Wheel Change

The San Francisco Bicycle Coalition is here to let everyone know that life on two wheels really can be better. Sure, city cyclophobes are swelling their ranks faster than you can say "Mission hipster," but think of all the benefits of owning a bike: You don't have to worry about parking spaces or delayed buses, braving the hills is always good for the gams, and there probably isn't any other sensation in the world quite as exhilarating as the wind in your hair as you zip across town. The San Francisco Bicycle Coalition’s Family Day lets the tykes join in on the pedaling action, adding to the summer citywide activities focused on getting families out of their cars and off their asses. Family Day includes a "Freedom from Training Wheels" demonstration for the tricycle set, a coming-of-age ritual that stewards tots from apprehension to "two wheels are better than one" triumph. While the "Bike Road-eo" sounds like a nice occasion to pop a wheelie and wow the crowd with your moves, don't attempt anything too perilous — it’s actually an opportunity to learn all the basics of bike safety. Bring your tandems, unicycles, choppers, and low-riders for the event's culminating bike parade through the noncar area of Golden Gate Park, in celebration of one of life's simplest pleasures.
Sat., Sept. 6, 10 a.m., 2008