Events planned throughout Carson City for Bike Month

Cycling advocates, enthusiasts and beginners will take to the streets in coming weeks as Carson City joins in National Bike Month, with events planned throughout May, including bicycle art exhibits at Artsy Fartsy.

The kick-off ride the Tour de Carson, leaving from the Bike Habitat, 911 Topsy Lane #238, at 9:30 a.m. Sunday. Registration begins at 9.

“It’s a ride that showcases all the areas of Carson City, from the rolling terrain of the east side, the industrial north then along the bike path through west Carson City and back,” said Denis Coyne, owner of the Bike Habitat, who will be leading the ride. “There’s a little taste of everything.”

While participants need not be experts, he said, they should be fit enough with a bike suited to ride the 27 miles at a moderate pace. Lunch and refreshments will be provided after the ride, which coincides with the Bike Habitat’s sixth anniversary.

“It’s really kind of a gift back to the community to celebrate cycling in Carson City and thank the cyclists of Carson City,” he said.

For those looking for a more leisurely ride, Muscle Powered — Citizens for a Walkable and Bikeable Carson City, has developed a full schedule of events for 2013, including two family cruise rides. The first will be 6 p.m. May 15 starting at Telegraph Square, and a second Ride with a Vet on will begin at 2:30 p.m. May 18 in conjunction with Chapter 388 of the Vietnam Veterans of America.

Jenny Scanland is leading Slow Spokes Rides every Wednesday at 5:15 p.m. through June, leaving from the Bryan Building, 901 S. Stewart St., which will focus on the basics of commuter bicycling.

The highlight of the month will be the Bike to Work Week Corporate Challenge on May 13-17, where cyclists compete individually or as groups of co-workers for most miles ridden during the week.

During that week, Bike to Work Day will May 17, with commuter stations are set up for cyclists with a helmet at LA Bakery, Comma Coffee, Bistro at Bryan and San Rafael Coffee Company.

The biggest change to this month’s line-up, said Muscle Powered’s Kelly Clark, is party to celebrate the end of Bike Week, where awards will be presented for the Commuter Challenge, along with other activities.

The party is traditionally held the Friday evening of Bike Week. This year, it will be Saturday.

“Friday night just wasn’t working for families,” Clark said. “We want entire families to come out to the party.”

The party will feature raffle prizes, including two beach cruisers, along with music and food from local vendors. Bike races and obstacle courses will also be available for children.

“We’re inviting families to come down, bring their bikes and be prepared to have a lot of fun,” Clark said.