I would have agreed with you a few years ago. But having commuted by bike and learning bike-favorable routes into the city do exist (it just takes planning and awareness) I disagree that Providence is not bike-friendly. Certainly I would not advocate a small child or inexperienced rider to set out onto a busy city street and compete with the cars. There are certainly streets even I will not bicycle on – they are simply better suited to cars. However, where bicycling is encouraged (by green and white suggested bicycle route signs) it is certainly safe to ride, provided the rider educates him or herself on urban-specific cycling (it is different than riding on a bike path), obeys the law, wears bright clothing and uses caution and good sense. I ride all over Providence on busy streets and can tell you that Providence drivers tend to be more aware and careful with bicyclists than suburban and rural drivers.

Planning and prep are key – if you’re interested in trying it, hop on a bike train tomorrow or on summer Mondays, or contact any one of us bike train leaders for route information to try on your own. The state is interested in promoting safe passage for bicyclists – it’s up to us as bicyclists to help advise them on what kinds of things need to be done to make this happen. Come on out and see how easy it is!

Please note that folks who want to bike from Hope Valley should be prepared with spare tubes, and have some level of bike fitness as it is a 30 mile ride. If you are picking up the train between West Greenwich and Providence, it is only 15 miles, 8 of which are on the bike path, and is relatively flat.

The Hope Valley ride leaves I-95 exit 3 park and ride (on Kingstown Road, across from Job Lot) at 5:45 a.m., travels West on 138, and heads North on Route 3.

The West Greenwich ride leaves exit 7 park and ride (on New London turnpike just off 95) at 7 a.m., and heads North on New London Turnpike into West Warwick, picking up the bike path at Artic crossing. There are convenience stores, gas stations and bus routes along this route in case of emergency.)

Beginning riders are encouraged to join the bike train between West Greenwich and Providence.

Hope to see you Friday! And if you can’t do Friday, please note we will be doing the West Greenwich to Providence portion of this route EVERY Monday for the rest of May, June and July.