The BCM commemorates UN Global Road Safety Week each year in May with a full slate of events meant to increase knowledge, skills, and awareness about the importance of protecting vulnerable users on the roads.
We encourage community participation in this effort. These are a sampling of some of the events we host throughout the week.
Urban Bicycling Class
Join one of the BCM’s nationally-certified bicycle instructors for some tips and answers to questions about riding in traffic. Review when and how to “take the lane,” how to safely make left turns on busy streets, how to avoid being “right-hooked” by drivers, how to equip your bike, what to wear, and more! Content will be adjusted to fit the group’s needs. We will be hosting an Urban Bicycling Class during Global Road Safety Week.
International Ride of Silence
Join cyclists worldwide in a silent, slow-paced ride to commemorate those who have been injured or killed while cycling on public roadways.
The Bicycle Coalition of Maine is the state coordinator for the Ride of Silence, working with groups and individuals to host a ride in Portland and support rides across the state.
Want to host a ride? The Bicycle Coalition of Maine has compiled the following resources to help guide and support groups and individuals interested in hosting a Ride of Silence in their community. Potential hosts should email anne@bikemaine.org
Bike to Work Day
The Portland Public Library; Friends of Congress Square Park; Portland Gear Hub; Portland Bike Party; City of Portland Maine Parks, Recreation & Facilities Department; Portland Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee; CyclingSavvy; and the Bicycle Coalition of Maine host an annual celebration in Congress Square Park with coffee and bagels generously donated by Tandem Coffee Roasters and Rose Foods, as well as bike mechanic demos, safe cycling tips, safety gear giveaways, music to get your day started on the right note, and more!