As we get deeper into fall, it gets easier to justify putting your bicycle away for the winter, especially on crappy, rainy days like today. But they won’t all be like this. Keep your head up and your bike close at hand, and you can take advantage of several fall events in the C-U bike community. Here’s a quick primer on what’s coming up:
“LIGHT THE NIGHT” BIKE LIGHT CAMPAIGN (OCTOBER 15)
Feeling under-illuminated as the days get shorter? It’s only going to get worse on November 1, when we have to set our clocks back and your evening commute is suddenly in the dark.
But if you head to one of two campus locations tomorrow between 4:30 and 8:30 p.m. (see flyer at right) you can get outfitted for free. Thanks to the Campus Area Transportation Study (CATS) and Planet Bike, volunteers from the Bike Project will be installing 500 pairs of headlights and taillights on bikes — free of charge. These are light sets that we sell at the bike co-op for $18 (they have an even nicer headlight than last year), so by all means take advantage of this program.
The only catch is that you have to show up on your bike and have them installed there (no showing up and taking the light sets with you). Know someone who operates in permanent stealth mode? Send them a link to the Facebook invite.
CHAMPAIGN COUNTY BIKES ANNUAL MEETING (OCTOBER 22)
Would you like to ride your bike for transportation more, but are frustrated with the options available to you in Champaign County? Help to make things better. ChampaignCountyBikes.org (CCB) is committed to “Making Champaign County the Most Bicyclist Friendly County in the Midwest” through various advocacy activities, from producing bike route maps, producing the Share the Road bus, etc. They could use your help, and you can find out how at their annual meeting & potluck at a location TBD, so keep an eye on their website. The meal will start at 6 p.m. and the meeting will be from 7 to 9 p.m. They’ll be holding annual elections as well, so don’t miss out.
WOMEN’S ONLY NIGHT AT THE BIKE PROJECT (NOVEMBER 3)
Ladies and transgendered folks, take the opportunity to repair your bike in a welcoming environment. Head to the Bike Project (202 S. Broadway, enter by the south stairway to the basement of the IMC) from 6 to 9 p.m. on Tuesday, November 3, and give bike repair a try. Your first visit is free, and free child care will be available.
CHAMBANA CRANKSGIVING (NOVEMBER 14)
This second annual bike-propelled food drive to benefit Eastern Illinois Food Bank will be happening on Saturday, November 14. Last year, the local Cranksgiving collected more than 600 pounds of non-perishable food. Entry is free, and there will be great prizes and food from sponsors, as well as messenger games and an after-party. More info will be forthcoming as the event approaches.