For the past nineteen years we have collaborated in many meaningful bicycle advocacy initiatives across North America. This year was no exception as we continued to partner with advocates on key national initiatives as well as many locally-targeted programs that focus on getting more people on bikes.

On the national level, we continued our support of the fourth annual Youth Bike Summit. The three day gathering attracted spirited participation from nearly 500 youth and adults from 25 states and three countries who are at the center of a growing movement to develop and inspire the next generation of bicycle advocates. Collectively, the group explores how kids can create positive social change and how bicycling can be a part of a sustainable future.

Again this year we teamed up with the Adventure Cycling Association to lend a hand with their “Build It. Bike It. Be a Part of It.” Campaign that raised over $147,000 for the U.S. Bicycle Route System (USBRS). The funds will be used to establish a network of interstate routes that connect America’s cities, suburbs and rural areas. When completed, the USBRS will be the largest official cycling route network on the planet!

On the local level, we are energized by the fact that communities across the country are embracing bicycles and building infrastructure to make our cities and towns more livable. In an effort to broaden this progress, we supported fifteen Earn-a-Bike programs across the country helping to empower kids to fix, earn, use and enjoy bicycles. We have continued our support of WE Bike NYC. Their programs have motivated women across the five boroughs to begin biking by educating them on bike safety and maintenance. Additionally, we provided lights to fifteen “Be Bright” initiatives which raise awareness about safe cycling and provide free lights to those in need.

For nearly two decades, we are proud of the part we have played to help make our communities more bicycle-friendly. More importantly, we are continually fueled by the energy, commitment and intelligence of the countless individuals and organizations who work tirelessly to improve conditions for bicyclists and, as a direct result, improve the health of individuals, communities and the planet.