Parent-led Bike Bus Resources

A Bike Bus brings kids and families together to bike to school along a designated route. Each Bike Bus is unique – some start in one location with a large gathering, while others pick up riders along the way. The number of participants can vary. Bike Buses may run weekly, daily, or even monthly. The heart of every Bike Bus is the same: the joy of riding together, getting kids safely to school, a strong sense of community, and a boost of positive energy.

5 Benefits of Bike Bus (though there are many more!)

• Health and Well-being: Cycling to school promotes physical activity, contributing to children's health and well-being.
• Community Connections: Bike Buses facilitate social interaction among students, families, and volunteers, strengthening community bonds.
• Environmental Benefits: Bike Buses reduce car traffic around schools and decrease noise pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, and air pollution.
• Increased Safety and Awareness: Riding in a group is safer than riding alone because it makes children more visible to drivers. Bike Bus participants also gain practical experience with road safety and awareness.
• Climate Action: Bike Buses are a positive way to promote sustainable transportation and address climate change issues. 
   

10 Tips for Starting Your Own Bike Bus

1. Plan your route - Choose a safe and convenient route that considers where families and volunteers live.
2. Be consistent - Pick a day and time and try to stick to it, making small adjustments as needed. Keeping to a set schedule and route makes the riding easier over time.
3. Build Your Team - You need to start somewhere! Find families who want to be involved and parents who can help lead the rides.
4. Keep it inclusive - You'll have riders of different abilities, so plan extra time for the ride.
5. Keep it fun - Play music, make signs, and boost the fun factor. Making the Bike Bus more visible will also encourage more people to join.
6. Be prepared - Think about alternative routes or solutions in case of road construction, adverse weather, etc.
7. Spread the word - Tell your school community about the Bike Bus! Reach out through newsletters, flyers, signage, announcements, and chats at drop-off and pick-up points.
8. Special events - Special rides and events, like Earth Day bike decorating and winter hot chocolate, will keep the kids excited to ride.
9. Get support - While a Bike Bus can start small, funding can help you grow. You can partner up with a local bike shop or cafe for sponsorship. Some municipalities also have active travel grants.
10. Bike To School Week or similar initiatives - Sign up for Bike to School Week to promote your Bike Bus and get more kids on board.

Sign-up to receive updates on upcoming webinars, resources, and additional support in starting your own Bike Bus!