Choosing the Route
The route should be based on where students live, their biking abilities, and the safety of the environment. Start by reaching out to students and parents in your community to gauge interest. Once participants are identified, select a route that accommodates their needs.
Key considerations include:
1. Where do the students live? Choose a central meeting point or develop a route that allows for picking up students at different locations. For safety, start at locations with ample space for gathering and safe road access.
2. Is there bike infrastructure available? Utilise shared-use paths, protected bike lanes and other routes that are physically separated from car traffic whenever possible. If none are available, stick to roads with low traffic and speed limits.
3. Where are the safest places to cross? Choose crossings with traffic signals or stop signs for safe passage, especially near the school. Riders may need to walk their bikes at busy crossings or near crossing guards.
4. How long is the route? Estimate the commute time based on the age and skill level of your riders, ensuring a reasonable pace. You will need to leave earlier than you usually do on a regular day.
5. What happens when you arrive at school? Plan the entry and exit from the school carefully to avoid traffic. Riders may need to dismount to walk bikes on school grounds if necessary.
6. Where will the bikes be stored? Ensure the school has enough bike racks for secure storage, and students should bring their own locks.
Ride the route in advance with a very small number of students (e.g. your children) to establish how long it will take to get to school and to check for any possible challenges. If need be, make adjustments and do another test ride.