Your Guide to Bike to Work Day

This Friday, the City of Newport will celebrate , a day dedicated to promoting healthy bike-riding habits and alternatives to driving to work.

Don't live in Newport, but still want to celebrate the day? No problem! You can still ditch the car and participate.

Here are some tips and rules to make the most out of your Bike to Work Day:

What You Need To Know

• Are you a last-minute shopper and still need a bike? Pick one up at or buy or rent one at 10 Speed Spokes.
• Proceeds will benefit the Bicycle Education Program in Newport Public Schools.
• Even though helmets aren't required by law for riders older than 15, it's still the safest way to ride! Learn how to fit a helmet here.  

What BikeNewport.me Wants You To Know

• Obey all traffic lights and signs:  You wouldn’t run a red light in your car, don’t do it on your bicycle.
• Always ride in the same direction as traffic: If it’s a one-way street for a car, it’s a one-way street for a bicycle. Always ride on the same side of the road as cars driving in the same direction. Never ride against traffic.
• Never carry another person on your bicycle: It’s the law.
• Always use lights at night: If they flash, even better. Wear light-colored clothing and reflective bands.
• Always use hand signals when turning or stopping: car drivers are not mind readers. Let people know what you are planning to do.
• Look out for cars at cross streets, driveways, and parking places: Stay alert to everyone and everything else using the road.
• Be careful when checking traffic and don’t swerve when looking over your shoulder: Turning your head can turn your bicycle into traffic. Be careful!
• Give pedestrians the right-of-way: Pedestrians always have the right of way.
• Keep your bicycle in good condition: and take a basic bike maintenance class.
• Always ride carefully!

Bike to Work Day Events in Newport

• 6-10 a.m. Breakfast for bicycle commuters at Great Friends Meeting House.
• 1 p.m. Press Conference on the steps of City Hall.
• 4 p.m. Community Bike Ride City Loop beginning at Great Friends Meeting House.
• 5-7:30 p.m. Bike Fair at King Park for awards, parade, bicycle registration, bike maintenance demos, bicycle safety, and art auction.

 Tips

• Register as either a participant, business or vendor at BikeNewport.me.
• Still need to get a bike last minute? Pick one up at Newport Bike or 10 Speed Spokes, which sells and rents bikes. 
• Bridge Commuter “Park & Bike” will be available at Newport Grand. 
• Remember to plan ahead with your workplace for a place to park your bicycle during the day.