Every May, communities across the United States celebrate National Bike Month—a time to embrace the joys of cycling, promote bike-friendly initiatives, and encourage healthier, more sustainable transportation. In Arkansas, this month is packed with events that bring together cyclists of all ages and skill levels.
The Origins of National Bike Month
National Bike Month was established in 1956 by the League of American Bicyclists (formerly the League of American Wheelmen) to promote cycling for transportation, recreation, and health. Initially focused on children’s safety, the observance has expanded over the decades to include events like Bike to Work Week and Bike to Work Day, aiming to encourage more people to consider cycling as a viable mode of transportation.
Arkansas Events for National Bike Month 2025
Arkansas offers a variety of events throughout May to celebrate National Bike Month. This is not a complete list, please check locally for bike rides and events:
May 4: National Bike Day – Little Rock & North Little Rock (link)
The Arkansas Bicycle Club invites riders to a 10–30 mile journey along the River Trail, starting at Two Rivers Bridge. Participants will explore scenic routes and enjoy a stop at Community Bakery.
May 7: Wrench Wednesday – Recycle Bikes for Kids (link)
Come lend a hand as we repair bikes for Recycle Bikes for Kids in North Little Rock! No experience is necessary—just bring your enthusiasm and a willingness to learn. Whether you’re a seasoned mechanic or new to the world of bike tools, you’ll pick up new skills while helping get bikes ready for kids in need.
May 9: 2nd Friday Art Ride – Little Rock (link)
A party pace ride through downtown Little Rock that’s all about fun, art, and community. The ride will take about 1.5 hours at a relaxed, social pace—perfect for all experience levels. Cyclists will roll out from in front of AMFA on 9th Street, cruising through downtown with stops at several stunning murals. The ride ends at the Old State House, where you can catch part of the concert by the Gravel Yard Band before heading back to AMFA.
May 16: Bike to Work Day – Central Arkansas (link)
Commuters are encouraged to ride their bikes to work this day. Bicycle Advocacy of Central Arkansas will be leading several bike caravans to meet-up in downtown Little Rock for breakfast snacks before heading off to work.
May 21: Ride of Silence – Ride to the Capitol (link)
The Ride of Silence is an annual international cycling event that honors cyclists who have been injured or killed while riding on public roadways. Participants engage in a silent, slow-paced ride—typically not exceeding 12 mph (20 km/h)—to raise awareness among motorists, law enforcement, and city officials about cyclists’ legal rights to share the road.
May 22: Bentonville Art Tour- Bentonville (link)
Explore Bentonville’s vibrant public art scene on a fun, relaxed-paced bike ride led by Tom Hoehn from the Bentonville Public Art Advisory Committee and co-host Jessica Pearson from Bentonville Moves Coalition. Along the way, you’ll discover some of the 140+ public artworks scattered throughout downtown.
May 24: Smart Cycling Class – Conway (link)
Want to build confidence on the road and trails? Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned rider, the Smart Cycling Class will give you the skills you need to ride safely, legally, and confidently in traffic and beyond.
🌟 Get Involved
Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or new to biking, National Bike Month is the perfect time to get involved. Participate in local events, consider commuting by bike, or simply enjoy a ride through your neighborhood. For more information on events and resources, visit the League of American Bicyclists’ website at https://bikeleague.org/events/bike-month/.
More information on active transportation in Arkansas is available from these Arkansas-based advocacy groups:
- Bentonville Moves Coalition
- Bicycle Advocacy of Central Arkansas
- Conway Advocates for Bicycling
- Northeast Arkansas Bicycle Coalition
This article was originally published on ArkansasOutside.com, your trusted source for outdoor news and updates in The Natural State. Unless otherwise credited, all photos included in this piece are the property of Arkansas Outside, LLC. We take pride in sharing the beauty and adventures of Arkansas through our lens—thank you for supporting our work!
