National Bike to Work 2008

Here are some photos and stats from the event. We had a total of 2 riders this year. Better than last year because this is the first year that there was an Edina convoy. Pics below and reflections & stats below!



Some reflections:

1. What went well, and feedback for what we can do next year

The map planning and centralizing on the Bike Walk Week site went well. Our route was perfect and I liked the start time. Thanks to Shaun and team for the resources.

What I'd like to do next year is more advertising locally and via web sites for the convoy from Edina. Specifically, getting some flyers posted at bike shops, coffee shops, and other venues.

2. Any interesting stories

The funny thing is that the other person showing up had a Surly bike like me (hers was a Crosscheck and mine a Big Dummy), rear saddle bags, Shimano pedals, and we both had the exact same sandle-type biking shoes that we purchased at REI recently. We both work downtown Minneapolis and commute throughout the winter. We had a pleasant conversation and kept a good pace all the way to downtown. Then at the government plaza, I noticed another Crosscheck and I was about to say "Sue, look...your bike's twin" and then looked up to see my oldest and best friend riding that bike, Scott from the UoM. Saw lots of friends and acquaintences at the plaza, thanks for the food and displays from places like One on One (thanks for the socks, Geno!).



Also...from Shaun M., NTP Project Coordinator:

"We had 40 bike convoys and 3 walk convoys
190 workplace teams were formed
980 people attended the 12 downtown celebrations and free breakfast locations
2,400 people registered online – and of those 11% had never biked or walked to work before"

"Also, Fox 9 did a story on Bike Walk to Work Day. Tim Blotz even walked people through the process of looking for commuter convoys on a computer!