Join the Practice Bike Ride into Boston Hosted by Melrose Ped/Bike Committee Partners & Boston Cyclists Union

Are you considering bike commuting during the Orange Line Shutdown, but feel nervous about biking to Boston for the first time?

The Melrose Pedestrian & Bicycle Committee (MPBC) is coordinating with the Boston Cyclists Union to host a practice ride from Oak Grove to downtown Boston tomorrow, August 21,  at 11 a.m. Riders will meet at the bike cage located at Oak Grove.

Ride Details

This will be a casual, slow-paced ride designed for first-time riders. The organizers will have trained marshals leading the ride to ensure everyone's safety. Please invite anyone who is considering biking around Boston for the first time during the shutdown. To review the route before the ride, visit ridewithgps.com/routes/40592710

Community members are invited to hang out at the first Open Newbury Street of the season after the ride, which will end around 2:30 p.m. More info here www.boston.gov/.../transporta.../open-newbury-street. Learn more by visiting the Boston Cyclists Union event page: www.mobilize.us/bostoncyclistsunion/event/493768/

Looking for a Group or Bike Buddy to Commute With?

According to Cycling Weekly, the main reason that cyclists ride side by side is for safety. A group of cyclists riding two abreast will be easier to see for drivers, making it less likely that they will be hit from behind, but the main reason is to make sure that drivers give them enough room.

The MPBC can help you find a group or bike buddy during to commute with. Contact the MBPC by visiting pedbikemelrose.org/contact-us/

Urban Cycling Safety Tips

“Boston loves cyclists, so we want to make sure you’re prepared for everything. Learn how to avoid common urban hazards. Know the rules of the road and proper cycling etiquette, too. Ride smart. Ride safe. And most of all, enjoy yourself.” — Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health

To review safety tips, and check out a series of videos to learn about rules of the road and ways to improve your cycling skills before beginning your month long bike commute, visit www.hsph.harvard.edu/bikes/safety-tips/

Cycling Safety Tips from the NHTSA

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is dedicated to promoting safe behaviors on our nation’s roads and their bicycle safety programs focus on the behaviors of bicyclists and motorists to reduce injuries and fatalities on our nation’s roadways. To read additional bike safety tips from the NHTSA, visit www.nhtsa.gov/road-safety/bicycle-safety