Bicycling // Introduction

Bicycling
Whether you want to commute to work, recreate in the great outdoors, or just get in shape, bicycling offers a practical and enjoyable alternative to motorized travel. The Bicycling pages on this web site are designed to help you explore bicycling in Arizona. Whatever your level of expertise or interest may be, you'll find information to help you get the most out of your riding experience. From safety tips to local bicycling organizations and bicycle commuting to statewide cycling events, it's covered here.

Happy riding!
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Why Bike?

Benefits of Biking

• Use a non-polluting alternate mode of travel.

• Receive quality of life benefits: Improve your health and the air quality.

• Elevate your heart rate and get a cardiovascular workout.

• Choose an environmentally friendly activity.

• Enjoy a low-cost, practical way of getting around.

• Avoid traffic jams and the routine of driving.

• Slow down and observe your surroundings, the
neighborhood, and beautiful open spaces.

• Take in a panoramic view of the landscape.

• Go places that are not accessible by car.

• Gain a sense of freedom or feel the thrill of a challenging ride.
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DO YOU KNOW the difference between a Bike Lane and a Bike Route?

Answer:
A Bike Lane is part of a road that is specifically striped, signed, and marked for bicycle use.

A Bike Route is a good road for bicyclists to use but has no striping or pavement markings for bicyclists. NOW YOU KNOW.

Bikeway - A generic term for any road, street, or path specifically designated for bicycle travel, either exclusively or shared with other transportation modes.

Bike Route - A shared roadway designated by signing as a preferred route for bicycle use (has no striping or pavement markings).

Bike Lane - A portion of a roadway designated by striping, signing, and pavement markings for the preferential or exclusive use of bicyclists.

Shared Roadway -
A roadway open to both bicycle and motor vehicle travel.

Bike Path - See Shared-Use Path.

Shared-Use Path -
A path physically separated from any road or street. Pedestrians, skaters, wheelchair users, joggers, and other non-motorized users (equestrian) may also use shared-use
paths.

Sidewalk - The portion of a street designed for preferential or exclusive use by pedestrians.

Rail-Trail - A shared-use path, paved or unpaved, built within the right-of-way of an existing or former railroad.