April 30, 2025. Reno, Sparks, Nev. – May is National Bike Month, a time to celebrate the many benefits of bicycling and encourage more people to give biking a try.

Bike Month is an opportunity to highlight biking as a fun, affordable, and environmentally friendly transportation option. Regular cycling improves physical health, reduces traffic congestion, supports cleaner air, and fosters vibrant communities. Whether commuting, exercising, or just riding for fun, every pedal stroke contributes to a healthier future for Northern Nevada.

In collaboration with Regional Transportation Commission (RTC), Truckee Meadows Bicycle Alliance, Reno Public Market, Midtown Reno and Travel Pineapple, Northern Nevada Public Health (NNPH) invites community members to celebrate healthy living, sustainability, and safe cycling at Biketopia – Ride Reno Spin Sparks, on Saturday, May 17, 2025, from noon-3 p.m. at the Reno Public Market.

This free, family-friendly event gives residents the chance to connect with local organizations and access resources to participate safely in Bike Month activities. Attendees can look forward to:

• Bike Information & Education: Learn about safe riding practices, local biking resources, and community programs.
• Bike Checks: Make sure your bike is in top condition with a basic safety inspection.
• Helmet Fittings: Experts will ensure your helmet fits properly to help reduce the risk of head injury.
• Giveaways & Prizes: Win exciting bike-related prizes and gear to enhance your riding experience!

“I hope everyone has a chance to hop on a bike and explore the beauty that is Northern Nevada,” said Chad Kingsley, MD, District Health Officer for Northern Nevada Public Health. “Whether you’re an experienced cyclist or new to biking, the Biketopia event is an amazing opportunity to gear up, learn new tips, and connect with other riders. Celebrate Bike Month with us and take a step toward healthier living and a greener community!”.

NNPH is also excited to promote the Commuter Challenge, sponsored by RTC Smart Trips. This challenge encourages community members to track their cycling, measure their emissions reduction, and compete in teams for the most miles cycled throughout May!

In addition, a variety of local events hosted by community partners including Truckee Meadows Bicycle Alliance, Reno Bike Project, Kiwanis Bike Program, RTC, and Safe Routes to School will take place throughout the month.

NNPH Air Quality Management District (AQMD) supports Bike Month

NNPH-AQMD’s Keep it Clean – Rack Em Up program encourages residents to choose cycling over driving to reduce ozone pollution and improve air quality in Washoe County.

Rack Em Up promotes safe and enjoyable biking. Did you know that motor vehicles are the largest source of ozone pollution in Washoe County? In fact, short motor vehicle trips are a big source of emissions due to “cold starts,” and for every mile pedaled on a bike instead of driven, nearly one pound of carbon monoxide is saved.

This initiative aligns perfectly with National Bike Month in May, offering a timely opportunity to embrace cycling for both personal health and environmental benefits.

Find more info about Rack Em Up and other bike safety tips here: https://www.nnph.org/programs-and-services/air-quality/rack-em-up.php

National Bike Month is celebrated in communities across the country to showcase the many benefits of bicycling and inspire more people to make biking part of their daily lives. To learn more about local events and resources, visit BikeMonthWashoe.org.

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Please note the Washoe County Health District changed its name to Northern Nevada Public Health on Aug. 31, 2023. More information is here.

Northern Nevada Public Health (NNPH) is nationally accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board and has jurisdiction over all public health matters in Reno, Sparks, and Washoe County through the policy-making District Board of Health. NNPH consists of five divisions: Administrative Health Services, Air Quality Management, Community and Clinical Health Services, Environmental Health Services and Epidemiology & Public Health Preparedness. More info can be found here.