Bike-Walk Alliance of NH

Author: Paula

  • Bike Month Proclamation

    New Hampshire Bike Month: Celebrating Cycling and Governor’s Proclamation

    May is not just a month of blooming flowers and warmer weather in New Hampshire; it’s also a time to celebrate the joys of cycling with National Bike Month. This annual event brings together cyclists of all ages and skill levels to explore the scenic routes, promote healthy living, and advocate for bike-friendly communities. Adding to the excitement this year is the Governor’s Proclamation, highlighting the importance of cycling and recognizing its positive impact on individuals and the community.

    Governor’s Proclamation: A Commitment to Cycling

    The Governor’s Proclamation for New Hampshire Bike Month reaffirms the state’s commitment to promoting cycling as a safe, healthy, and sustainable mode of transportation and recreation. It acknowledges the efforts of local organizations, cycling enthusiasts, and community leaders in fostering a culture of cycling and creating opportunities for residents and visitors to enjoy the beauty of the state on two wheels.

    Celebrating Cycling Across the Granite State

    Throughout May, communities across the Granite State come alive with a myriad of cycling-related events and activities. From family-friendly bike rides to challenging mountain trails, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Local businesses often join in the celebration by offering discounts on bike rentals, gear, and accessories, encouraging more people to embrace cycling as a lifestyle choice.

    Educational Workshops and Safety Initiatives

    In line with National Bike Month, organizations and municipalities in New Hampshire organize educational workshops and safety initiatives to promote responsible cycling practices. These initiatives focus on topics such as bike maintenance, road safety, sharing the road with motorists, and wearing proper safety gear. By empowering cyclists with knowledge and skills, the community ensures a safer and more enjoyable cycling experience for all.

    Tour de New Hampshire explores New Hampshire’s Rail Trails

    One of the highlights of New Hampshire Bike Month is the highly anticipated Tour De New Hampshire guided rail trail rides. Throughout May, the Bike-Walk Alliance, Granite State Wheelers, New Hampshire Rail Trails Coalition, and the Southern New Hampshire Plannning Commission are proud to sponsor five guided rail trail tours.

    Locations include the Northern Rail Trail, the trails of Manchester, The Presidential Rail Trail, the trails of Keene, and the trails of Bethlehem. The rides are free, but registration is required. Visit www.bwanh.org/tour for more information.

    Embracing a Greener Future

    As we celebrate National Bike Month and the Governor’s Proclamation, we also recognize the role of cycling in promoting environmental sustainability. By choosing bicycles over cars for short trips and commuting, individuals contribute to reducing carbon emissions, alleviating traffic congestion, and preserving natural resources. Cycling advocates and policymakers continue to work together to improve infrastructure, create bike-friendly pathways, and encourage active transportation options across the state.

    Join the Movement: Pedal for Progress

    Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or new to the world of biking, New Hampshire Bike Month invites you to join the movement and pedal for progress. Explore the scenic beauty of the state, connect with fellow cyclists, and experience the freedom and joy of riding a bike. Share your cycling adventures, participate in community events, and use #NH Bike Month to be part of the vibrant cycling community in New Hampshire.

    As we embark on a month-long celebration of cycling, let’s pedal towards a healthier, greener, and more connected future for all residents of the Granite State. Happy National Bike Month! Learn more about events around the state at www.bwanh.org/calendar

     

  • Tour de NH Rides

    Tour de New Hampshire: Discover the Beauty of New Hampshire’s Rail Trails by Bike: A National Bike Month Celebration

    This May is National Bike Month! To mark this exciting occasion, the Bike Walk Alliance of New Hampshire, in collaboration with the Granite State Wheelers and the New Hampshire Rail Trails Coalition, is thrilled to invite you on a series of guided bicycle tours along the breathtaking rail trails of the Granite State. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or new to biking, these weekend tours are designed to ignite your sense of adventure and showcase the natural beauty of New Hampshire’s rail trail system.

    Each weekend throughout May, we will highlight a different rail trail, allowing participants to explore various landscapes and historical sites. Our guided tours are perfect for those new to cycling, uncertain about rail trails, or just want to get out with a fun group of cyclists! These rides will provide a safe and supportive environment to learn about cycling, trail etiquette, and the rich history of these scenic routes.

    Here’s a glimpse of what you can expect from these guided rail trail tours:

    • Scenic Routes: From rolling hills to serene lakeshores, each rail trail offers its unique charm. Discover hidden gems and breathtaking views as you pedal through New Hampshire’s diverse landscapes.
    • History: Our tours are not just about cycling but also about learning. Discover the rich history of the railroads that once traversed these trails. Our knowledgeable guides will share fascinating stories about the evolution of these routes, enriching your understanding of the region’s past.
    • Welcoming: Our tours are about inclusivity and welcoming cyclists of all ages, backgrounds, and experience levels. Whether you’re riding solo, with friends, or with the whole family, there’s something for everyone to enjoy and feel a part of our cycling community.
    • Supportive Environment: Don’t worry if you’re new to cycling or haven’t been on a bike in years. Our experienced guides will provide tips on bike handling, safety practices, and making the most of your rail trail experience.
    • Community Partnerships: We’re proud to partner with local organizations like the Granite State Wheelers and the New Hampshire Rail Trails Coalition to promote cycling and outdoor recreation in our communities. Together, we’re creating opportunities for people to connect with nature and lead active, healthy lifestyles.

    Join us this National Bike Month as we pedal through the beauty of New Hampshire’s rail trails. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely ride or a new adventure, our guided tours promise unforgettable experiences and lasting memories. Let’s celebrate the joy of cycling together!

    Our guided rides will include:

    • Saturday, May 4: New Hampshire’s longest rail trail: The Northern Rail Trail
    • Saturday, May 11: The trails of the Queen City: Manchester NH
    • Saturday, May 18:  The Rail Trails of the White Mountains: Presidential Rail Trail and the Cross New Hampshire Adventure Trail
    • Sunday, May 26: The Rail Trails of the Elm City: Keene, NH
    • Friday, May 31: The Trails of Bethlehem: Bethlehem, NH

    SIGN UP NOW!  Space is limited, and registration is required for these free rides. For additional information and to register, please visit the Tour de New Hampshire information page at www.bwanh.org/tour.

  • Ride of Silence

    What is the Ride of Silence? It is a worldwide event that began two decades ago. The purpose of the event is to commemorate and bring attention to fellow cyclists that have been killed or injured by motorists. You can learn more about the Ride of Silence by going to the worldwide website for the event at RideofSilence.org.  The website has lots of resources and info on how to design, implement and register your own Ride of Silence.
    In New Hampshire, a Ride of Silence has been taking place for several years in Littleton out of the Littleton Bike and Fitness bike shop. This ride has been organized and led by local cyclist Jen Dodge, who was struck by a car several years ago and continues to deal with a myriad of issues as a result of that incident. The ride Jen organizes annually takes place on the third Wednesday every May at 7:00pm.
    Last year on May 17, at 7:00 pm, while thousands of cyclists across the world took to the streets in a Ride of Silence, in NH’s north country, despite the weather (think cold, windy, and yes, some snow flurries – it is May in the North Country!) there was a hardy group of riders that showed up and did the 9.5 mile ride, in silence. It was very reflective and even more meaningful given last year’s tragic death of a 54-year old Massachusetts resident, due to a collision with a motorist, at the Rasputista gravel bike race in Vermont.
    Organizer Jen Dodge starts her ride by reading a poem that each Ride of Silence starts with:
    The Ride of Silence:
    Tonight we number many but ride as one
    In honor of those not with us, friends,
    mothers, fathers sisters, sons
    With helmets on tight and heads down low
    We ride in silence cautious and slow
    The wheels start spinning in the lead pack
    But tonight we ride and no one attacks
    The dark sunglasses cover our tears
    Remembering those we hold so dear
    Tonight’s ride is to make others aware
    The road is there for all to share
    To those not with us by our side
    May God be your partner on your final ride.
    Mike Murgas

    The goal of the ride is to not only remember those that have been killed or injured while cycling, but to bring attention to the need for vehicle operators to better understand how to share the road safely with cyclists.

    This year’s NH Ride of Silence is Wednesday, May 15, 2024 at 7pm inn Littleton NH.

    The ride exists to honor bicyclists injured or killed by motorists; to promote sharing the road; and to provide awareness of bicycling safety. On May 15, 2024 at 7:00 pm, the Ride of Silence will traverse and unite the globe as it does each year. Cyclists will take to the roads in silent procession to honor cyclists who have been killed or injured while cycling on public roadways. Although cyclists have a legal right to share the road with motorists, the motoring public often isn’t aware of these rights, and sometimes not aware of the cyclists themselves.

    In 2003, Chris Phelan organized the first Ride of Silence in Dallas after endurance cyclist Larry Schwartz was hit by the mirror of a passing bus and was killed. The Ride of Silence is a free ride that asks its cyclists to ride no faster than 12 MPH, wear helmets, follow the rules of the road and remain silent during the ride. There are no registration fees. The ride, which is held during National Bike Month, aims to raise the awareness of motorists, police, and city officials that have a legal right to the public roadways. The ride is also a chance to show respect for and honor the lives of those who have been killed or injured.

    A wealth of information on bike safety, for both motorists and bicyclists, is available on the Bike-Walk Alliance of NH’s website under WHAT WE DO > EDUCATION.  Go to the website at  https://www.bwanh.org/. You can also reach out through Bike the North Country at https://bikethenorthcountry.com/.

     

  • Biking is Good for New Hampshire

    Getting more people on bikes in New Hampshire and helping them use their bikes more is good for people, our economy, and our planet. BWANH is working on it!

    The benefits are clear

    First, it’s obvious that bicycling is good for your health. While it’s great to hit the gym to get your American Heart Association-recommended 150 minutes of moderate intensity cardio per week, exercising outdoors provides greater benefits such as increased activity with less perceived exertion, stress reduction, reduced mental fatigue, and improved mood and self-esteem. Cycling on a flat road counts as moderate-intensity cardio, while hitting hills or going faster than 10 mph counts as vigorous-intensity activity. And bicycling is an activity that most people learn as children Through our Kids Bike Safety Program, BWANH is working to ensure that more kids learn about bike safety concepts.

    For those who might not feel fit enough to commit to a bike ride, e-bikes are a great way to get exercise. You can get as much or as little of a workout as you want on an e-bike, and I find that I bike farther and more often with my e-bike than I would with a regular bike. Once I get going on my e-bike, I tend to dial up my workout (by dialing down the electric assist) without having to worry about getting too tired to comfortably ride home.

    When it comes to economic benefits, bicycling, walking, bike-packing, and multi-day biking trips draw people who spend a lot of money on overnight stays, restaurants, outdoor outfitters, bike shops, grocery stores, and other retail stores.  New Hampshire DOT’s “Statewide Pedestrian & Bicycle Transportation Plan and Economic Impact Study Technical Memorandum #4, Economic Impact Analysis” (January 10, 2020) found that “[w]hen multiplier impacts are included, New Hampshire’s pedestrian and bicycle-oriented businesses are responsible for an estimated 335 jobs and $48.7 million sales.”

    The economic benefits of non-motorized recreation have been overlooked in the state’s tourism planning and promotion, however, because it does not generate fees that go directly to state agencies such as the Bureau of Trails. We hope that is about to change in light of recent economic impact studies. BWANH has posted a summary of the relevant economic studies on our website.

    Among those is a study of the economic contributions of nine rail trails to New Hampshire’s economy by a team of researchers from the UNH Cooperative Extension to support the preparation of the New Hampshire Rail Trails Plan (NHDOT, August 2022). Key findings from that study included:

    • Annual economic contribution of rail trials to the NH economy: $18.7 Million.
    • Annual tax revenue: $2.7 Million.
    • Jobs supported: 164

    In contrast, the Plan notes that state funding for rail trails for the period 2017 through 2020 amounted to only $190,000. That needs to change!

    As far as the environment is concerned, biking is an obvious choice to reduce pollution. In contrast with cars or buses that have internal combustion engines, bikes (including) e-bikes have next-to-no greenhouse gas emissions. Using Portland, Oregon as a case study, shifting 15% of passenger-miles to e-bikes “could result in a 12% reduction in transportation CO2 emissions, with an average CO2 savings of 225 kg per e-bike per year.” And looking to rural areas, another study found, “CO2 saving capability per person and per small area are highest (over 750 kg CO2 per person p.a.) for residents of rural areas and the rural urban fringe.” BWANH has urged NH Department of Environmental Services to make biking and other micro-mobility an important part of its climate change action plan.

    What we need to do

    We need to make our streets and roads safer for bicycling and walking. NH Department of Transportation, in its 2022-2026 Strategic Highway Safety Plan states, “The need for safe access for non-motorized transportation is increasing as roadways become more congested and as people make lifestyle, health, and/or financial choices that do not include automobile ownership. Increasing access to non-motorized transportation also helps connect more people with goods, services, active recreation opportunities, and jobs. However, while the number of non-motorized roadway users continues to increase in many communities, there is little to no infrastructure to support safe transportation of those users. As the demand for and use of these modes increase, the need for safe infrastructure and roadway user education does as well.”

    Many people feel that the best (safest) type of infrastructure for biking is bike paths or trails that are separated from auto traffic. Next best are bike lanes on roads that are shared with cars, if the bike lanes are protected with bollards or other physical barriers. Next are unprotected bike lanes (paint only). Intersections also need to be designed to make biking and walking safe.

    In cities, bike lanes can be good for business. See this recent article  on BWANH’s website.

    And bike lanes don’t have to create congestion for cars. Properly designed bike lanes can reduce travel times for cars; we’re not talking about cars moving faster, but rather reducing the time cars wait to make turns, etc.

    Another major part of safer streets and roads is slower speeds. Lowering speed limits alone doesn’t work; cities and towns need to redesign streets and roads to slow down traffic where people on bikes and/or on foot share the space with cars.

    Along with safer infrastructure, we all need to do a better job of sharing the road. People on bikes as well as drivers need to follow the rules of the road. Education is a major part of BWANH’s mission, and we offer a wide range of safety resources and training – for kids and adults on bikes and for drivers.

    To help BWANH in our work to make New Hampshire a better place for biking and walking, consider a donation. Increasing our membership helps us expand our work and have a greater impact. And please help spread the word and encourage your friends to become members and supporters of the Bike-Walk Alliance of New Hampshire.

  • It’s BIKE MONTH!

    Bike Month is here! Below are just a few of things you can do to celebrate:

    • Check out the BWANH Events Calendar here for a list of events happening all over the state.
    • Ride your bike on any or all of the days listed below.
    • Learn more about the statewide “Tour de New Hampshire” Guided Rail Trail Rides here.
    • Register for a Smart Cycling Class here.

     

  • Smart Cycling Class

    JOIN US FOR A SMART CYCLING CLASS!

    Saturday, May 25th (Memorial Day Weekend)  8:00am to 4:00pm

    Bike-Walk Alliance of NH is pleased to announce another in-person Safe Cycling Class for 2024!

    Taught by League of American Bicyclists (LAB) League Certified Instructors (LCI) Michael Frank & Paula Bedard.

    Course Description: This course is targeted at adults who have not ridden their bicycle for a while and want to start enjoying the benefits of cycling in the Monadnock region. The morning classroom session will cover “rules of the road” (laws), ensuring your bike is ready to ride, and the use of cycling infrastructure in the area. The afternoon on-the-bike session is dedicated to practicing safe cycling skills in an empty(no traffic) parking lot area. A short group road ride is included.

    The class is limited to 10 participants. Registration must be accomplished by 5/10/2024. A minimum of five participants is required.

    e-Bikes are WELCOME!

    LOCATION:  Keene Family YMCA
    200 Summit Rd
    Keene NH 03431

    Learn More & Register Online by clicking here –> bit.ly/SmartCyclingKeene

    For more information or questions, email class coordinator Mike Frank at –> Mike@mikebikestheUS.org

    Registration\class fee is $25.00 per person. A portion of class proceeds will be donated to the Bike-Walk Alliance of New Hampshire, New Hampshire’s statewide biking & walking advocacy organization. For more information on the Bike-Walk Alliance of New Hampshire, go to bwanh.org.

    NOTE: If you are planning on becoming a League Certified Safe Cycling Instructor (LCI), through the League of American Bicyclists, completing this class is a requirement. For more information on this, go to  the LAB website  here. –> bikeleague.org/ridesmart/become-instructor/.

  • Tour De New Hampshire: Guided Rail Trail Rides!

    Here is a great opportunity to discover the beauty of New Hampshire’s rail trails during National Bike Month (May!)

    This year, during National Bike Month (May), several advocacy organizations are partnering to provide a series of guided bicycle tours along the picturesque rail trails of the Granite State. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or new to biking, these Saturday tours, during the Bike Month are designed to celebrate the joy of cycling and showcase the natural beauty of New Hampshire’s incredible rail trail system.

    Bike-Walk Alliance of New Hampshire is partnering with organizations such as the Granite State Wheelers, the New Hampshire Rail Trails Coalition, the Southern New Hampshire and other regional planning commissions, to provide these free, guided rides each weekend during Bike Month, all over the state.

    Each weekend in May will highlight a different rail trail, allowing participants to explore a variety of landscapes and historical sites. These free guided rides are perfect for beginners, or anyone who has not been on their bike in a while, providing a safe and supportive environment to learn about cycling, rail trail etiquette, and the rich history of these scenic routes.

    Currently, these rail trails are tentatively scheduled:

    • Saturday, May 11: Trails of Manchester
    • Saturday, May 18: Presidential Rail Trail, Gorham
    • Sunday, May 26: Keene area rail trails

    Here’s a glimpse of what you can expect from these guided rail trail tours:

    • Scenic Routes: From rolling hills to serene lakeshores, each rail trail offers its own unique charm. Discover hidden gems and breathtaking views as you pedal through New Hampshire’s diverse landscapes.
    • Historical Landmarks: Learn about the rich history of the railroads that once traversed these trails. Our knowledgeable guides will share fascinating stories about the evolution of these routes and their significance to the region.
    • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Our tours are family-friendly, welcoming cyclists of all ages. Whether you’re riding solo, with friends, or bringing the whole family along, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
    • Supportive Environment: Don’t worry if you’re new to cycling or haven’t been on a bike in years. Our experienced guides will provide tips on bike handling, safety practices, and how to make the most of your rail trail experience.
    • Community Partnerships: We’re proud to partner with local organizations like the Granite State Wheelers and the New Hampshire Rail Trail Coalition to promote cycling and outdoor recreation in our communities. Together, we’re creating opportunities for people to connect with nature and lead active, healthy lifestyles.

    Join us this National Bike Month as we pedal our way through the beauty of New Hampshire’s rail trails. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely ride or a new adventure, our guided tours promise unforgettable experiences and lasting memories. Let’s celebrate the joy of cycling together!

    Stay tuned for more details on these upcoming rail trail tours and how you can participate. Happy cycling!

    Stay tuned to the BWANH EVENTS calendar on our website, or Facebook page, as the tour schedule is still being finalized! As always, feel free to email us at info@bwanh.org with any questions.

  • LCI Seminar in CT

    Attention New England Bike Advocates and Educators! Are you thinking about becoming a League Cycling Instructor (LCI)?  Simsbury, Connecticut, a lovely suburb of Hartford, CT and Silver-level Bicycle Friendly Community, is hosting an LCI Certification Seminar class on May 17-19, 2024. The 3-day seminar is led by League award-winning Coach Leta Highsmith. Click here to register for the Simsbury Connecticut LCI Seminar in May. Note that there are several requirements that must be met before being eligible to register for this seminar. Click here to learn about the Steps To Becoming an LCI.

    Are you interested in learning more about becoming a League Cycling Instructor?

    League Cycling Instructors (LCIs) are ambassadors for better biking through their education efforts. After earning certification through a three-day, League Coach-led seminar, LCIs can teach a variety of Smart Cycling classes to children as well as adults, helping them feel more confident and secure about riding. From our youth focused classes to our Bicycle Friendly Driver curriculum, LCIs can educate people who bike and drive how to safely and legally share the road.

    As a League Cycling Instructor, you could be the reason one more person chooses to hop on the saddle — and do so with confidence. LCIs have access to educational materials developed by the League and can take part in opportunities to meet other educators, continue their own education, and learn how to be an advocate for better biking in your community.

    You don’t have to be an extraordinary athlete or overachieving student to be a stellar LCI, all you need is the conviction that life is better for everyone when more people ride bikes.

    The League has certified more than 7,000 people as League Cycling Instructors. Are you next?  Click here on the League of American Bicyclists (LAB) website to learn more about the program.

     

     

     

  • Rail Trail Calendar Photo Contest

    The New Hampshire Rail Trail Coalition (NHRTC) 2024 rail trail calendar was such a success! Over 200 calendars were sold! Not bad for a first year event. There was so much buzz about the calendar that plans are already underway to create the rail trail calendar for next year – 2025. This is your chance to get out there on the rail trails and take your best shots. All the details on how to submit your rail trail  photos for the calendar photo contest are here on the New Hampshire Rail Trail Coalition’s website. If you use Facebook, consider liking\following the NHRTC Facebook page or the New Hampshire Rail Trail Challenge Facebook group.

     

     

  • NH Team @ Bike Summit 2024

    Thanks to our New Hampshire team of bike advocates attending the 3-day NATIONAL BIKE SUMMIT mid-March in our nation’s capital, Washington DC! Paul Susca representing BWANH, Bill Haine representing Granite State Wheelers, Marianne Borowski representing the New Hampshire Rail Trails Coalition and the Cross New Hampshire Adventure Trail, Tim Blagden representing the Concord Lake Sunapee Rail Trail & the Central New Hampshire Bicycling Coalition, Tammy Zamoyski representing  the Southern NH Regional Planning Commission. A bonus during this in-person trip was seeing spring flowers in bloom, including the historic cherry blossoms!