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Biking is a low-impact activity promoting natural movement

Peddling in the cool perfume of budding cherry blossoms and redbuds so often found on city streets this time of year offers a number of wellness benefits. “Cycling for fun and transportation is an easy way to add physical activity into your day,” says Sarah Taylor Watts, MPA, Physical Activity Coordinator, of Iowans Fit for Life. “Riding your bicycle as a form of transportation is not only an easy way to be active, but is also a great way to save money.”

“We see our community differently from behind handlebars. We notice different things, including people, and can stop to interact with them in ways that are not possible when people drive in cars or other vehicles,” says Carl Voss, director of the Des Moines Bicycle Collective. “We not only see, but also hear and smell our surroundings.”

Complete Streets: important for city planning

According to the League of American Cyclists, Iowa ranks sixth in the country for bicycle friendliness. This comes as little surprise given we host the world’s oldest long-distance bike ride, RAGBRAI.

Iowa’s bicycle friendliness report card shines in the categories of education & encouragement (A) and enforcement (A), which carried us into the top 10. However, we fall short in evaluation & planning (F) and legislation (D).

So how can Iowa become more bicycle friendly?

Cedar Falls, Des Moines and Iowa City have been recognized by the League of American Cyclists for their work in trail expansion and development, bike libraries and the first steps in implementing a Complete Streets policy, a plan that ensures all users—bicyclists, motorists and pedestrians—safely share the road. Public transportation, safe cross walks, bike lanes and access to local businesses are all taken into consideration in a comprehensive Complete Streets plan.

But Complete Streets plans are not exclusive to urban areas. These policies can help small town governments implement their vision with the Iowa Department of Transportation to ensure that safe and attractive multi-use highways intersect and surround the town. Complete Streets cities improve the health of citizens and strengthen local business at the same time.

Keep safety in mind

Looking for a safe bike route near you? The Iowa Department of Transportation, the Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation and the Iowa Bicycle Coalition offer information on bike trails throughout the state. These same organizations also offer resources for those interested in developing safe bike routes and trails within their community. (See the Biking Resources section below for a complete list.)

Knowing the rules of the road is an important first step in bike safety. Attend a local bicycle rodeo or review one of many online bicycle safety videos that provide the basics you need to ride safely.

The Iowa Department of Transportation offers a short list of bicycle rules of the road along with educational material free of charge. Some simple tips to keep you safe:

1. Ride with traffic and obey traffic signals and signs.
2. Follow lane markings.
3. Be bright. Using a light at night helps you see the road and helps drivers see you.
4. Be conspicuous. Wear bright clothing and make eye contact with drivers.
5. Protect your head. Wearing a helmet saves lives.