?

2011-07-05T09:46:00.000-07:00

We were saddened to read in the paper recently that the Monarch Sculpture Park would soon close due to the owner's financial and health challenges. Monarch Sculpture Park is an non-profit arts organization about halfway to Yelm along the Chehalis-Western multi-use trail that many Thurston County cyclists know well. They have been hosting local and international sculptors for about 15 years, and providing scholarships, residencies and other programs to artists when funds are available. The park is scheduled to close later this month, but apparently there is a movement afoot to try to save the Monarch Sculpture Park. There will be a meeting this Thursday at:

Thurston County Courthouse
http://www.co.thurston.wa.us/directions.htm
Building 1, room 280
This is the building on the left, adjacent to the parking lot. Come in the closest glass door, and go up the staircase. The room is near the top of the stairs.

4 PM Thursday, July 7.

The Woodland Trail Greenway Assn. will discuss this and other trail topics at their monthly meeting the same evening, at 6 PM, Urban Onion restaurant.

To find out more, contact Jack Horton at the Woodland Trail Greenway Association or email info"at"woodlandtrail.org

BCC 2011 Final Overall Results

2011-07-01T14:37:00.000-07:00

It's a wrap! Bicycle Commuter Contest 2011 is over and on the shelf. Thanks SO much everyone- Sponsors, Volunteers, Team Captains, Employee Transportation Coordinators, BCC Ambassadors, Friends, and most of all, Participants! We had a great year this year in spite of the COLD, wet April and May. May had nearly double the normal rainfall and temperatures well below normal. Still, 1452 people signed up for the BCC.
Now that I have had a chance to add in the late mileage logs and correct a glaring error I made calculating the total miles (I forgot to subtract only HALF the Bike To Work Day Miles), I can share our overall totals which break several all-time records for the BCC!

Registrants: 1452
Mileage Logs Returned: 1114 (all-time record)
Percent of riders who returned logs: 76% (all-time record)
Total Miles Ridden: 110,184 (all-time record)
Average Miles per rider: 104
Days Ridden: 13,947 (all-time record)
Avg. Days Ridden: 12.5

Congratulations everyone and have a great summer!

SEE the BCC RESULTS PAGES

2011-06-27T12:23:00.000-07:00

I have posted the standings of all the BCC teams that returned more than one mileage log on the "2011 BCC Results" Page- click the link in the list of "Pages" at top right of blog. Top Individual results are also now available on their own pages, one for Junior and Youth categories, and one each for the Adult and Senior categories. Remember that everybody wins in the Bicycle Commuter Contest! No matter how much or little you rode in May, you contributed to our total, and you helped improve your own health and that of our community and our planet. We hope you found the BCC a rewarding and motivating event, and that you will not only come back next year, but bring a friend!

Wear your oldest BCC t-shirt to the awards

2011-06-25T05:39:00.001-07:00

Maybe you'll win the "Oldest T-shirt Contest"!
TODAY, 9:30 am, Olympia Farmers Market stage.

THURSTON HERE TO THERE Winners!

2011-06-25T05:29:00.000-07:00

2011 Bicycle Commuter Contest THURSTON HERE TO THERE Special Promotion Winners Announced!

Thurston Regional Planning Council (TRPC) teamed with Intercity Transit to host a special promotion for contest participants who made bike trips starting or ending in Tumwater and South Thurston County communities. Riders who submitted a copy of their mileage log to TRPC were eligible for a special prize.

Congratulations to the 26 winners—your gift is in the mail!

Jed B.	Ron F.	Kirsty F.
Ryan C.	Allison H.	Maria N.
Linda T.	Quinn H.	Amy H.
Margaret H.	Carol J.	Mike L.
Michael H.	Dewey W.	Rick G.
Allen H.	Daniel H.	Keri J.
Marie H.	Jeff R.	Alison F.
Gary R.	Lucy W.	Bill T.
Janine L.	Daniel H.

TRPC developed Thurston Here to There as a coordinated set of activities with one goal – to improve access to travel options for the people who live, work, play, or go to school in Bucoda, Rainier, Tenino, Tumwater and Yelm.

Thurston Here to There promotes cycling as a sustainable transportation choice because it helps our communities to:

Reduce energy demands
Lower transportation costs
Reduce congestion – including around schools – improving safety at the same time
Enhance the sense of community
Respond to challenges such as environmental concerns, sustainability, rising fuel costs, and the increase in childhood obesity

For more information about Thurston Here To There, visit www.trpc.org. and see their page on this blog, in the list of pages at the top right of the blog.

Happy Summer!

2011-06-21T09:33:00.000-07:00

Summer officially begins at 10:16 this morning, and at solar noon today, the sun will be at its highest point of the year. Today is the longest day (in terms of daylight) of 2011. Happy summer, and happy practical cycling!

We are madly crunching numbers and organizing prizes, getting ready for the BCC Awards Ceremony this Saturday at the Olympia Farmers Market at 9:30 am. Come on down and join the fun!

Scene From the Saddle

2011-06-16T15:23:00.000-07:00

More guerilla knitting: Fire Hydrant Cozy- photo by Erin Scheel

Bicycle Commuter Contest Awards and Prizes

2011-06-15T16:43:00.000-07:00

Saturday, June 25, 9:30 am - Olympia Farmers Market

BCC Prize Category Winners Announced and Prizes Awarded*
Bicycle Prize Drawing Winners Announced and Bikes Awarded*
On-The-Spot Random Prize Drawings for those present
Compete in the "Oldest BCC t-shirt" contest

We have more prizes than ever this year, and more ways to win! Over 200 BCC participants will win prizes from our awesome sponsors. Come on down even if you don't think you rode enough to win a prize- you might win a random drawing!

*Need not be present to win- winners can choose to collect prizes at Intercity Transit Administrative Offices

Here are some of the bikes we'll be awarding at our Award Ceremony:

Raleigh Cadent FT-1

New Belgium Cruiser

Trek Allant

BCC 2011 Preliminary Results

2011-06-13T16:18:00.000-07:00

Yay, the data is in, and 2011 was a great year for the Bicycle Commuter Contest!!

1452 people registered
1101 or (76%) returned mileage logs, our highest return ever, in actual numbers or percentage.
Those of us who recorded our miles collectively logged 103,046 miles on 13,770 rider-days.
Average miles per month, per rider: 93.5
Average days ridden, per rider: 12.5
512 participants were new to the BCC this year.
646 participants rode their bikes 10 days or more during May

We'll have more numbers soon, and we'll be holding our random drawings for four new bikes and other goodies in the next coupole of days. Wednesday is coupon-envelope-stuffing day, so participants who returned their mileage logs will start seeing their coupons in the mail by late this week.

Urban Cycling Class: this Saturday!

2011-06-08T15:38:00.000-07:00

Want to learn how to confidently ride in traffic?

Take the Capitol Bicycling Club’s Urban Cycling class

on Saturday, June 11^th from 9AM – 3PM and learn:

How to outfit yourself and your bike
How to navigate intersections and ride comfortably with traffic
Minor bike up-keeping and flat tire repair

Classes end with an on-bike lesson and group ride through urban downtown practicing all that is learned. Instructors are League of American Bicyclist Certified Instructors. Bike in good working order and helmet required. $35, includes materials. To register or for more information visit www.decidetoride.org

Questions? Contact:

Kerry Tarullo Associate Planner

Public Works Transportation
City of Olympia
360.753.8575

You can still return your mileage log- PLEASE DO!!

2011-06-07T09:42:00.000-07:00

Many thanks to those of you who have already returned your mileage logs. We'll mail out your reward coupons next week.

The "official" deadline for returning your mileage log was yesterday, but we still want your mileage log! Here's the deal: we'll be holding random drawings for the FOUR new bikes we have to give away- early next week. We are madly entering data from the hundreds of mileage logs already returned, but if you get your mileage log in to us this week, there is still a pretty good chance your name will make it into the "hat" for the bike drawings.

Even if you don't need or want a new bike, there are other random prizes, and lots of great coupons for discounts and free stuff- PLUS:
Returning your mileage log is a very important part of participating in the BCC!

You may think that just signing up is a good enough way to support the BCC, and it is true that the number of registrants is valuable. But even more valuable is the information you send in with your mileage log, and the verification that you are actually out there riding your bike for transportation. The number of people who participate in the BCC is an indicator of how many practical cyclists are out there on our streets, which is important to know for future infrastructure development. We also want to show our community and the world that practical cycling works! The level of follow-through is also an indicator of whether the BCC is working the way it should be.

Thanks for taking a little time out of your day to return your BCC Mileage Log!

BCC Mini-Contest # 3: Where is This?

2011-06-03T11:54:00.000-07:00

Where is this?

We have a winner! Congratualtions, John has won a super-bright CatEye blinky light!

Can you identify this location? The first registered BCC participant to email me with the correct location of this photo will win a prize!
email dgreen"at"intercitytransit.com

BCC 2011 - Last Day!!

2011-05-31T10:46:00.000-07:00

Today is the last day of BCC 2011- where did May go?? We did get some nice May weather in between the showers, but overall it was a cold, wet spring. April was the second coldest on record, and May had double the average rainfall and a mean temperature 7 degrees below avereage. Yet in spite of all that, we've seen great participation in the Bicycle Commuter Contest and lots of practical cyclists out in the streets.

NOW is the time to return your mileage logs!

HOW:

Drop your mileage log off at the Olympia Transit Center, 222 State Ave NE in downtown Olympia - OR
mail it to: BCC c/o Intercity Transit PO Box 659 Olympia, WA 98507-0659

WHY:

You will receive a lot of valuable coupons form our sponsors for discounts and FREE STUFF!
You could win one of FOUR BICYCLES in a drawing (details below) from our sponsors
You could win a random prize drawing for a super-bright CatEye blinky light
You could win prizes in one of our many prize categories for days and miles
You will help us demonstrate the practical cycling is alive and well in Thurston County!

Bicycle prizes for 2011: This year we have the New Belgium Cruiser bike from New Belgium Brewing (on display at Ralph's Thriftway) PLUS a Raliegh commuter bike from the Bike Stand (on display in their window), a Trek commuter bike from Bike Tech (on display in their window) and $300 toward the bike of your choice at Joy Ride Bikes in Lacey. We will hold four electronic random-number-generator drawings on Monday, June 13 from among all BCC participants whose mileage logs we have in our hands at that time.

Don't miss the BCC Award Ceremony on Saturday, June 25, 9:30 am, Oly Farmers Market. Bike drawing and prize category winners announced (need not be present to win), prizes awarded, MORE random prize drawings for those present- tons of fun for the whole family!

Washington State is # 1 Bike Friendly State again!

2011-05-27T13:38:00.000-07:00

Check out this link to read about it.
http://streetsblog.net/2011/05/24/washington-tops-list-of-bike-friendly-states/

New Random Prize Winner!

2011-05-26T09:36:00.000-07:00

Congratulations Evan! Evan has won a super-bright, long run-time CatEye rear safety light in one of our random prize drawings among all registered participants in the Bicycle Commuter Contest. Follow our blog to stay informed about random prize drawings and "mini-contests", in which you can win prizes for guessing the location of a photo.

Bicycle Alliance of Washington offers special rate for May

2011-05-23T10:16:00.000-07:00

Bicycle Alliance is offering a $5.00 membership this month only – for Bike to Work Month. Go to: http://www.bicyclealliance.org/membership/membershipform.php, and enter the Coupon Code BTW0511. Instead of being charged $35.00 the system will charge $5.

Bike To Work and School Day a Big Success!

2011-05-20T17:06:00.000-07:00

National Bike To Work and School Day 2011 was a great day for practical cycling in Thurston County as area schools and the City of Olympia/BCC Bike Stations reported record participation and the Inter-Agency Bike Ride turned out a great crowd as well. An estimated 900 school kids rode their bikes, boards or scooters to school today in Thurston County, and approximately 275 practical cyclists were counted stopping by or passing the Bike Stations. The Inter-Agency Ride estimates 90-100 participants representing 10 State Agencies plus Intercity Transit and City of Olympia. Pioneer School led the way among area schools with a record breaking 200 students (50%) biking or scootering to school today. Countless students walked or rode the school bus. Only a dozen or so cars entered the driveway. Go Pioneer!

The weather couldn't have been better, the cyclists turned out in droves, the crews volunteering for the events really pitched in, and event sponsors went the extra mile- thanks everyone!

Bike Station sponsors included: City of Olympia, Intercity Transit, Alpine Experience, The Bike Stand, Bike Tech, REI, Ralph's Thriftway, Batdorf & Bronson Coffee and Olympia Coffee Roasters.

Inter-Agency Bike Riders on National Bike-to-Work Day 2011

Inter-Agency Ride sponsors included: Old Town Bicycles, The Bicycle Alliance of Washington, Capitol Bicycling Club, The Bicycle Commuter Contest (Intercity Transit) and possibly others that I don't know about!

Find photos by WSDOT photographer here: http://www.flickr.com/photos/wsdot/

National Bike to Work (and School) Day TOMORROW!

2011-05-19T16:23:00.000-07:00

Ride your bike to work, school or on errands tomorrow and double your miles for the day on your BCC mileage log. Don't miss our Bike Stations from 7 am - 9:30 am at Heritage Park on 5th Ave, Ralph's Thriftway and the Eastside St. trailhead of the Woodland Trail. Details on the Bike Station page (click the link at right). See you there!

Local Schools Participate in National Bike to School Day

2011-05-18T15:28:00.000-07:00

News from Intercity Transit:

Bicycles of every color, and too many to contain, will be spilling out of bike racks at Olympia area schools this week. Parking lots are likely to be calmer with less vehicle traffic, and students will arrive to South Sound schools with a little more exercise under their belts.

Olympia area schools are encouraging students and families to cycle or walk to school on Friday, May 20, Bike to School Day. Bike to School Day is an annual event held across the United States and Canada that coincides with National Bike to Work Day, which together encourage entire families to leave their cars at home and commute on two wheels – or two feet - instead.

“The kids have grabbed on to how much fun it is to bike to school together as a group,” says Stacey Brewster, a parent and volunteer at Pioneer Elementary School in Olympia. “Families are finding that biking is easier than they might have thought, and so much fun. Brewster reports that she counted 87 children’s bikes parked in the school’s bike rack one day earlier this week.

For the past several years, hundreds of students from Olympia elementary, middle and high schools have participated by pedaling and stepping to school. The Olympia School District, with support from school administrators and parents, is again participating.

The Bike to School Day event, coordinated by Intercity Transit, is part of the public transportation agency’s youth education program. This year, any student who bicycles or walks to an Olympia school can be entered into a prize drawing for bike safety equipment or an iPod.

Intercity Transit Supports Year-Round Biking, Walking, and Transit Use

Intercity Transit’s nationally-recognized Smart Moves Youth Education Program works with schools and recreation programs year round to help students confidently and safely bicycle, walk, and ride transit. Transit officials estimate the program has worked with 20 schools and approximately 8,000 students on transportation related topics during the school year that is now ending.

In addition to Bike to School Day, the agency is participating in National Bike to Work Day, also on May 20. Intercity Transit also administers a Commute Trip Reduction program with 119 area worksites, offers transit pass programs to area commuters and students, and coordinates the popular annual Bicycle Commuter Contest in Thurston County - running this month – with an estimated 1,300 cyclists participating.

For information about Bike to School Day, Intercity Transit services, or the Bicycle Commuter Contest, visit www.intercitytransit.com or www.bccblog.com. For more information on the City of Olympia-sponsored Bike to Work Day or bicycle program, visit www.olympiawa.gov.

Correction- Inter-Agency Ride Destination is...

2011-05-17T11:51:00.000-07:00

Tumwater HISTORICAL Park, not Tumwater Falls Park, as stated in my latest email blast. See the Inter-Agency Bike Ride Page (right side bar at top of blog) for more details. Sorry!

2011 BCC Rider Profile #5: Alison Fuller

2011-05-17T09:54:00.000-07:00

What Alison doesn't mention in her "e-interview" is that she is a highly motivated and inspirational BCC Team Captain at her workplace, recruiting riders, holding in-house drawings, organizing bike rides and demos and rewarding riders. Thanks Alison!

What is your age? 31
What is your occupation? I work for Information Services at L&I
How many years have you been commuting by bike? 4
How many times have you participated in the Bicycle Commuter Contest? This year will be the 3^rd time
How did you hear about the BCC? A friend at work

What is it that keeps you going, especially when the going is tough (weather, darkness, inertia, etc)?

What keeps me going is that I never regret riding in to work. It could be a melee of elements thrown at me in the morning, wind, rain, cold and still when I get to work I feel great. Ok maybe I’m still waking up when I get there, BUT I feel good about myself that’s for sure. So the fact that knowing I feel great by riding is what keeps me going, that and the fact that I already have all the gear for all different seasons, have the bike, I really have no excuse.

How do you choose your route (most direct, least traffic, most scenic, etc)?

The route I choose is kind of squirrelly from downtown to Tumwater, but it suits me well because it has the least amount of traffic, plenty of bike lanes and the hill up Capitol is nice and steady – good for strength building. I hear that they are talking about expanding the trail system to reach Tumwater….can’t wait for that if it happens!

Describe your current average or usual commute (distance, terrain, urban/rural, etc.)

From Eastside Oly to Tumwater I cruise down the hill then up Capitol then jog right down Custer to 2^ndSt, up and over the pedestrian bridge beside Home Depot and down the road to work. I go the same way home except in the Winter because of the panniers I have on my bike it makes it heavy to push up the Custer hill to make a left on Capitol with traffic behind me. So during the Winter I will go around the old brewery to Deschutes Parkway, around the lake and then head up the 4^th ave hill to home.

Oh that 4^th Ave hill!! It’s a love-hate relationship we have. I love to hate it, it hurts sooo good.

What got you started bike commuting?

A girlfriend of mine gave me her old bike. It was a diamondback mtn bike and I rode it to work through the Summer of 2007, I still have it and use it for mtn biking up in the forest when I can. My friend was really into road biking and he convinced me to buy my current bike, which by the way matches the color of my living room (Not planned on, I swear!!). But totally awesome!!! As my friend says: ‘It’s what they call accessorizing!!’ So my bike, affectionately named ‘Panko Pilot’ is what I use to commute to work with, the occasional recreation ride and I rode it in the2008 STP.

How have you adapted your habits to make bike commuting work for you?

I hear this a lot from bike commuters, but it’s true: Organization is KEY! If I set out my clothes for work and accessories, etc the night before then in the morning when I wake up everything is already ready to go in my bike bag, all I need to do is put on my bike clothes and head out the door. I would be lost without the showers and locker room at work. It’s a HUGE perk.

What are some of the benefits you have experienced from commuting by bike?

My fitness level for one, plus saving the money of driving my car to work now that gas is WHAT?!?!?!?! $3.79 a gallon!!! At least it was at the Shell station downtown this morning.

What are some of the challenges you have experienced, and how have you overcome them?

The fear of getting a flat or something going wrong with my bike and I won’t know how to fix it!! I’ve come to accept the fact that things sometimes and will go wrong, but to just roll with it. Things always work out ok in the end. I’ve also come to realize that I can be really resourceful when I have to be. Like the time I bought a battery jumper from Home Depot because my car was dead at home and I didn’t want to ask anyone for help. I bought the jumper and realized all I had was my bike bag full of work clothes and other miscellaneous items with me. I ended up taking it out of the box and managed to fit it in my bag and it turned out that it was a good workout for the way home. DANG that thing was heavy!!! Plus my fears are somewhat subsided knowing that my favorite bike repair shop is on my way home in case there’s something that goes wonky that I don’t know how to fix.

Getting my bike on the bus rack – I don’t know why I had such anxiety over this, I had visions of the bus driving away with my bike and me chasing it down. Or my bike being halfway on the rack and falling off mid-ride. OMG what would I do?!?!?! My bike!!!!!!! I would be devastated. Or that I would have to ask the bus driver to get out of his seat to help me with the rack, whilst people waiting are jeering at me. Turns out it wasn’t that hard. There’s pictures on the rack about what to do that made it easy for me. It all turned out ok, I made it downtown during one of the craziest hail storms I had ever seen and now I have the confidence that I can put my bike on the bus if I ever need to. I can check that one off the ‘Things to worry about’ list! Whew!

What style of bike do you ride to commute?

‘Panko Pilot’ is a baby blue Trek with as many pink accents as I can fit on it.

Any words of wisdom for the beginning commuter?

JUST DO IT! You will feel great! I understand people have other commitments, school, work, kids – maybe all 3, but if you can work a ride in at least one day a week or even one a month your body, soul and the environment will be thanking you!

Happy Sunny Friday!

2011-05-13T11:56:00.000-07:00

First Random Drawing will be held on Monday, May 16- stay tuned!

NEW MINI CONTEST! Can you beat this??

2011-05-11T12:08:00.000-07:00

Does your bike reflect even more years of participation in the BCC than this one? The owner of this bike received a spontaneous prize for having so many BCC stickers- can you top that? If you send me a photo of your bike with this year's sticker and at least four other past years' BCC stickers, you could win a prize too!

BCC Mini-Contest #2: Where is this?

2011-05-10T09:24:00.000-07:00

Bike of the Week(!?)

Can you guess where this is? The first person to email dgreen"at"intercitytransit.com with the correct answer will win a prize!!! (you will have to pick up your prize at the Olympia Transit Center) The prize could be a bike light or a grocery bag pannier... good luck!
We have a winner! Congrats Irina!
The location is the new Olympia City Hall.
BUT, who knows the story of the tiny yellow bikes around town?

FOUND ITEMS (left at Wrenchers Ball)

2011-05-09T17:19:00.000-07:00

After the Wrenchers Ball dust had settled, we found that two items had been left behind: a coily combination lock and a clip-on type rear fender. If one or both of these items belong to you, please email me at dgreen"at"intercitytransit.com and describe your item and I will get it back to you pronto!

2011 BCC Commuter Profile #4: Tyler Greathouse

2011-05-09T12:31:00.000-07:00

Tyler rides for the "Wheels of Industry" team, with Captain Extraordinaire, Alison Fuller!

· What is your age?

I’m 34.

· What is your occupation?

State Worker.

· How many years have you been commuting by bike?

I’ve been commuting, on and off, for roughly 4 years. My bike usually hibernates during the winter.

· How many times have you participated in the Bicycle Commuter Contest?

This will be my 2nd year, and I’m really excited! The contest is a great motivator! Thank you Intercity Transit for organizing this event.

· How did you hear about the BCC?

The bike enthusiasts at work got me started. They do a great job of getting people involved.

· Describe your current average or usual commute (distance, terrain, urban/rural, etc.)

I ride about 10 miles each way, via city streets and the I-5 trail – Lacey to Tumwater.

· What got you started bike commuting?

It was a combination of the health and environmental benefits, not to mention saving gas money. My job is quite sedentary, so any exercise really helps.

· How have you adapted your habits to make bike commuting work for you?

I do have to wake up a little earlier and there is some additional planning/packing the night before. It is really a small price to pay when I look at all the benefits.

· What are some of the benefits you have experienced from commuting by bike?

I can eat soooo much junk food now! It’s awesome – I just burn it off. Oh, and I've met lots of new friends by participating in bike events around town!

· What are some of the challenges you have experienced, and how have you overcome them?

I’ve taken a few spills. Upgrading my bike lights, thicker tires, and changing my route (note to self, avoid railroad ties) have all improved my safety stats. (Ed. note: when crossing railroad tracks, always cross at a 90 degree angle to the tracks. Otherwise your wheel can slip into the gap and down you go! If the tracks cross the road at an angle, this can mean having to swerve into the traffic lane to get the right angle. If you can't see behind you to be sure it is safe to do so, stop and walk across the tracks!)

· What is it that keeps you going, especially when the going is tough (weather, darkness, inertia, etc)?

I like to set goals. It takes quite a bit of determination when the weather changes, but the increased level of fitness is a nice, tangible, outcome that keeps me going.

· How do you choose your route (most direct, least traffic, most scenic, etc)?

My route focuses on safety, and is not as direct as it could be. In the summer I change it up and focuses on hitting as many hills as a can on the way home.

· What style of bike do you ride to commute?

My commute bike has gone through a few iterations over the years. Now I’m riding a cross bike and I'm very happy with it. The need for fenders and fat tires quickly became apparent.

· Any words of wisdom for the beginning commuter?

Practice your route on a weekend. Even better, ask a cyclist friend to ride along with you. Also, remember to make it fun!

IMPORTANT Regarding mailed-in registrations

2011-05-07T10:36:00.000-07:00

The 2011 BCC is off to a great start! We have well over 1000 registrations in our files already, with several large teams still to submit their lists. Now it's time to ride and record your miles!

IF YOU MAILED IN YOUR REGISTRATION and have not received your Mileage Log, coupons and sticker in the mail, please e-mail dgreen"at"intercitytransit.com and let us know you need your materials.

You can download a PDF version of the Mileage Log, but I would like to know if you did not receive yours, and I will need to send you your coupons and sticker.

Thanks so much for participating in the Bicycle Commuter Contest!

First Mini Contest! Guess this place!

2011-05-03T22:03:00.000-07:00

We Have a winner! The location is Sherman St NW and Garfield Ave. Congrats Paul! Next mini-contest coming soon...
The first currently registered BCC 2011 participant to email me at dgreen"at"intercitytransit.com with the correct location of this photo (street/cross-street) will win their choice of a front or rear LED bike light!
Good luck!

BCC Sponsor Offerings- and, It's not too late to register for the BCC!

2011-05-03T14:04:00.000-07:00

It's not too late! Register for the Bicycle Commuter Contest by May 6 to be sure you are included in random drawings for great prizes! You can register after that, but your chances of winning a drawing will be lower.

Check out these offers from two of our sponsors!
ROSSER CHIROPRACTIC Cyclis's Stretch Class
REGISTER FOR THE BCC and get free admission: 6pm to 7pm, Wednesday, May 4, 2011- Stretching Techniques for Cyclists: A class designed to target muscles and joints used in cycling. All levels of fitness are invited! No charge, but class is limited to first 20 to RSVP. Call or email Dr. Andy Rosser at 754.6499 or andy"at"rosserchiro.com

THE BEAUTY TEMPLE Discount for BCC participants who arrive by bike!
Arrive for your rejuvenating and beautifying appointment at this soothing sanctuary on your bicycle, and receive a per-mile discount for the miles your traveled to get there. The Beauty Temple offers holistic, eco-friendly salon and spa services with a unique and healing twist. Call 357-0275

2011 BCC Rider Profile #3: Jenya Campbell

2011-05-03T11:07:00.000-07:00

*    What is your age? 35

*    What is your occupation? Production Supervisor for Batdorf & Bronson Coffee Roasters
*    How many years have you been commuting by bike? I started Biking in May of 09, specifically for the 2009 Bicycle Commuter Contest

*    How did you hear about the BCC? I found out through my job at Batdorf & Bronson

*    What got you started bike commuting? A co-worker & dear friend (and avid bicycle commuter) suggested I attempt the BCC in 2009, it was this experience that made me realize it was possible to continue biking, even after the Contest.

*    Describe your current average or usual commute (distance,
terrain, urban/rural, etc.) During my work-week, I bike a total of 17.2 miles a day. (8.6 each direction.) I consider myself to be blessed when it comes to my daily commute. From home, I ride a mere mile & 1/2 to the Chehalis Western Trail via the Yelm Hwy and then it's smooth sailing for 5 1/2 miles on the trail. It is another mile & 1/2 to work from there. It is a gorgeous ride, the trail really makes this possible for me.
When I first started, I only biked a day or two a week, but I worked myself up to 4 days. During the month of the BCC I add an extra day.

*    How have you adapted your habits to make bike commuting work for
you? Initially I was afraid that biking to work would be too difficult, in terms of getting ready for the work day. Things like, waking up earlier, would I need a shower after the ride?, bringing my clothes & make-up...things like that. It only took a few weeks for me to get a system in place for myself. It helped to get everything ready the night before. It took some work and tweaking, but it eventually became second nature.
Also, I needed to prepare my bicycle itself for successful commuting. I armed my ride with fenders for WA weather, a bike bag for lugging my clothes, a headlight for the darker months etc. The folks at Bike Tech were really helpful with this. Occasionally I would discover that I needed something I hadn't planned for - so I would just get myself what I needed, as things came up. That happened after a rain-soaked discovery that I needed a water-proof coat, pants & shoes, so that I could comfortably ride in the rain.

*    What are some of the benefits you have experienced from
commuting by bike? The most significant benefit was losing 70 POUNDS. My life completely changed. I remember my first months of rides, and how hard they were. This experience has taught me about my physical abilities, and how to tap into self discipline. The riding ultimately opened my eyes to a part of myself I had long ago lost, or maybe never even knew I had. I started to incorporate other elements to my regimen, which was not so hard - knowing what I was capable of. I even recently ran in my first half-marathon on May 1st...which I NEVER would have attempted, were it not for my biking. My job, my motivational co-worker, the Bicycle Commuter Contest and my determination to stick with it, truly saved my life. I am the best version of myself that I can be...all thanks to these things coming together.
Also, my car insurance is 20% less a year now, because I am a part time driver!!

*    What are some of the challenges you have experienced, and how
have you overcome them? My own mind has been my greatest challenge. Thinking that I can't possibly be able to do this each day. I gotta say though, proving myself wrong has been incredible! I have ridden through the rain, sleet, ice, snow & wind....braved elements I never would have in the past. I try to set myself up for success, with being prepared and giving myself enough time to get where I am going. I often put myself into a meditative state, in order to overcome these obstacles. I have chanted many an affirmation to get me through. Often I say to myself how lucky I am that I GET to do this, that I have the ability to physically power myself, the health & surroundings to support this. It is hard at times, but the reward is SO much bigger anything else I have felt. I feel very proud.

*    What is it that keeps you going, especially when the going is
tough (weather, darkness, inertia, etc)? As I mentioned above, I try to boost myself with positive thought. However, I have to give a HUGE amount of props to my co-worker & friend, who turned me on to biking to begin with. Fortunately for me, and cardinal to my continued success, the majority of my rides are in really good company. I couldn't have done it otherwise. Having someone waiting for you at 5 in the morning really gets you up and moving. Having a buddy to talk to on the ride, someone to say "Hey this rain's not so bad", someone to look out for you, keep you company and challenge your resistance. It is a beautiful thing, that I am eternally grateful for. (And I like to joke that the extra headlights don't hurt either!)

*    How do you choose your route (most direct, least traffic, most
scenic, etc)? The Chehalis Western Trail is a godsend. I never would have been so successful, were it not for this safe & traffic-less "avenue". It is beautiful, quiet, paved and there is always wildlife around to greet you. I still look forward to the trail, even after traveling upon it so many times.
*    What style of bike do you ride to commute? I don't know much about types or brands of bicycles, mine is a hand-me-down, from a family member. As I mentioned before, I had some things added to it, like a comfy seat, new tires, a bag rack, some lights and a set of fenders. I believe it is a mountain bike...it has thick tires, and is really heavy. I keep it pretty well tuned up, some of which my friend taught me how to do myself! A couple times a year I bring it in to Bike Tech for maintenance that lies beyond my scope of ability. I have been told that its on it's last legs & won't make it through the summer. I am saving up for something nice & light...but I have enjoyed the bike I have just fine.

*    Any words of wisdom for the beginning commuter? Try it....just try it. I remember when I got on my bike, for the first time since childhood. It felt like I was ten again! The wind in my hair, and all it's reminiscent qualities. It is amazing exercise that almost anyone can do, on almost any kind of bike. The environment and your gas tank will thank you. Don't over think it, just go for a spin. We are so blessed, here in Olympia, with loads of trails and bike paths to choose from. It is a great way to get to the store, or a great thing to do with your friends, or children. A wonderful date with your loved one....bike to a picnic spot. I liken it to a time machine, why not be a kid again?

Wrenchers' Ball a Success- now check out the Tacoma Bike Swap!

2011-04-29T20:58:00.000-07:00

Our incredible team of over 20 volunteers performed safety checks and minor repairs on 109 bikes belonging to Bicycle Commuter Contest participants and signed up 60 new particiapnts at today's Wrenchers Ball event! Thanks so much everyone!

Check out the Tacoma Bike Swap- Saturday, April 30, 10-2

Wrenchers' Ball and Random Prize Drawings- Coming Up! Plus, get your Undrivers License!

2011-04-27T11:03:00.000-07:00

Register for the Bicycle Commuter Contest and receive a free safety check of your bike by mechanics from local bike shops at the WRENCHERS BALL (Friday, 4/29). Bring your bike to the Olympia Transit Center between 7:30 am and 3pm this Friday, April 29, and pick it up by 5pm. If your bike needs extensive repairs or parts, you will be referred to a nearby bike shop. This is an event for participants in the Bicycle Commuter Contest. You must register for the BCC to qualify for the free safety check. There is a limit to how many bikes we can check out, so FIRST COME, FIRST SERVED, bring your bike early to ensure we have a chance to look at it.

A NEW FEATURE at the Wrenchers Ball this year: Come to the Olympia Transit Center between noon and 4pm and get your "Undrivers License"! Undriving creatively engages people to reduce their car use - leading to reduced carbon emissions, increased health, and greater community connectedness. Get licensed to Undrive! We issue Undriver Licenses to people of all ages who make a pledge to experiment with getting around without a car. What will you discover?

In other news: Hurry and register for the BCC because our new random prize drawings will start soon! Starting on May 1, we'll have periodic random drawings among all BCC registrants for sweet prizes like bike lights, reflective leg bands or even shopping-bag panniers!

What a Day for a Ride!

2011-04-23T22:11:00.000-07:00

2011 Earth Day Market Riders

Over 100 riders from eight different neighborhoods around Olympia, Lacey and Tumwater participated in this year's Earth Day Market Ride- thanks so much everyone for coming out! Special thanks to Intercity Transit Authority member Karen Messmer for a spontaneous welcome speech, and Intercity Transit General Manager Mike Harbour for leading us all to the Market! Once we got there, nearly 70 people registered for the Bicycle Commuter Contest.

Happy Earth Day!

2011-04-22T11:05:00.000-07:00

Celebrate today at the Olympia Farmers Market, 10- 3

or at SPSCC's Earth Day Forum, 12-2

CHECK OUT THIS WEATHER REPORT
and come on out tomorrow for the Earth Day Market Ride!

See post below for details.

Join the EARTH DAY MARKET RIDE THIS SATURDAY- here's how:

2011-04-15T13:22:00.000-07:00

2010 Earth Day Riders

Volunteer leaders will lead groups of cyclists from their neighborhood to Heritage Park Fountain, arriving at 11am, THIS Saturday, April 23. Meet your neighborhood Ride Leader at one of the meeting points below- rides will depart the meeting points approximately 15 minutes after the posted meeting time. You'll bike with your group down to the fountain (across from the Oyster house), following all rules of the road. After some brief announcements including greetings from Intercity Transit general Manager Mike Harbour, we all proceed as a large group to the Olympia Farmers Market where the Bicycle Commuter Contest will have a booth set up to register participants. Ride into town, register for the BCC, meet old friends and new. Stick around for the festivities at the Market, and stay or come back in the afternoon for ArtsWalk activities and the Procession of the Species!

MEETING POINTS AND TIMES:

* South Sound Center flagpoles at Sleater-Kinney and the bike path- 10 am - Leaders Dane Clay and Yogi Fox (Yogi will be meeting a group at Cutters Coffee at the Lacey Blvd/Pacific Ave. roundabout at 9 am for coffee before the ride, leaving there at 9:30 to join Dane at South Sound Center)

* Chambers Lake Chehalis-Western trailhead parking lot(14th Av SE) 10 am – Leader Troy Warnick

* Peter G. Schmidt Elementary School, Tumwater, 10 am – Leader Joy Rogers

* Olympia High School, at bike racks on Carlyon Ave side, Olympia, 10 am - Leader Paul Brewster

* Roosevelt Elementary School, San Francisco Ave NE, 10:15 am – Leader Kris Fransen

*The Evergreen State College, Red Square bus stop area, 10 am - Leader Chloe Stamper

* Garfield Elementary School, Garfield Ave. and Plymouth St NW. 10:15 am - Leaders Camille Hodges and Susan Lasiter

For more information or if you would like to lead a ride from your neighborhood, contact Duncan Green at dgreen"at" intercitytransit.com
The Earth Day Market Ride is sponsored by Intercity Transit- wearing a helmet and signing a liability waiver are required.

$4.00 a Gallon? Save Money and Go Green this Spring

2011-04-15T13:20:00.000-07:00

Intercity Transit press release on gas prices and commute alternatives...

Bicycle Commuter Contest in the News...

2011-04-14T10:16:00.000-07:00

Follow this link to a story in today's Daily Olympian.

...and this link to a story in the Weekly Volcano!

The evening commute

2011 BCC Rider Profile #2: Thay Nguyen

2011-04-08T14:05:00.000-07:00

First Person to Register for 2011 BCC

3-time BCC Particiapnt Thay Nguyen

Rider Profile:

(Though he did not mention it in this e-interview, Thay Nguyen won prizes the last two years running for both the number of days and miles he rode in his age category)

What is your age? 62 yrs old

What is your occupation? Agency: Financial office – GA.

How many years have you been commuting by bike? 3 years.

How many times have you participated in the Bicycle Commuter Contest? 3 times.

How did you hear about the BCC? On the internet.

Describe your current average or usual commute (distance, terrain, urban/rural, etc.) Normal is 3 miles, one way. In the summer, when going home, I often bike 8 – 10 miles.

What got you started bike commuting? To improve the environment and my health.

How have you adapted your habits to make bike commuting work for you? Nothing, I did not have to adapt my habits. Biking is more convenient than taking the bus.

What are some of the benefits you have experienced from commuting by bike? I feel my health is better since I bike. I sleep well at night. The arthritis in my hand is gone.

What are some of the challenges you have experienced, and how have you overcome them? At the beginning I was afraid of the vehicles when I had to turn left in an intersection. Now, I feel confident to do that. Most of the cars yield for me. Also I don’t have to go to the gym after work. This is a way to save money, save time, but gain health.

What is it that keeps you going, especially when the going is tough (weather, darkness, inertia, etc)? Sometime it is dangerous when some cars don’t yield for me at the 4 way stop signs and when it is dark and raining, but to continue to have good health, I keep commuting to work by bike.

How do you choose your route (most direct, least traffic, most scenic, etc)? I prefer to take the direct route when going to work because it is faster. When going home, I take the trails because it is safer, but it is longer.

What style of bike do you ride to commute? I am using a road bike.

Any words of wisdom for the beginning commuter? At the first time, you may ride on the trails to test your health and your skills. When you feel confident, you may ride on the roads. Keep biking and you will feel your health is better. In the summer, you may spend time riding on weekends. You can also enjoy fresh air and the sightseeing. View information online at intercitytransit.com.

Bike Of The Week: 4-7-2011

2011-04-07T11:30:00.000-07:00

Trusty steed waits in the rain...

Form a Team to Participate in the BCC

2011-04-06T12:48:00.000-07:00

Participating in the Bicycle Commuter Contest as a team with family, friends or co-workers provides extra fun and motivation to ride in May and return your Mileage Log. It's so SIMPLE! Just decide on a team name and contact person, and fill in the blanks on your Registration Form. Mail in or take your Registration Form to the Olympia Transit Center and get your Mileage Log, and sticker, and you're set to go! Come along for the Earth Day Market Ride on April 23, and count your miles toward your total. More info at intercitytransit.com or by contacting Coordinator Duncan Green at: dgreen"at"intercitytransit.com or 705-5874

10% Discount on Urban Cycling Classes!

2011-04-01T11:20:00.000-07:00

Want to learn how to confidently ride in traffic?

Take the Capitol Bicycling Club’s Urban Cycling class on Saturday, April 16^th from 9AM – 3PM and learn:

How to outfit yourself and your bike
How to navigate intersections and ride comfortably with traffic
Minor bike up-keeping and flat tire repair

Get a discount of 10% off our Urban Cycling Classes in April or May by entering
the Bicycle Commuter Contest!

When you register for the Bicycle Commuter Contest...

You will receive a Mileage Log to keep track of your miles ridden in May.

On the back of your Mileage Log, find the coupon code to enter when you register

for the Urban Cycling Class at www.decidetoride.org

Registration is open for Bicycle Commute Contest 2011!

2011-04-01T11:02:00.000-07:00

Register in April, Ride in May! For Instructions, read more...

Register in person at the Olympia Transit Center (OTC), 222 N. State Ave, open weekdays 6:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. and weekends 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. or:,

download a printable PDF of the registration form, print it, fill it out and mail it in with your payment or drop it off at OTC.
find a registration form in the back of the BCC Guide, available at bike shops, coops, Thriftway stores and many local businesses. Fill it out and mail it in with your payment or drop it off at OTC.

Registration is $5.00 for adults, free for ages up to 18. The Bicycle Commuter contest is open to all who live or work in Thurston County, and is for anyone who rides their bicycle for transportation- to work, school, on errands or just to get around. Sorry recreational and training miles don't count. We have exciting new sponsors this year, and more and better prizes, including several bicycles that will be awarded in random drawings among participants. There will also be random drawings for prizes throughout May, so everyone has a chance to win!

Tick Tock, Tomorrow's the first day to register for the BCC! (April 1)

2011-03-31T14:21:00.000-07:00

Who will be the first to register for the BCC? Will they win a prize? Would it be big or small? Round or square? Dorky or super-cool? What if there was a prize for the first ten people to register? Who knows? Olympia Transit Center opens at 6:30am Friday, April 1- be there to find out!

Welcome New Sponsor and Supporter!

2011-03-25T16:28:00.000-07:00

Please welcome our newest Valued Sponsor: Olympia Power & Light bi-weekly local newspaper. Find them at many area businesses, or subscribe at: http://www.olympiapowerandlight.com/
OP&L will be helping us spread the word about the BCC!

Also please welcome our newest Supporter: Warehouse Rock Gym http://www.warehouserockgym.com/
They are giving us Monthly Passes to award as prizes!

BCC Registration Opens in One Week!

2011-03-25T07:53:00.000-07:00

Mark your calendar, Registration for Bicycle Commuter Contest 2011 begins on Friday, April 1!

Starting April 1, you can register in person at the Olympia Transit Center (OTC), 222 N. State Ave, or:

download a printable PDF of the registration form, fill it out and mail it in with your payment or drop it off at OTC.
find a registration form in the back of the BCC Guide, available at bike shops, coops, Thriftway stores and many local businesses. Fill it out and mail it in with your payment or drop it off at OTC.

Bike of The Week- March 11

2011-03-11T10:52:00.000-08:00

It's been a challenging couple of weeks for the brave bicycle commuters and practical cyclists of Thurston County, with snow, ice, torrential rain and wind ushering in March like a roaring lion!

I've seen quite a few bikers on the road through all of it though, and there have been a few breaks in the weather as a reward. Spring is coming soon- the equinox is less than two weeks away, and registration for the Bicycle Commuter Contest begins in less than a month! Ride on!

Welcome New Sponsor and New Supporter

2011-03-09T09:42:00.000-08:00

We extend a warm welcome to Olympia Coffee Roasting Co. as the newest Sponsor of the Bicycle Commuter Contest! They will be supporting us at the Wrencher's Ball with coffee for the volunteers, and offering a coupon to all participants in the BCC! Welcome aboard Olympia Coffee Roasting!

Also please welcome Sustainable South Sound as our newest Supporter- they will be donating four of their poular and highly valuable coupon books for us to give away as prizes to BCC participants.

Seattle Bike Expo, March 12 &13

2011-03-09T09:12:00.000-08:00

Check it out here! There will be so much to see and do; if you're in Seattle, swing by!

Food for thought

2011-03-04T15:28:00.000-08:00

Seen from the saddle, all pictures taken within 1/2 hour and 1/2 mile of each other.

Intrepid Winter Commuter

2011-03-02T09:32:00.000-08:00

Rain nor sleet nor snow nor ice...

Worthwhile new website to check out...

2011-03-01T14:44:00.000-08:00

Bike To Work website

Vulnerable User bill passes State Senate

2011-02-24T15:51:00.000-08:00

See the Cascade Bicycle Club's article here

Interesting video...

2011-02-24T15:48:00.000-08:00

Moving Beyond the Automobile video series

Youth taking bike culture to the streets of Africa

2011-02-22T08:50:00.000-08:00

Check out Wafalme's "Me and My Bike" video on You Tube.

Friday Morning Commuter-Count

2011-02-18T08:53:00.000-08:00

It was a chilly but beautiful ride in today- the mountain was blazing out from under the clouds, and I saw three snowflakes float by just as I was passing Ralph's Thriftway. The bike-commuter count was a little low this morning- I only saw five other bikers, and one mallard duck waddling beside the road near a rainwater pond. Happy Friday!

Bike of the Week

2011-02-17T08:54:00.000-08:00

This is actually a rather historical bicycle- it is one of the bikes that helped popularize the 10-speed "racing" style bike in the US, fueling the bike boom of the late 1960's and early1970's. Schwinn introduced several features aimed at making this style of bike more appealing to the masses, including stem-mounted shifters and so-called "safety levers", the brake lever extensions that allowed braking from the top of the handlebar. This is a Super Sport model that was made from Chrome Moly tubes and came with alloy rims, stem and handlebars. A lightweight, at about 32 lbs.! This specimen seemed remarkably well-preserved for being over 40 years old- I hope the owner appreciates the historical importance of her/his bike!

New Washington State Bike Commute Guide is Online

2011-02-16T09:35:00.000-08:00

Thanks to Larry Leveen of OlyBikes, a host of other bike commuting luminaries and the Washington State Dept. of Transportation, the new Washington State Bicycle Commuting Guide is now available online in PDF form. There are both large and small versions to accomodate your needs and computer and connectivity cababilities. You can see them here:

Small Version (PDF)

Large, Print-Ready Version (35mb PDF)

Lots of other great info and links are on the DOT's bike pages as well, start here:

WSDOT Bicycling Home Page

2011 BCC Rider Profile #1: Scott Pearson

2011-02-15T08:26:00.000-08:00

Bicycle Commuter Profile Scott Pearson:

What is your age? 50
What is your occupation? Research Scientist at Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife
How many years have you been commuting by bike? Daily for the past five years. Before that, I walked and biked.
How many times have you participated in the Bicycle Commuter Contest? Around 3 times
How did you hear about the BCC? From fellow employees at WDFW.
Describe your current average or usual commute (distance, terrain, urban/rural, etc.). An easy 2 mile commute through residential neighborhoods, along Capitol Way (briefly), and then back into a residential neighborhood and across the Capitol Campus.
What got you started bike commuting? I have biked for years (never seriously) as a way to both exercise and get out doors – so, commuting by bike was not a difficult transition. We intentionally settled in a neighborhood where we could bike or walk to work and one where our daughter could walk or bike to school to minimize our environmental impact and because we enjoy biking and walking.
How have you adapted your habits to make bike commuting work for you? I leave home a bit earlier than I would if driving but, because I live close to work, I really don’t need to leave much earlier than I would if I were driving. It is also necessary to do some somewhat regular maintenance on my bike but is far less expensive than taking the car to the shop and much less complicated! The only other habit is putting on rain gear and booties so that I arrive at my destination dry.
What are some of the benefits you have experienced from commuting by bike? I enjoy the exercise and the time provided to make the transition from work to home - it helps me make the transition more smoothly, especially after a difficult day at work.
What are some of the challenges you have experienced, and how have you overcome them? For me, car drivers are the biggest challenge! I bike daily during the work week and run several days and week. When doing these activities, I find that some drivers are not fully engaged in driving and don’t yield to bikes and pedestrians and don’t use turn signals. As a result, I am vigilant and defensive when I bike and run and by being vigilant and selecting relatively safe routes, I feel very comfortable commuting by bike. I also make myself more visible with bright flashing lights.
What is it that keeps you going, especially when the going is tough (weather, darkness, inertia, etc)? Now, it is just what I do - I really don’t consider driving unless I need to carry equipment or gear that I cannot transport on my bike or if it would be necessary to leave my bike overnight (bikes and items left on bikes are stolen out of cages provided for bike commuters). I even like biking in the snow as long as the roads are not too slippery. Once it becomes a habit, it tends to stick.
How do you choose your route (most direct, least traffic, most scenic, etc)? I select the safest route – which means avoiding cars. I also prefer to breath in as little exhaust as possible.
What style of bike do you ride to commute? A 1986 touring bike. To make it a better commuting vehicle, I added fenders, lights front and back and purchased good waterproof panniers.
Any words of wisdom for the beginning commuter? Come out and join us – even if you only ride in good weather!

Friday Morning Commuter-Count: 12!

2011-02-11T09:20:00.000-08:00

My commute is about 5 miles through a cross section of Olympia from West to East, going right through downtown. This morning was cloudy and just above freezing. During my half-hour commute at around 8am, I saw 12 other people using their bikes for transportation. That's even more than last week- keep it up Olympia!

Welcome Alaffia Sustainable Skin Care as BCC's newest sponsor!

2011-02-10T09:13:00.000-08:00

Alaffia Fair Trade and Sustainable Skin Care will be offering a discount coupon for their online store to all of this year's BCC participants who return their mileage logs. Check out the Alaffia Website to find out more about their products and philosophy. Welcome aboard Alaffia!

Bills of Interest to Cyclists

2011-02-09T09:30:00.000-08:00

Here are some links to information about cycling-related bills working their way through the process in the Washington State Legislature...

HB 1339 ("Vulnerable User" bill)
HB1071 (relating to roadway design)
HB 1129 (relating to driver education)
HB 1018 (driver-bicyclist mutual responsibilities)

HB 1129 passes in House of Representatives

2011-02-07T10:43:00.000-08:00

See the link below for details on what this bill does:
http://www.bicyclealliance.org/programs/legislation.html

Bike of the Week

2011-02-07T09:49:00.000-08:00

Just keeping my eyes open on the way to work this morning,
I counted nine other bike commuters as I pedaled through town
on a chilly February morning. I like it!

Seen From The Saddle- Feb 2, 2011

2011-02-03T11:36:00.000-08:00

Took the sceninc route home last night and was rewarded with this nice view. I do actually pull over and stop to take these...
Last night's Capital Bicycling Club meeting was fun, seeing a video about the English frame builder Jack Taylor, and some very classy old bikes. Aslo confirmed CBC's sponsorship of the Bicycle Commuter Contest for 2011- thanks!
Coming: 2 new Commuter Profiles in the works and later, a how-to video on loading your bike on the bus.

CBC's Classic Bike Show tonight

2011-02-02T08:46:00.000-08:00

...at the Capitol Museum coach house, 7:30pm- see post below or click on title of this post for details...

A cool video about taking your bike on the bus...

2011-02-01T14:17:00.000-08:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eoFFg0W9UME

A Typical Parisian Utility Bike, c.1970 (Bike of the Week- Jan. 28)

2011-01-28T16:40:00.000-08:00

So simple and elegant- how much more does one really need?
Have a good weekend!

Fun upcoming events to brighten your cycling winter

2011-01-28T10:58:00.000-08:00

Capital Bicycling Club's Classic Bike Show: Wed. Feb. 2, 7:30 pm Capital Museum Coach House 211 21st Avenue Southwest, Olympia See the CBC web site for details about this event and all the other great stuff your local bicycling club is up to: http://capitalbicycleclub.org/
Seattle Bike Swap: Sun. Feb 13, 9am-2pm Seattle Center Exhibition Hall 225 Mercer St. Seattle- see the Cascade Bike Club's website for details: http://shop.cascade.org/content/events/seattle-bike-swap
Seattle Bicycle Expo: Saturday, March 12, 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.and Sunday, March 13, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., Smith Cove Cruise Terminal 91, near the Magnolia Bridge in Seattle. Info: http://cascade.org/EandR/expo/index.cfm

Have fun- maybe I'll see you there!

A Visible Biker on a Foggy Morning Commute...

2011-01-27T09:52:00.000-08:00

Actually a pretty pleasant ride in today- the fog seems to muffle sound a bit like snow, so it seemed quiet, at least until we got closer into town and joined the flow of car commuters. It was definitely a day for yellow jackets and bright, fully charged blinky lights though- visibility was down to about 50 yards in some places.

Welcome To Our Fresh, New Look!

2011-01-25T09:55:00.000-08:00

Our new blog layout is designed to be easier to read and navigate. Hope you like it! I'll be updating some of the other features on the blog in the next few days as well- stay tuned and happy cycling- the weather looks good the next few days- just watch out for ice if you ride in the early morning.

A Washington State Senate hearing today of interest to cyclists...

2011-01-21T09:08:00.000-08:00

Click here to See the Cascade Bicycle Club's blog for details...

Don't Be an "Invisibiker"!

2011-01-20T09:40:00.000-08:00

The days are starting to get longer, but it is still dark early in the evening, and I still see un-lit cyclists riding in the dark every day(many in dark clothes as well). I'm probably preaching to the choir here, but if you or someone you know are cycling after dark without lights, please reconsider. It may be trendy, you may feel like you are flying under the radar, or may feel you just can't afford the expense or don't have time to get to the bike shop. Please just stop and think for a minute.

Inexpensive LED bike lights are widely available (you don't need the fanciest one!)
A front and rear LED light and batteries are much cheaper than an ER visit.
In dark clothes and without a light, you are INVISIBLE to drivers. Not a problem for you? Wait until one turns left in front of you, or pulls out from a side street into your path.
It is considerate of other users of the road to be visible, and your consideration benefits all cyclists.
It's the Law. In Washington State you must have a white light on the front of your bike and a red rear reflector if you ride after dark.

Thanks for not being an "INVISIBIKER"!

BCC 2011 on Facebook

2011-01-19T14:40:00.000-08:00

We've added Facebook to our array of communication tools- check out our page here: BCC2011onFB .
For now, the most exciting or different thing about our FB page is that I am gradually posting photos there relevant to the BCC. Check out the albums there to see photos of BCC events, "Bikes of Thurston County",

and other photos of interest to the local bike commuter.

"View From the Saddle" on this morning's commute...

It just seems like you see more from your bike!

BCC News: Preparations in Full Swing

2011-01-17T16:43:00.000-08:00

Now entering its 24th year, the Bicycle Commuter Contest encourages community members of all ages and abilities to use bicycling as a means of transportation, and gives rewards and recognition to novice and veteran bike commuters alike. We're looking forward to all of our great events this year and we hope you'll join us! We're off to a running start with preparations for BCC 2011. Dates are set for our major events:

Earth Day Ride: Saturday, April 23, 2011 (more info to follow about time and place)
Wrencher's Ball: Friday, April 29, 2011 (BCC registrants get a free bike safety check)
National Bike to Work Day: Friday, May 20, 2011
Award Ceremony: Saturday, June 25, 2011 (more info to follow about time and place)

Stay tuned here for frequent updates, news and bicycle commuting tips and stories. Get important BCC news and updates emailed directly to your inbox by signing up for our e-newsletter. Just send me an email at dgreen@intercitytransit.com and I'll add you to our list! (We never share your contact info with anyone)

A window on the world, past and present...

2011-01-14T16:54:00.000-08:00

You can carry almost anything on a bike... China, 1987

If only we had parking issues like this! Holland, 2010

2010 BCC Survey Results

2011-01-14T14:23:00.000-08:00

280 people responded to our 2010 BCC Survey. 90% of them had participated in the BCC. Here are some highlights of their answers to our questions:

The top 3 motivations for participating in the BCC were:

Personal health and well-being
Concern for the environment
To lead by example

About 40% of respondents made most of their trips by bike already (before participating in the BCC). Of those who did not, most (33% of respondents) drove alone and many used a combination of modes of travel.

17% of respondents said that the BCC influenced them to try practical cycling, and 49% of all respondents said that it influenced them to bike more frequently.

Respondents had many reasons to feel the BCC was a rewarding experience. 48% liked the coupons, and many people commented that it is most rewarding to contribute, be a menber of a team or of the greater cycling community, and to feel that one is making a difference.

One respondent did not participate in the BCC because s/he feels that it is just for "wannabes" and fair-weather cyclists, unlike her/him, who rides year-round. Our survey results show that while many of our participants are new to bike commuting or ride more during the BCC(and those are two of our main goals), a significant number of BCC participants choose cycling as their primary mode of transportation year-round.

Whether or not you responded to the survey, please feel free to contact me at any time with questions, ideas or feedback about the BCC!

Rutted, half-frozen slush!

2011-01-12T09:32:00.000-08:00

Cycling condtions on the way to work this morning made me feel so fortunate to have a good bus system as a back-up for at least part of my commute today. The roads near my house were mostly covered in rutted, half-frozen slush. The bike lanes were deep with it, and navigable only with much difficulty. Cars whizzed by hurling tsunamis of heavy, dirty goosh six feet in the air and all the way to the shoulder of the road. When I was a little younger, I probably would have toughed it out and ridden the whole way, but today I decided to put my bike on the bus for the first part of my commute. That got me downtown where the melting was a little farther along, and from there I rode the rest of the way to work without difficulty, getting wet only from the rain, and from being a bit over-dressed! For more information about taking your bike on an Intercity Transit bus in Thurston county, visit intercitytransit.com

If you rode your bike to work today, or have a story to share about commuting by bike or bike-and-bus, feel free to leave a comment here on the BCC blog, or email me at dgreen"at"intercitytransit.com

Snow in the forecast...

2011-01-11T09:22:00.000-08:00

I grew up riding my bike to school everyday (five miles through the snow, barefoot - OK not really!) in northern Illinois regardless of the weather, so I became accustomed to biking in snow and ice at an early age. Now that I am older and more brittle (if not wiser) I have decided to try studded tires for frozen slippery weather. The tires I bought came with a recommendation to ride them on dry pavement for a few miles to seat the studs before putting them through snow and ice. So this morning, with only a little black ice here and there, but snow in the forecast for this afternoon, I thought this would be the perfect day to try them out. The tires were definitely slow and a bit squirrelly on dry pavement, and sounded like a scaled-down version of studded car tires on the road. We'll see if we actually get any snow and if so, how easily I get home tonight!

The BCC Blog is open for 2011

2011-01-10T15:35:00.000-08:00

Hello and welcome back to the BCC blog- your resource for Thurston County bicycle commuting information, support and encouragement! I'm back in the saddle and gearing up for the 2011 Bicycle Commuter Contest. We're going over the results of our survey from July 2010 and taking your responses into account. We've had some great input and look forward to implementing some new ideas to make the contest even better, more rewarding and more fun this year. Stay tuned here for news about the BCC's annual events coming up in April, and about the improvements we're planning for BCC 2011!

I'll be biking to work every day and keeping my eyes open for other intrepid winter bike commuters- let's stick together to make it through the remaining cold dark months until spring! If you are one of those year-round bike commuters and have a story to tell, road condtions to report, or just want to check in with your local practical-cycling community, feel free to leave a comment here on the blog or e-mail me at dgreen"at"intercitytransit.com. I do moderate comments on the blog, so they won't show up instantly.

Just a reminder since the days are still short and visibility can be an issue for drivers with wet or dirty windshields: Stay Visible! Bike lights are relatively inexpensive and getting better and brighter all the time. Get the brightest, best lights you can possibly afford, and mount them so drivers can see them. Reflective clothing and accessories help too. The reflectors on your bike can be a help, but also only if they are mounted and aimed properly. Reflectors work by reflecting the light from headlights directly back to the source, but they are pretty directional, meaning if they are tilted toward the ground or the sky, that's where the reflected light will go. Don't be an "Invisibiker"!

Stay safe and keep pedaling,
Duncan

BCC 2010 Survey Closed- please email your feedback!

2010-07-08T10:10:00.000-07:00

The 2010 BCC Survey has been closed so we can analyze the responses. We still want to hear from you if you didn't get a chance to fill out the survey! Please email any comments or feedback you may have to dgreen"at"intercitytransit.com Thanks!

The Bicycle Commuter Contest is all over for 2010, but this is your chance to help us improve the BCC even more for 2011. Please take a few moments to reply to our survey by clicking on the link below or on the title of this post. Thanks so much for being a part of the Bicycle Commuter Contest this year! I'll be looking for you out on the streets this summer, and I look forward very much to seeing you again for BCC 2011!

BCC 2010 Award Ceremony, June 26

Bicycle Commuter Contest 2010 Results

2010-06-28T17:07:00.000-07:00

The 2010 Bicycle Commuter Contest is a wrap! 1336 couragous commuters signed up, and 938 of them turned in their mileage logs, in spite of nearly twice the normal rainfall for the month, with 22 days of measurable precipitation in May. Follw the links below to see how your team fared in various categories, and who rode the most days and miles in the individual categories. Thanks again for participating, and I look forward to seeing you next year! Stay tuned to this blog for further updates and news of interest.

Overall Team Placement
Top Team Results
Individual Results

BCC Award Ceremony This Saturday!!

2010-06-23T09:12:00.000-07:00

Saturday, June 26 at 10 a.m. - Olympia Farmers Market stage

We'll announce the winners of the many different categories in the Bicycle Commuter Contest and award prizes (need not be present to win).
We'll hold a random drawing for a prize for those who turned in a mileage log and are present at the ceremony.
We'll announce the winner of the drawing for the New Belgium Cruiser bicycle (the actual drawing will be a random electronic drawing that will occur today, and the winner will be notified immediately).

In other BCC News:

Coupons have been mailed to everyone who turned in their mileage log. If you don't receive your envelope by the end of the week (June 26), contact me and I will make sure you get your coupons.
We'll be sending out a survey soon, to assess our success, and gather as much information as we can to improve the BCC for next year and beyond. Please participate, or let me know if you don't receive the survey by June 28.

Many thanks to everyone who participated in BCC 2010- see you on Saturday!!

2010 BCC Overall Results are taking shape!

2010-06-16T10:59:00.000-07:00

The mileage logs are in, and we're getting a picture of the participation in this year's Bicycle Commuter Contest. In spite of below-normal temperatures and almost double the average rainfall for the month of May, participation in the BCC remained strong. One especially encouraging detail is the high percentage of riders who followed through and turned in their mileage logs: up from 55% last year to 70% this year.

Overall Statistics:

65 Teams (52 Returned mileage reports)
1336 Registered (938 Turned in mileage logs = 70%)
350 First Time Participants = 26% of participants (201 turned in logs = 57%)
968 Veteran Participants (707 turned in logs = 73%)
84,452 miles = 3839 Gallons of Gasoline @22mpg and 101,342 lbs. CO2 @ 1.2 lb/mile
11,837 commute trips
4.4 mile avg. one way commute, Avg.13 days per rider, Avg. 90 miles per rider

Participation by age group:

Juniors (to 11 yrs): 301 = 23% of participants (213 Logs = 70%)
Youth (12-18 yrs): 49 = 4% of participants (24 Logs = 49%)
Adults (19-59 yrs): 920 = 69% of participants (553 Logs = 60%)
Seniors (60+ yrs): 52 = 4% of participants (39 Logs = 75%)

Team vs. Individual Participants:

Team Members: 1068 (765 returned mileage logs = 72%)
Individuals: 269 (163 returned mileage logs = 60%)

Better Late Than Never! Turn in your Mileage Log...

2010-06-09T14:37:00.000-07:00

If you or someone you know participated in the 2010 Bicycle Commuter Contest, and has not turned in a mileage log yet, please do! Even if you only rode one day, we want to know about it! You can return the log in person to the Olympia Transit Center, or mail it to the address on the back of the form. Thanks so much for pedaling in May!

2010 Rider Profile #2: Joy Rogers

2010-06-08T13:40:00.000-07:00

• What is your age? Screaming up too quickly on 53

• What is your occupation? Department assistant
• How many years have you been commuting by bike? This is my 3rd year
• How many times have you participated in the Bicycle Commuter Contest? This is #3.
• How did you hear about the BCC? Thru the workplace
• Describe your current average or usual commute(distance, terrain, urban/rural, etc.) 13.5 miles round trip from Tumwater (urban), uphill and down.
• What got you started bike commuting? Partly the BCC and partly the supportive environment of my workplace
• How have you adapted your habits to make bike commuting work for you? Arising an hour earlier, adjusting the morning routine, planning work attire in advance and remembering to bring in work clothes on carpool days, planning and preparing the night before for the next day.
• What are some of the benefits you have experienced from commuting by bike? My husband and I are primary caretakers for my disabled mother, so we have very little discretionary time. We normally carpool together. He works 10-hour days with Mondays off, so bicycling provides flexibility: I don’t need to drive, don’t have to wait until he picks me up after 6 p.m., I don’t have to leave work early to catch the bus, and bicycling is quicker than the bus. Since bicycling also is an excellent aerobic workout, I’m not trying to find additional time for exercise. Plus, I love the quiet, the smell, the sounds, and the views on the way to work in the morning, before the traffic and hubbub begin. And riding home after work is a fabulous de-stressor. Benefits: Combining a great aerobic workout with transportation; gaining excellent use of commute time; enjoying a positive sensory experience on the way to work and arriving happy and in a good mood that generally carries thru the day; the exhilaration of zooming downhill part of the way home; savoring the views on the return trip, arriving home calmer and less stressed; the feeling of accomplishing something positive and good, that I was able to overcome challenges; knowing I am part of the solution, contributing to the “greater good”; and saving money- that's a lot of benefits!
• What are some of the challenges you have experienced, and how have you overcome them? In the beginning: getting started, staying motivated, and just being able to make it all the way to work. Sometimes it’s a challenge just to get out of bed at 5 a.m. (part of that is not leaving all the morning “duties” to my husband, such as feeding the dogs, getting mom set up, taking out the garbage, etc.). Feeling guilty for trading the dogs’ walking time for bicycling. Time is often a challenge—it would be so much quicker/easier to carpool with my husband, but then I’d miss all the benefits and euphoria of bicycling. This year, I also am recovering from a broken leg. The first few attempts were uncomfortable and a little painful, so I had to back off and take it slower, but bicycling is helping to strengthen and improve the leg much quicker than I expected.
• What is it that keeps you going, especially when the going is tough(weather, darkness, inertia, etc)? At first, it was the contest itself (not wanting to let the team down). Then all those benefits motivate me to continue. I was a real wimp about riding in the rain…until I actually rode in a downpour (without rain pants or proper shoes). Even though I was soaked to the bone from waist down, it wasn’t nearly as bad as expected and that felt good!
• How do you choose your route(most direct, least traffic, most scenic, etc)? Usually, the least uphills and traffic. Fortunately, there’s abundant scenery on any route, and since there is less traffic, I’m able to enjoy it more.
• What style of bike do you ride to commute? Currently, it’s an inexpensive Schwinn hybrid I bought at Fred Meyer a few years ago, when hubby and I were purely occasional recreational cyclists. However, I’m seriously considering something more comfortable and fitting for commuting.
Ed. note: See the new Trek above! It's a Trek (women-specific design) 7.3XL. "Picked it up Saturday, rode it this morning. Woo hoo! The hills were a breeze in comparison to the other bike!"
• Any words of wisdom for the beginning commuter? Take one of the urban cycling courses! It’s well worth the time and money. Before I took the course, I was very hesitant to ride in traffic because there were certain circumstances I didn’t know how to deal with. The course was excellent, the instructors are marvelous, and now I have lots more confidence on the road!

Another event Saturday June 5- donate your old bike!

2010-06-04T16:31:00.000-07:00

Celebrate National Trails Day this Saturday June 5!

2010-06-02T14:00:00.000-07:00

Meet from Noon to 1PM at the "T" intersection of the Woodland Trail and the Chehalis Western Trail for light snacks and a celebration.
Before that, you can help restore our trail system by participating in one of three work parties:
Saturday, June 5

9 AM In Olympia to put mulch mats on our newly-planted trees at the Fones Road Crossing of the Woodland Trail. Contact Jack Horton (360)
9 AM In Lacey for invasive species removal at Woodland Creek Community Park at the east end of the Woodland Trail. Contact Lori Flemm (360)701-6814
9 AM In Thurston County for invasive species removal at the Chambers Lake Trailhead of the Chehalis Western Trail. Contact Kerry Hibdon at (360)867-2181

Enjoy the trails: ride your bike or longboard; skate or walk. Just get to the intersection of the Woodland Trails and the Chehalis Western Trail by Noon!If you are not familiar with this location, call Jack Horton (360)789-0944 for directions.

BCC 2010 Wraps up- time to return mileage logs!

2010-06-01T09:36:00.000-07:00

What a wet May! By my count, it rained or showered on 19 days in May. 1332 people registered for the Bicycle Commuter Contest this year, let's see how many actually rode their bikes rain or shine!

Please turn in your completed, legible mileage log by Monday, June 7 at the Olympia Transit Center, 222 State Ave NE in downtown Olympia, or mail it to:
Bicycle Commuter Contest
c/o Intercity Transit
P.O. Box 659
Olympia, WA 98507-0659

Remember to count the miles you rode in the Earth Day ride if you participated, and to count your "double" miles if you rode on Bike To Work Day, May 21. Check the box if you want to be entered to win the New Belgium Cruiser bike in our free drawing. We also have lots of great coupons for everyone who turns in a mileage log, and many excellent prizes for those who rode the extra mile or the extra day!

Don't miss the Award Ceremony at the Farmers Market on Sat. June 26 at 10am!

First Rider Profile for 2010: Jennifer "Will" Granger

2010-05-26T13:45:00.000-07:00

Jennifer "Will" Granger is almost 29, rides a bike named Tiffany, and bounces back from a close encounter with a turning truck.
What is your occupation?
I'm the front office coordinator at one of the clinics of South Sound Physical and Hand Therapy. We have a 5 person team doing the commuter contest and several others who also jumped on board.

How long have you been commuting by bike?
I bought my bike only about nine months ago. I've ridden her (her name is Tiffany) to work a few times, but this month is the first I have really made an effort. I've driven my car exactly twice total since May 1st. Both times involved bike repairs. I love starting my day with a ride and I can't believe how much easier it's gotten in just the past month.

How many times have you participated in the Bicycle Commuter Contest? This is the first of many, I hope!

How did you hear about the BCC? I think I found one of the info booklets in Dancing Goats coffee shop. My coworkers were putting me to shame running and going to the gym on their lunch breaks. I used to be really active and had slacked off the past few years, so I thought this would be a good way to get active again. My coworkers joined in too, so we keep each other motivated.

Describe your current average or usual commute I don't go very far at all in terms of to and from work. I live on the west side about 2.5 miles from the clinic. That giant hill is INSANE though. On the way to work when I am headed down hill, I avoid the traffic and the terror of being half upside down on Harrison by going over to 4th or 5th. Wet brakes make that hill particularly challenging for me in the rain. When I head home from work, my challenge is just to get up the hill at all. I call it my hillnemesis and judge my progress by how much of it I can ride vs walk. I only walk about two blocks of it now. When I started, I was walking before I even got through both roundabouts.

What got you started bike commuting? I knew I wanted to commute by bike when I bought my bike back in August, but it really took the bike commuter contest to get me actually doing it. I'm a very competitive person, so it works well to motivate me. The trick will be keeping it up, but I have trouble imagining going back to driving everyday. I'm cranky just thinking about not riding!

How have you adapted your habits to make bike commuting work for you?
Yes, I've gotten used to getting very wet. Other than that, I do have to plan things out a little better sometimes, think more about how long it will take me to get someplace not juts in terms of distance but also terrain. I've been doing all of my errands by bike as well as riding to and from work, so I grocery shop much more often in order to carry smaller loads that will fit in my backpack.

What are some of the benefits you have experienced from commuting by bike?
Well I know I'm in far better shape than when I started and I'm happier. I even drink less coffee now! That's kind of a miracle.I'm also much more aware of all the little amazing parts of Olympia. It's amazing what you miss driving all the time! Like 7 oars park: that place is really cool; it's this gorgeous little haven right off the crazy busy roundabouts headed west from downtown. I never took notice of it when I drove everywhere, but I've stopped and chilled there several times just in the past month, especially early on when I couldn't make it all the way to the second roundabout without stopping to walk. I've ridden to and from Evergreen a couple of times for events. Both times I was in awe of all the stuff to look at on the way. That's a really nice ride.I also haven't bought gas all month. That one has been fantastic!

What are some of the challenges you have experienced, and how have you overcome them? I’ve had a few. The most notable by far is that I got hit by a truck about a week into May. She was headed for a parking lot and made a right turn without checking the bike lane. I sprained my ankle and got a bunch of bruises, and my bike needed a wheel trued. I was very very lucky that that was all. Also lucky that I work for South Sound Therapy. I took personal advantage of the free consults our therapists do and had my ankle checked out to make sure nothing too serious was going on. The next morning was one of the times I drove my car, but I took my bike in to the Bike Stand, had them fix up my wheel and was back on my bike for errands that evening. My ankle’s still a bit ouchy, but it doesn’t hurt when I’m riding and it’s pretty good rehab for it.
I am MUCH more defensive when I ride now though. I make my intentions very clear and watch like a hawk for turn signals and where drivers are looking (or not looking!) My other notable challenges were going half the month with no fenders and arriving everywhere soaked, and a seemingly permanent flat that persisted after 2 new tubes. The awesome folks at the Bike Stand tracked it down to a teensy thorn inside the tire, but it was a frustrating few days of riding on a slowly deflating tire.

What is it that keeps you going, when the going is tough (weather, darkness, inertia, etc)? I have to turn in my mileage calendar and all the people on my team are going to wonder what's on it; I'm going to feel stupid if it's empty. Silly as it sounds that's what kept me going at first. It’s the one little difference between all the times I'd said I would do this and me actually doing it. I guess you could say that peer pressure keeps me going! Now that I'm in the habit, it just makes me feel good. It makes mornings easier to deal with and I sleep better at night. I’m also really really stubborn. I’m not about to let a truck, some rain, or a flat tire win.

How do you choose your route? In terms of commuting, I look for the way that is going to be the easiest ride: least elevation change, shortest, etc. Then I look to see what the safety concerns are. Of course, an easy ride isn't going to make me bike a crazy busy two lane road with no shoulders when there is an alternative. Rain changes my route some as I want to avoid going down steep hills with a lot of traffic due to the challenge of braking quickly in the rain.
If I’m just going out for a ride just for the sake of riding, I try for a scenic route that will make me sweat but not want to die at the end. I like riding to evergreen and back. It’s a pretty ride that’s about the perfect distance and difficulty if I want to challenge myself a bit.

What style of bike do you ride to commute? Tiffany is a mid 80's KHS triathlete pro road bike with the drop bars and all that jazz. I've added lights, a horn, and fenders to make her more communing friendly . I bought her from an awesome guy named Bill who was reluctant to let her go, but I promised her a great home. She’s a great bike with a lot of personality: teal and purple with white grips and accents. She looks like she may take you out in an alley, sing "I Think We're Alone Now" and give you mall hair. So far, this hasn't happened but I try not to turn my back on her for too long. Someday I'll probably spring for a frame that fits me a little better, but I am head over heals in love with Tiffany. Bill, if you read this, Thank you!

Any words of wisdom for the beginning commuter?
Just start doing it. Set a day to start and don't stop. It's going to be hard at first and it's going to rain and be cold; ride through it. It's totally and completely worth it. Oh, and keep an eye out for cars turning right.

Frequent Rider Rewards

2010-05-26T09:23:00.000-07:00

In the Bicycle Commuter Contest, everybody wins! Everyone who turns in their mileage log will receive an envelope of 24 valuable coupons to popular local businesses. For those who ride at least ten days, that envelope will be a little fatter, with 7 extra coupons, to Deschutes River Cyclery, OlyBikes, Old School Pizzeria, the Olympia Food Coop, Orca Books, Rainy Day Records, and for a free long-stem rose at Ralph's Thriftway!

It's late in the month, but there is still time to get in some more bike commuting days on your mileage log, and earn those Frequent Rider coupons!
Be sure to turn in your log by June 7 to make sure you get your coupons and are eligible for prizes and the free New Belgium bike drawing, announced at our Sat. June 26 Awards Ceremony at the Olympia Farmers Market- 10 am on the main stage!

Last week to record miles for the BCC!

2010-05-25T10:28:00.000-07:00

There's one more week to get your mileage up, and record the miles you've ridden in May for the Bicycle Commuter Contest. How a month does fly by! Please remember to record the miles you've ridden to work, school or on errands this May on your BCC mileage log, and return it in person to the Olympia Transit Center, or by mail to the address on your mileage log.

Don't let a little rain stop you (but do slow down, as your brakes won't respond as well, and the streets can be a little slick). This morning was damp, but it's not actually so unpleasant to ride in the spring sprinkle. The fresh air, the fresh rain on your face- it's good for the skin! So keep pedaling your way towards a nice envelope of valuable coupons, and maybe even a prize!

If you'd like to be interviewed for a "Rider Profile" to be featured on this blog, email me at dgreen@intercitytransit.com

Bike To Work and School Day Activities a Success!

2010-05-24T09:40:00.000-07:00

Photo by Jim Colt, WSDOT

Interagency Bike Ride

Members of the Intercity Transit BCC team "Crank IT" participated in the Interagency Bike Ride during the noon hour, and were rewarded with not only goodies from the Bicycle Alliance and Maple-Bacon donuts from Twisters Donuts, but a break in the weather, as the afternoon shaped up into a pretty nice day. Nearly 60 riders turned out for the ride altogether, despite the threatening weather at the outset.

Bike to School Day

The late May cold, wind, and rain did not stop students, parents, and teachers from making a good show at Pioneer Elementary School in Olympia on National Bike to School Day. 108 Pioneer students (30 percent of the student body) rode their bikes to school. Countless other students walked or rode their scooters. The bike racks are filled beyond their holding capacity. Parent volunteers Stacey Brewster and Denise Pantelis distributed green bicycle lapel pins, provided by Intercity Transit, to students who rode their bikes to school.

Bike To Work Day

Around 150 dedicated bike commuters stopped at the City of Olympia's Bike Stations between 7 and 9 am on Friday, many of them participants in the Bicycle Commuter Contest. BCC participants received as thank-you gifts: 15 Planet Bike light sets, 60 Planet Bike rear flashing lights, and many reflective leg bands from Jandd Mountaineering. The City had muffins, bananas, Clif Bars and their own reflective leg bands, plus coupons for local bike shops.

Bike To Work on Friday to support Number One Bike Friendly State!

2010-05-20T14:54:00.000-07:00

The Thurston Bicycle Commuter Contest has been recognized by the League of American Bicyclists and contributes to Washington State's ranking as the League's Number One Bike Friendliest State since 2008. Cyclists like you, participating in the BCC, and commuting year-round by bike, are putting our community and our state on the map and in the minds of cyclists and bicycle advocates across the country. Support that recognition and our number one status by riding your bike to work or school tomorrow: Friday, May 21; National Bike-To-Work Day and Bike To School Day. Who knows what the weather holds in store, but what do we care? We are the vanguard and the example that other states across the nation aspire to emulate. Let's show them we won't be daunted by a "chance of showers", and be out on the roads in force (and in Gore Tex if necessary!) for National Bike To Work Day!
Remember that you can record double miles on your BCC mileage log on May 21.