What other people are doing

In some of the world's great cities, municipal efforts (be sure check all the links in that article) and people try to inspire us to pedal. Closer to home, the local daily tells us how foolhardy and dangerous such an approach can be. No doubt there's risk — and risk here — in cycling but if I let that paralyze me before I hit the road I might as well not get out of bed in the morning.

Do as I say. Please.

Just because I'm not commuting, especially during Bike to Work Week, doesn't mean you shouldn't. Now's the perfect time to make plans for next week, as in May 12-16. Here's a good link for what's going on in the Triangle. I will go on the Ride of Silence but that's after work May 21. If you're not in the Triangle, check out Bike to Work Week, a site that James runs from Erie, Pa. How good is his site? It's where I found the information for what's happening here. Of course, if you know what's happening in your area and James doesn't, tell him.

Some weeks never end

For some cycle commuters bike to work week is every week. Others stick to the stricter definition of the week that includes May 15. And some riders just do it when they feel like it. Bike to Work Week is open to all approaches. Check out the map, event listings and forums. See or discuss what your locale is or isn't doing. There's a lot to talk about and Bike to Work Week wants to get the conversation started.

Ride of Silence

occurs every year during Bike to Work Week to remember cyclists killed or injured while riding. The Triangle ride is tomorrow, May 16 at 7 p.m. in RTP. Even though I find the concept a little melodramatic — trust me, I am aware every day that cyclists die or are hurt on the road — I plan on being there. Another purpose of the ride is to remind all of us that we share the road. I'm happy to add to the strength in numbers to underscore that reminder. A few more miles will be good for me anyway.

It's bike to work week

Not just for me but for everybody. All week, May 14 through May 18. So go put some air in your tires and get pedalling. This means you.

Drum beats …

for Bike to Work Week are already audible. The annual big event for cycle commuters is May 14 through May 18. If you live in western Wake County, one of The Cary News reporters is planning a victory ride (victory over what I'm not sure) and inviting anyone who wants to join him to go. I'll be going since the long route looks good. Maybe I can find out about the victory too.