BAKERSFIELD, Calif.(KBAK/KBFX) — Dozens of cyclists took to the streets Tuesday night, not just to celebrate Cinco de Mayo, but to bring awareness to bike safety in Bakersfield.
The ride is part of a series of events hosted by Bike Bakersfield throughout the month of May, which is recognized as National Bike Month.
“May is officially bike month, so throughout the month, there are gonna be specific events that coordinate with bike safety and bike awareness—and remembering those we’ve lost,” said Michael Parra, event coordinator with Bike Bakersfield.
Parra says the organization hosts regular rides to bring the community together and encourage more people to get on their bikes.
“Riding bikes is enjoyable, it’s friendly, it’s welcoming,” he said.
Bike Bakersfield hosted a Cinco de Mayo full moon ride at Beach Park to kick off National Bike Month this May. (KBAK/KBFX)
For some riders, biking has become part of their routine.
“I’ve never had a driver make me feel unsafe. I obviously try to stick to the bike lanes and off to the side of the road and watch my surroundings. But I typically feel pretty easy,” said Trisha Dobson, a Bakersfield resident.
Still, safety remains a concern.
Dobson said she knows someone who was hit by a car while riding a bike and later died.
Parra says he’s experienced the dangers firsthand.
“I’ve been hit before. I’ve gotten in a scuffle once or twice, but usually I’ve known people to get into serious accidents,” he said.
Despite those experiences, Parra says conditions for cyclists in Bakersfield have improved.
“I would say it has gotten extremely better, especially with the striping along major highways,” he said.
The City of Bakersfield has changed the bike lanes on “A” Street to be bright green. Photo: City of Bakersfield
He added that taking proper precautions is key to staying safe.
“We always want to make sure that people are wearing helmets if they are under the age of 18. Be sure to wear reflective gear, have lights so that you’ll be seen, and be safe,” Parra said.
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Bike Bakersfield has several upcoming events planned throughout the month:
Bike to Work Day Commuter Stands — Friday, May 15, starting at 6:30 a.m. at Beach Park and along the Kern River Parkway Bike Trail across from CSUB. Riders will receive free snacks and drinks.Annual Ride of Silence — Wednesday, May 20. Meet at Café Smitten at 6:30 p.m., with the ride beginning in silence at 7:00 p.m. to honor cyclists injured or killed on roadways.
As Bike Month continues, cyclists say safety on the road depends on everyone.
“Both the bikers and the drivers have a responsibility to watch out for each other,” Dobson said.