Hi, Debora!

Thanks for participating in the Bike2it! Challenge.

My name is Cherie Barnett and I'm the Outreach and Event Coordinator for the Sonoma County Bicycle Coalition.

In January of 2019 I began my own Bike2it! Journey as someone who had not ridden a bike as active daily transportation in over twenty years. 

It is my hope to share with you some helpful tools and tips to help get you rolling. If you are already actively biking to your daily destinations and have some tips to share feel free to email me and I'll add them to a future newsletter.

The first piece of knowledge I'm going to share in this newsletter has to do with getting a bicycle. I think its important to know there are several affordable options out there. I started out with a Univega Metro-three speed bike that I rescued from a scrap metal pile. I spent $40 to put new tires and tubes on my bike and then splurged by getting a front bike basket. From there a friend found me a used Univega 21 speed bike. I felt like I moved up to the big leagues with all the gear options and rear rack for hauling groceries.  The lesson learned was starting out with a used bike got me rolling on reliable two wheel transportation without breaking the bank.

Sonoma County has a number of organizations dedicated to helping folks get an affordable bike. You can visit our website for a list of resources to help you on your biking journey.

Join our Facebook group to chat with others and share pictures, questions, challenges, ideas, etc. By participating in this activity, you are saving the planet, improving your health, and hopefully having more FUN!

Lastly, I'm excited to announce we have a series new Smart Cycling classes starting this month! I highly encourage everyone who rides a bike to take these courses. For myself, I gained skills from these classes that I rely on daily for my bike commuting. 

It is my hope you get to celebrate this new spring season by being able to experience the beauty of Sonoma County on two wheels.

Pedal on!

750 Mendocino Avenue Suite 6 • Santa Rosa, CA 95401 • www.bikesonoma.org • 707-545-0153