FABB Blog

Sidecar option Photo by Peter Klosky

National Bike to Work day was May 20th, 2011, and the Reston community proudly sponsored a morning Pit Stop. 420 registered riders were in attendance. The Washington Area Bicycling Association sponsored 49 Pit Stops throughout the region.

Thanks to a generous donation of pavilion space at Reston Town Center, the spacious, covered location worked out well for bicycle riders to stop by, get refreshments and learn more about bicycling. Though May can have rain, the blue sky weather was ideal for cycling, with temperatures at dawn just above 60 degrees, and just below 70 degrees at the end of the event, 9 am.

Several local leaders spoke in support of bicycle usage. Fairfax Advocates for Better Bicycling leader Bruce Wright, who co-organized the event, welcomed commuters and the elected officials. Ken Plum, Virginia State Congressman, took the mic and explained how practical a recent multi-mode commuter challenge found bicycles to be. More on that topic follows below in the Bike-Car-Bus Challenge link. Cathy Hudgins, Hunter Mill Supervisor, mentioned that planning for bicycle access to the new Metro Train was in the works. Kathleen Driscoll McKee, Reston Association President, related an anecdote on how well bicycle riding can fit into an active lifestyle with a good fitness result. Reston Association staff member Liz Badley handled the duties of handling out the many door prizes by raffle held throughout the morning.

Food was available, thanks to Community Canteen of Reston and Great Harvest Bread of Herndon. Coffee, muffins and sandwiches kept commuters going.

The Reston Bike Club tent was well staffed and focused on presenting recreation, fitness and service opportunities to attendees. Other fitness and fitness event exhibitors included the YMCA and Tour de Cure. The Link organization, funded by the Reston Town Center Association, informed the public about transportation options. The Bike Lane, a local bicycle shop, provided a mechanic.

Attendees arrived with a wide variety of bicycles, including a modern “pedal forward” design with “relaxed geometry”, several styles of trailers, and even a sidecar.

This report by Peter Klosky, Reston Bike Club. All rights transfer. email

Links to various associated sites follow.

• Washington Area Bicyclist Association
• Fairfax Advocates for Better Bicycling
• Reston Town Center Association
• Reston Association
• Reston Bike Club
• LINK
• Bike-Car-Bus Challenge 2011 blog
• Challenge 2011 photos, by Mike McKee
• Bike to Work 2011 Photos
• Reston Patch article on Reston's Bike to Work Day
• Board of  Supervisors recognizes Bike to Work Day