Gresham offers rides, helmets as part of Bike Month festivities

May is Bike Month in Gresham, and the city is celebrating by offering opportunities to ride, volunteer and have fun throughout the month, said Laura Shepard, city spokeswoman.

Residents are invited to enjoy the more than 117 miles of bike lanes throughout Gresham, including the Springwater Corridor, Gresham Fairview Trail and the new Main City Park Spur Trail, connecting downtown Gresham with the Springwater Corridor.

Last year 177,643 bicyclists used Gresham’s segment of the Springwater Trail and 18,197 bicyclists used the Gresham-Fairview Trail, she said.

Also, the League of American Bicyclists named Gresham a Bicycle Friendly Community in 2010 for the city’s extensive network of bike-friendly routes, said Transportation Planning Manager Katherine Kelly. “Gresham repeatedly earns this honor by continually improving cycling infrastructure and providing activities for cyclists,” Kelly said.

Here’s a brief sampling of the bike-oriented offerings this month:

Bike to School Day — Wednesday, May 8

Bike or walk to school with classmates and teachers on Bike to School Day. To register your school visit walkbiketoschool.org.

Bike helmet sales — 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Saturday, May 11

Stop by the city’s booth at the Gresham Farmers Market and buy a helmet for $5.

Bike Appreciation Day — 6:30 to 8:30 a.m. Wednesday, May 15

Stop by Gresham City Hall, 1333 N.W. Eastman Parkway, for free breakfast treats provided by Jazzy Bagels.

All levels group bike ride — 10 a.m. Saturday, May 18

Join your friends and neighbors for a slow-paced, family-friendly ride. Meet at Main City Park at Springwater Trail. Visit GreshamOregon.gov/bikemonth for route information.

Experienced Riders Bike Ride — 10 a.m. Sunday, May 19

Join the Portland Wheelmen Touring Club on a 25-mile ride in the Gresham/Troutdale/Sandy River area. The group will take a break along the route where food or drinks may be purchased. Meet at Main City Park at Springwater Trail. Visit GreshamOregon.gov/bikemonth for route information.

Call Bud Rice at 503-667-0683 for more information.

To learn more about Bike Month and to view a complete list of events and volunteer opportunities, visit GreshamOregon.gov/bikemonth.