Whether you’re a seasoned bike commuter, want to support the city’s efforts to encourage more bicycling or are merely curious, take note: Detroit will celebrate Bike to Work Day this Friday, May 17 with three morning gathering spots, free coffee and snacks, giveaways and a commemorative tech shirt.
The format of this year’s event is the same as in previous years, with the main event downtown at the Spirit of Detroit plaza on Woodward at Jefferson, plus two pit stops: one at New Center Park, hosted by Henry Ford Health System, the other in front of State Hall at Wayne State University, on Cass at Putnam. Organizers have invited Mayor Mike Duggan, who spoke briefly last year, and Gov. Gretchen Whitmer to speak. Wheehouse Detroit will also provide free bike parking at the Spirit of Detroit plaza from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Route convoys are apparently still being finalized, but in years past have included groups that ride in from the Grosse Pointes, from the east side down Gratiot, from as far away as Plymouth and from Dearborn. The biggest convoy is typically the Woodward group, which usually begins at American Cycle and Fitness in Royal Oak, which provides support, makes its way to the Royal Oak Farmers Market and then rejoins Woodward south of I-696 the rest of the way down.
You can follow the Detroit Bike To Work Facebook page or check the Detroit Greenways Coalition website for updates.
Riders are also asked to register for the free event in order to be guaranteed a T-shirt.
Bike to Work Day is a great way to kick off spring, show solidarity with fellow bicyclists and bike commuters, and refresh your tired morning commute. And since it offers the chance to ride with others at a relaxed pace, it’s a great way for newcomers to explore a more enjoyable, healthier way to get to work.