Trek urges American drivers to get on their bikes instead

The ‘Go By Bike Challenge’ pledge campaign is led by 1 World 2 Wheels, Trek’s cycling advocacy initiative. This challenges American drivers to put down their car keys and go by bike instead.

“The momentum for going by bike is undeniable,” said Trek’s director of advocacy, Rebecca Anderson.

“Growing traffic congestion; skyrocketing gas prices; alarming obesity rates; concerns about global climate change as the result of greenhouse gas emissions; there is interest all over the country for transportation alternatives.

"The bicycle, as arguably the most efficient mode of transportation on the planet, represents a simple solution to some of the toughest problems; and tons of communities are recognizing this fact by taking steps to become bike-friendly. There has never been a better time to go by bike.”

From July 17th through August 31st, 1world2wheels.org will accept ‘Go By Bike’ mileage pledges online, displaying a homepage ticker that tracks total miles pledged, money saved, calories burned, and pounds of carbon offset accumulated.

To promote the challenge, Trek will take out two full-page print ads in USA Today, and Trek’s network of independent bicycle dealers will ask customers to make in-store pledges. Each day of the campaign, one pledger will also be selected at random to receive a Trek 7.2 FX fitness hybrid bike, valued at $519.99.

According to a US National Personal Transportation Survey, nearly 40 percent of all trips taken by car are two miles or less.