At DuVine, cycling isn’t just our livelihood—it’s our passion—and we’re committed to making it as safe and accessible as possible. “Whether you’re biking to work, to a friend’s house, or on tour with us, it’s simply the best way to travel,” says our Founder and CEO Andy Levine. “Streets should be for everyone—not just for cars—and communities should be designed with cycling in mind. But that has to be done thoughtfully.”
One organization leading the charge is the Massachusetts Bicycle Coalition (MassBike), a statewide nonprofit founded in 1977 to promote cycling as a safe, respected, convenient, and enjoyable form of both transportation and recreation.
Recently, Mass Bike’s executive director, Galen Mook, stopped by our Boston office to talk with the DuVine team about the coalition’s objectives and initiatives. Inspired by his visit—and in honor of National Bike Month—we’re taking a closer look at what exactly cycling advocacy entails, and how the movement is creating safer, healthier, more sustainable communities all over the world.
What is Bike Advocacy?
Cycling advocacy organizations like MassBike tend to be driven by a common goal: to improve biking conditions for all. These groups bridge the gap between local communities and lawmakers, championing bike-friendly policies and legislation at every level of government. They push for expanded infrastructure—think bike lanes, greenways, and improved intersection design—and work to raise awareness about the positive impacts of cycling on public health, the environment, and the economy.
Why is Bike Advocacy Important?
In our vehicle-dependent society, road design has traditionally prioritized speed over safety. But the projects and initiatives supported by cycling advocacy organizations aim to shift that focus, making streets safer for everyone—including drivers. Advocacy groups often promote the development of well-connected transportation networks, which can enhance overall mobility, increasing community engagement and bolstering local economies. Other initiatives contribute to climate goals by encouraging greener modes of transportation, while bike share programs help to expand access to cycling, making it more inclusive.
How to be a Cycling Advocate
The work of cycling advocacy organizations isn’t easy, and groups face myriad challenges—from funding constraints and bureaucratic red tape to navigating tension between communities and policymakers, overcoming systemic barriers to access, and rallying public support. Yet their strength lies in the people they bring together.
Ready to make a difference? Here are five tips to help you get started.
Cycling advocacy is a broad and far-reaching movement, but getting involved doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Start small—identify the issues you’re passionate about, then focus your energy on local initiatives and advocacy groups that align with those priorities. Is climate action important to you? Swapping your car for a bike just once a day can cut your transportation-related emissions by 67%. Want to see more kids riding bikes? Organize a bike-to-school parade or host a bike rodeo to inspire the next generation of bicyclists.
Whether you’re motivated to improve your town’s biking infrastructure or inspired by the mental health benefits of cycling, there are countless ways to get involved that reflect your values and interests.
As the saying goes, a rising tide lifts all boats. It’s a lot easier to make an impact when you’re part of an established group. Joining a local advocacy organization or cycling club is a great way to jumpstart your involvement and cultivate community support. Not sure how to find one? The League of American Bicyclists offers a search tool to help you locate groups and clubs in your area.
If participating in an organization isn’t feasible right now, consider making a donation. Financial contributions go a long way in ensuring the success of an advocacy campaign.
Change starts at the local level. Get to know your mayor, city council members, and state legislators and make biking a local priority by connecting through emails, phone calls, or in-person meetings, like town halls. These simple actions can have a big impact, showing officials that their constituents care about creating safe, bike-friendly communities.
To strengthen your case, know the data. Statistics on bike usage, accident rates, and the economic and environmental benefits of cycling can help turn a conversation into a call to action. The more informed you are, the more compelling your message will be to both policymakers and the public.
What unique skills can you bring to help power the advocacy movement? Are you a writer? Use your words to draft grant proposals, create promotional materials, or write op-eds and social media posts that amplify advocacy initiatives. Is event planning your forte? Organize a bike-themed movie night (The Bicycle Revolution is a great option!) or host a bike-to-work day breakfast. Handy with a wrench? Lead a bike repair clinic or offer free tune-ups at your local farmers market. Whatever your talents, there’s a way to lend a hand.
Every time you hop on your bike, you represent the cycling community—and show others that biking is a fun, healthy, and legitimate way to get around. One of the most powerful things we can do as bike advocates is to humanize cyclists. Small gestures like a smile or a wave can improve attitudes, reduce aggression, and even inspire others to ride.
Beyond the social impact, recreational cyclists contribute significantly to the economy—dropping upwards of $96 billion each year at coffee shops, cafés, breweries, boutiques, hotels, and more. This spending power sends a clear message to business owners and lawmakers alike: cyclists are valuable patrons, and investing in bike-friendly infrastructure is not just a quality-of-life improvement upgrade—it’s a smart economic move.
Prioritize safety by wearing a helmet, following traffic laws, and keeping your bike in good working order. Stick to designated trails and practice Leave No Trace principles when you’re cycling in natural areas. When you ride responsibly, you help to build a positive image of cycling, paving the way for a more bike-friendly world.
