Bicycle Film Festival is coming back to Madison at Barrymore Theatre with a curated screening of short films that celebrate the bicycle on October 1st, 2026.
BFF Madison presents international short film programs that appeal to film connoisseurs, avid cyclists, and everyone in between. Curated documentaries, narratives, animations, award-winning directors, and emerging talents all share equal billing.
It’s Bicycle Film Festival’s 26th year celebrating bicycles through art, film, and music. Over the past 26 years, the BFF has spanned the world to an audience of one million people in over 100 cities worldwide.
In 2001, Brendt Barbur founded the Bicycle Film Festival after being hit by a bus while cycling in New York City. What began as a personal journey became a global celebration of cycling through stories featuring leading voices in art, film, music, and advocacy. 26 years later, the BFF has reached over one million people in more than 100 cities from Paris, Tokyo, Mexico City to Cape Town, Istanbul, and beyond. Hosted in iconic venues like the Sydney Opera House and the Barbican in London, BFF shines a light on cycling culture. We are enthusiastic to bring it back to Madison this year.
Buy your tickets now before prices increase on September 7th!
This week we have a memorial ride, some opportunities for street safety and public involvement in trail connection projects, a commuter station, and an upcoming transportation challenge.
Memorial Ride
Team Wisconsin Cycling is hosting a memorial ride honoring the memory of Haylan Engdahl, who raced with and was part of the Wisconsin cycling community. The ride will start in Root Common Park in Wauwatosa on August 26th, at 6pm.
Last week, a heartbreaking crash killed Haylan and his Milligan University teammate Brayden Rogers, and injured other members of their cycling team, when a driver struck them from behind on Highway 19E in Carter County, Tennessee, while they were on a training ride.
Our hearts are heavy, and our thoughts are with Haylan and Brayden’s families, their teammates, and everyone who loved them. He was one of us. Someone who got on a bike, rode the routes we ride, and trusted, as we all do, that a training ride would end the way it started. That trust shouldn’t be too much to ask. Until our roads are safe enough to guarantee it, we’ll keep showing up, keep riding, and keep pushing for the change that’s long overdue.
Have Your Say on Traffic Safety
There are two chances this week to weigh in on making Madison’s streets safer:
Shape Downtown Streets: Traffic Safety Meeting with D2 Alder Will Ochowicz Join Alder Will Ochowicz of District 2 for an in-person discussion about traffic safety in the downtown area. City transportation and planning staff will be on hand to hear from the public as they begin work on the Downtown Area Plan. Tuesday, August 25, 6:00–8:00 PM — Room 215, Madison Municipal Building
WisDOT Safer Together Community Event WisDOT and transportation partners — including Madison Metro, AAA, Operation Lifesaver, and the Wisconsin Bike Federation — host an afternoon of safety demonstrations and education for drivers, pedestrians, cyclists, and transit riders alike. Expect a State Patrol K-9 meet-and-greet, automated vehicle and drone inspection demos, a Madison Metro ride-along, and kids’ activities. Wednesday, August 26, 4:00–6:00 PM — Rennebohm Park (Rescheduled from an earlier date — accessible via Metro bus; limited street parking.)
Bike Paths to Nowhere
Right now, both of these multi-use trail segments simply dead-end. One stops short at a field south of UW Digestive Health, and the other ends near Lionello Court along CTH MM. These projects would finally extend them, turning isolated stretches of path into real, useful connections. There are opportunities this week to weigh in on the designs of both.
Proposed shared-use path extending the existing University Crossing Bike Path | City of Madison
Old Middleton Road Underpass of WSOR Railroad The City of Madison is proposing a shared-use path extending the existing University Crossing Bike Path toward Old Middleton Road and Craig Ave, including a new underpass beneath the WSOR Railroad. Design is underway this summer, with construction targeted for summer–fall 2027. Wednesday, August 26th, 6:00 PM — Virtual (Zoom) Registration required
County Highway MM Pedestrian/Bicycle Underpass The City of Fitchburg is planning a new underpass beneath CTH MM, extending the existing trail segment along the east side of the highway near Lionello Court. The project includes a new precast concrete box culvert, roadway reconstruction, and a new trail on the west side of MM, with construction targeted for summer 2027. It’s not clear whether this would extend the trail all the way to the Cap City Trail crossing near McCoy Rd, but we can all learn more on Thursday: Thursday, August 27th, 5:30–6:30 PM — Fitchburg Fire Station #3, 2950 S. Syene Road, Fitchburg
Ice Cream Commute
We’re sad to have missed Ride the Drive this year, but Summer isn’t over yet and we want to host a little something to show appreciation for commuters (and all cyclists)! To add to a very jam-packed Wednesday agenda, Madison Bikes will be hosting a Summer commuter station on Wednesday, August 26th, at 4:30pm. We will be hanging out at Bernie’s Beach off of S Shore Dr (along the John Nolen Drive detour), giving away free ice cream while supplies last. If you need one, or just you got a new helmet, we’ll also have free Bike Benefits stickers that get you tons of awesome discounts at local businesses. Stop by on your commute or just go out for a lake loop, and we’ll see you there.
RoundTrip Smart Trips Challenge: September 1-30
RoundTrip Greater Madison’s fourth annual Smart Trips Challenge, September 1-30, celebrates sustainable, affordable, and healthy transportation choices. Replace as many drive-alone trips as you can with carpooling, bicycling, riding the bus, and walking or rolling for chances to win weekly and grand prize drawings.
The Smart Trips Challenge is free and open to everyone ages 18+ in Dane County. To participate, register with RoundTrip and log your eligible trips all month for chances to win. There will be 20+ prize drawings and the first 50 to log a trip receive $10 to Ian’s Pizza.
Prize sponsors include One Social District, Machinery Row Bicycles, Friends Applaud Tavern & Cafe, Monk’s Bar & Grill, Giant Jones Brewing, Marigold Kitchen, Madison Bikes, and Metro Transit. The Smart Trips Challenge is hosted by RoundTrip, a public program of the Greater Madison MPO that supports alternatives to driving alone in Dane County.
We should be designing our streets for the future that we want to build. The decisions made in the Regent St design will impact the way that we move around our city for the next 30+ years. At Madison Bikes, we believe parking should never take priority over people. We also believe in standing up for vulnerable road users when they are not given enough consideration. On July 16th, Madison Bikes shared the following statement with city staff:
Dear City of Madison Staff,
On June 9th, 2026, Madison Common Council unanimously approved a redesign of Regent St that excludes dedicated bicycle facilities despite the clear priorities established in the Complete Green Streets (CGS) policy. Complete Green Streets, a framework for street design adopted by the city in 2023, identifies safe accommodations for people biking and walking/rolling as a higher priority than on-street parking.
In the Regent St redesign, city staff and leaders had the opportunity to leverage the CGS guidance to create a new paradigm for street design in Madison. Instead, the policy was used to double down on the status quo, prioritizing parking and vehicle convenience over vulnerable road users.
This decision comes at a time when traffic violence continues to devastate our community. In recent months, Madison has lost multiple vulnerable road users, including 17-year-old Sasha Rosen, killed while crossing Park St, and Ken Bell, killed while crossing E. Washington Ave. In the face of these preventable tragedies, the city should be strengthening protections for people who walk and bike, not retreating from them.
The approved design abandons the guidance in at least 5 ways without including a checklist or justification for the decisions:
CGS says loading zones should be provided “around the corner on intersecting minor streets.” The proposed geometry has loading zones only on Regent St itself.
CGS says that bike lanes “should be included and may require consideration of parking options on side streets or in structured parking” and the proposed geometry has no bike lanes.
CGS says Community Main Streets must have a maximum lane width of 10′ (CGS guide, page 60). The proposed geometry has 14′ lanes, wider than an Interstate highway.
CGS says that Regent St should prioritize large canopy trees, (CGS guide, page 27) however more full canopy trees could have been included if not for street parking.
CGS says that for Transit Priority Networks, “designs will prioritize in-lane stops that do not require buses to merge back into traffic.” The proposed geometry includes bus pull-outs instead.
The Common Council received several alternative proposals, and despite vocal and widespread opposition to the adopted plan, unanimously voted against the city’s own design policy. While the plan is an improvement from the existing configuration, it’s not the best we can do. The adopted plan could lead to higher traffic speeds, enable more dangerous driving behavior, and encourage biking on the sidewalk. All of this could create a more hostile environment for people who are trying to access the businesses and amenities on Regent St. Madison Bikes is deeply disappointed in this decision and urges city leaders to reconsider it.
Unfortunately, this is not an isolated incident. Madison has previously approved street designs that deviate from its own CGS principles, undermining public trust and calling into question the city’s commitment to its stated transportation and safety goals:
After four years of tumult, Midvale resurfacing is now going ahead without bike lanes called for in city plans since 1975. This is a HUGE missed opportunity and sets back bike/ped safety on the near West side by 10-20 years.
A road diet on Mineral Point Rd east of Midvale is also facing pushback due to the same political forces as Midvale.
Current plans for the North-South BRT do not have accommodations for bicycle facilities despite Park St having many destinations and a lack of alternatives to reach them. This includes the segments of Park St where bus/bike lanes were re-signed to be “bus only”, without getting the required input or approval from TC.
Madison Bikes calls on city leaders to establish a clear process for using the CGS checklist, including justification for any departures from the requirements, reverse the decision to exclude bicycle facilities from the Regent St project, and recommit to the city’s Vision Zero goal of eliminating traffic deaths and serious injuries. Madison Bikes also asks that we be included and consulted on future street redesign projects so we can ensure vulnerable road users are given appropriate consideration.
Madison Bikes requests that, at the minimum, the city fix the last block problem for bicyclists. The last block problem is akin to the last mile problem in transit: how do you complete a multimodal trip? In the case of Regent St, bicyclists were repeatedly told the SW Path was just a block away from Regent St so there should not be a problem getting to destinations on Regent St. The problem with that assumption is: how are bicyclists supposed to make the transition from biking to walking to get to a destination on Regent St and where will they park?
There are currently only twelve public bike parking spaces on or near Regent St (4 on Orchard St and 8 on Regent St) and few Regent St properties provide bike parking. There are also no bike share stations on or directly adjacent to Regent St. Will new development projects for Regent St require adequate public bike parking to serve area businesses and visitors to the housing units? Will additional bike parking be added on the side streets near Regent St or perhaps in back of businesses? Without a bike parking plan, the current plan will encourage bicyclists to ride on the sidewalk (which is illegal on Regent St where buildings abut the sidewalk) and lock their bikes to sign posts. Both undermine the efforts to make Regent St more pedestrian friendly. The current plan lacks consideration for visitors and residents traveling by bike, and dismisses the need for bicycle facilities because there are intersecting bike routes and a wide sidewalk.
Policies only matter if they are consistently followed. Madison residents deserve streets that reflect the city’s commitments to safety, sustainability, and transportation choice.
This week in Madison Bikes news: where the candidates for Governor stand on bike issues, a call for volunteers along the SW Path, plenty of group rides to join, and some news on street design from John Nolen Drive to Regent Street.
Gubernatorial Candidates on Active Transportation
2026 is an important year, with an ongoing race for Governor. You might be wondering where the candidates stand on active transportation issues like bike infrastructure, trail funding, and e-mobility. The Wisconsin Bike Fed sent all candidates from both parties a policy questionnaire and compiled the responses into a two-part summary.
The good news: candidates who responded (Barnes, Crowley, Hong, Rodriguez, and Roys) largely agree on restoring Wisconsin’s Complete Streets law, allowing eminent domain for bike/ped paths, and fully funding the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program. Where they differ is more nuanced: traffic safety cameras, how to regulate e-motos, and how to plug the long-term funding gap at the DNR.
The primary election is August 11, 2026 — mark your calendar.
Invasive Plant Cleanup Crew
Invasive species reduce biodiversity by outcompeting native species and taking over ecosystems. This causes a ripple effect that harms ecosystems and makes them less resilient, and can be damaging to services humans rely on like soil fertility and fresh water. You can help, however, in preserving native plans and removing invasive ones here in our city along a core bike facility:
Are you interested in preserving native plants along the SW Path? Would you like to help remove non-native plants like garlic mustard and dames rocket along the SW Path? If yes, please join the SW Path Invasive Plant Removal Team google group.
The group is for people interested in removing invasive non-native plants and maintaining native plants along the SW Path in Madison, WI, from the Beltline to Midvale Boulevard and in the Odana Woods along the SW Path connector. People can post information about work parties, techniques for removing troublesome invasive species, native species to plant, plant identification, webinars, seminars, City of Madison Programs, and any other information about maintaining native plants along the SW Path.
For questions or to join the group, send an email to Mark Shahan at mnshahan@gmail.com.
Group Rides
Summer is in full swing, meaning there are plenty of group rides to join. Cycling fans will be aware that the Tour de France started on Saturday with an exciting team time trial, and those who feel inspired to get out and ride might consider joining one of the following:
Mondays at 6pm, join Cap City Cyclists on their weekly social ride. Wednesdays, join the Capital Brewery E- Bike Club Group Ride (5:30 pm) or the Motorless Motion Taco Ride (6 pm). Or join Machinery Row for their weekly Friday Lunch Bunch E-bike ride (11 am), or their Sunday Century Training Club ride (8am).
Build for the Future We Want
As construction on the John Nolen Drive causeway progresses, the next phase just to the South is already on our minds, and we want to make sure it’s designed safely and appropriately. Board member Craig Weinhold shared this piece of information:
Remember how in late 2024, the City did a lane reduction test on John Nolen Drive between Olin and the causeway? The hypothesis was that there there was little value in having three lanes between Olin Ave and the two-lane causeway. Well, the City’s results were great and proved the hypothesis, but… the City is being told they must stick to three lanes anyway because WisDOT doesn’t like “expected future conditions in 2050.” You can follow this amazing exchange at 1:35:20 into the June 17 Transportation Commission meeting.
A two-lane John Nolen Drive north of Olin Avenue has many benefits: space for a west side path, Wingra Creek underpass improvements, more buffer around the railroad tracks, and less aggressive behavior as drivers enter/leave the causeway. As T.C. and Madison Bikes member Harald Kliems reacted, “We should build the types of streets for the future that we want” and that if we build a bigger street to handle increased volume, then “that’s what we’re going to get.“
Building for a future that’s less dependent on cars is exactly what we need to do, but we’re still facing the reality that cars and parking are being prioritized over vulnerable road users. Last month, Common Council unanimously approved a redesign of Regent Street that excludes dedicated bicycle facilities despite the clear priorities established in the Complete Green Streets policy. Complete Green Streets, a framework for street design that was adopted by the city in 2023, identifies safe accommodations for people biking and walking/rolling as a higher priority than on-street parking, yet the approved design abandons that guidance without a transparent or well-defined variance process. Among several other variances, the proposed design has 14′ traffic lanes (which are wider than an interstate highway!) and keeps lanes for parking on both sides of the street.
The Common Council had several alternative plans available, and despite vocal and widespread opposition to the adopted plan, unanimously voted for it and against the city’s own design policy. The adopted plan will lead to higher traffic speeds, allow for more dangerous driving behavior, and create a more hostile environment for people who are trying to access the businesses and amenities on Regent Street. The City should be strengthening protections for people who walk and bike, not retreating from them.
Bikers stop at the Majestic Theater during the Neon Demo and Walking Tour, one of the first events of Bike Week 2026.
After months of planning and anticipation, Madison Bike Week is finally here! We are so excited to celebrate all things biking with a record-breaking 90+ events including coffee stops, group rides, discounts, parties, educational sessions, demonstrations, and more!
Bike Week is not only a time for getting out and having fun on your bike; it’s also a time for coming together as a community. When your only option is driving, you are more closed off from the world, which I believe is a major contributor to the growing feeling of distance from one another in society. On the other hand, biking allows you the freedom to see and experience the world around you. On the bike, it’s easy to stop and talk to a friend, wave to your neighbors, or pop into a store on a whim, all while getting around in a human-powered, eco-friendly way.
This Bike Week, we hope you have tons of fun, enjoy the events, and most importantly, find time to connect with one another.
Bike Week Features
While all of the Bike Week events can be found on the agenda, here are a few highlights you won’t want to miss:
Monday, June 1: Join the Ride with the Mayor following a press conference at the Madison Municipal Building.
Tuesday, June 2: Talk growth, housing, and transportation with city staff at Path to the Future.
Wednesday, June 3: This is the busiest day of Madison Bike Week, with over 15 events: Pick from one of several morning and afternoon bike stations, or come dance at Beets x Beats on the Bike Path!
Thursday, June 4: Visit one of 5+ commuter stations, then help us Fetch the Keg for Friday’s party from Paoli.
Friday, June 5: Don’t miss the Madison Bikes Party at Brittingham Park, featuring food, music, and community vibes.
Saturday, June 6: Learn about current and future projects on the East Side Madison Bike Infrastructure Tour.
Sunday, June 7: Wrap up the week with the Pride Ride Madison, an Open Shop @ Freewheel Bikes, and the Brews Cruise.
Other Things to Know
On Tuesday, June 2nd at 6:30pm, there will be a public information meeting about the John Nolen Drive construction project.
Broom Street is set to reopen this week, while North Shore Dr will close. Note that the North Shore Dr path will close at South Bedford Street, and path users will be detoured to the new path on the other side of the street through Brittingham Park. The new path connects to South Bassett Street and South Broom Street where users can rejoin the Capital City Path or head north to the Wilson Street Cycletrack. Later in July, the Cap City Path on the causeway is expected to close as well.
Correction: A previous version of this article stated that the North Shore path will remain open, however new information was released stating it will be closed starting June 3rd.
Broom Street Reopening & North Shore Drive Closure diagram | City of Madison, Wisconsin Government on Facebook
If you are curious about how the route along John Nolen will be affected in the upcoming closure, the City is hosting two Detour Rides today (that’s Monday, June 1st) starting at the Brittingham Park Tennis Courts by Broom St. The rides start at 4:30 and 5:30pm.
Join staff from the City of Madison and the Greater Madison MPO to explore the low-stress bicycle detour around Monona Bay. The five mile out-and-back ride will use paths and bicycle boulevards to show how bicycling to and from downtown will still be doable during the path closure.
Seeking Volunteers for Party
We’re still seeking volunteers to help us with the end of week party on Friday, June 5th at Brittingham Park. Shifts are in 1-hour increments from 3-9pm, so any time you can help would be appreciated! If you are interested, please let us know on the Google form.
That’s all for this update. See you out there for Bike Week!
I hope you are enjoying the roller coaster of weather that is Spring in Wisconsin, where we ride in a T-shirt one day, and need ski mittens the next. There are quite a few things going on this week, so we’ll dive right into it.
Botanizing by Bicycle
On Tuesday, March 31st at 6pm, Join Wild Ones-Madison at Harmony Bar & Grill as Jeff Steele shares his experiences botanizing on two wheels along southern Wisconsin’s incredible trail network. Jeff will discuss his favorite natural areas, how to get there via bicycle, what plants and animals one may expect to find, and bicycle camping options along the way.
Those that attend this presentation will learn how to utilize available online resources to develop their own unique route. Jeff will also share sample itineraries for those that would like ideas for their next botany bicycle adventure.
Active Transportation Plan Feedback
If you have not already reviewed Greater Madison MPO’s draft for the Active Transportation Plan, there’s still time. The public comment period has been extended through April 13th, 2026. The plan contains tons of transportation-related data and is intended to inform decision-makers about what those of us who walk, bike, or roll need to travel safely. The draft plan aims to answer how we can better design streets, sidewalks, paths, and intersections. Feedback on the draft plan can be provided to mpo@cityofmadison.com through the April 13 deadline.
The Active Transportation Plan also features an interactive map where users have added points of interest highlighting problem areas or areas with good design that they’d like to see elsewhere. It’s worth a look if you have not seen it.
Open Shop @ Freewheel
If you are interested in learning more about bike repair: Sunday, April 5th from 12-4pm, Freewheel bike shop is hosting an Open Shop. Happening every 1st and 3rd Sunday of the month, this is your opportunity to learn more about caring for your bike, replacing parts, and fixing common issues.
Participants are welcome to bring their own bike or work on repairing donated bikes. Experienced instructors will be to guide you through the process of all levels of fixes and maintenance. All skill levels are welcome. No mechanic experience needed. Everyone’s a learner, everyone’s a teacher.
Cool Bikes North Community Event
If you’re a Northsider who bikes, you know our bicycle infrastructure lags behind other parts of Madison. What changes do we want to see, and how do we make them happen?
The North side is dear to my heart as the first neighborhood I lived in when I moved to Madison. Sadly, for North side residents, it can be downright uncomfortable to make trips via bike that should be simple and easy. The North side has a bunch of restaurants, shopping, parks, and other great destinations that its residents and other Madisonians would love to ride to, but the lack of safe bike routes can be prohibitive for some.
The goal of this event is to have an open discussion on how biking could be improved. The public is invited to a free panel discussion and Q&A forum on Tuesday, April 21, from 6–8 pm, at Cool Bikes North. For those who cannot attend in person, the event will be live streamed and you can write to info@coolbikesnorth.com to request a link.
Bike Week Event Signup is Live!
We’re already looking ahead to the first week of June (May 30 – June 7) because it’s Madison Bike Week! Tons of events, group rides, free snacks, classes, parties, and more await you during a whole week of bike-related celebration. Awesome events like these exist because businesses, groups, and community members like you volunteer their time and efforts to putting on wonderful events that celebrate our unique biking culture. Anyone can register and put on an event!
If you have an idea for a Bike Week event, please fill out our event registration form! It only takes a few minutes and we have a great list of potential locations that are pre-approved for Bike Week events. Madison Bike Week is only possible because of our amazing community members who are willing to make it happen, so if you are hosting an event this year: THANK YOU!
Did you know we also award small grants? If you want to host an event but lack the funds to do so, this may be a perfect option for you. Almost anything bike related could qualify, so get brainstorming and we’ll see you during Bike Week!
A vigil was held Thursday evening to remember Sasha
Last Thursday, 17-year old Alexander (Sasha) Rosen was hit and killed by a driver while crossing S. Park Street. While police officials are pleading for drivers to slow down and pay attention, it’s clear that more work is needed to make this area safer for pedestrians.
Former Madison Bikes board president and S. Park St neighborhood resident Eleanor Conrad spoke out in this article about safety and the need for more traffic calming measures:
“I know that there are those who will be really frightened by that term, but it’s really frightening crossing the street.”
Eleanor is exactly right. Paint is not infrastructure. S. Park is built like a highway, and the 25mph speed limit signs are most often ignored. We urge the City and WisDOT to consider adding physical traffic calming measures like curb extensions (AKA bump-outs), raised crossings, or traffic circles. Elements like these can save lives by slowing drivers down to an appropriate speed, and make crossing the road safer and easier for pedestrians. Traffic throughput should never take priority over lives. To learn more about what you can do to take action, visit safestreetsforsasha.org.
It’s worth noting that this section of Park Street may be due for reconstruction soon. The surface is in poor condition and it is on the route of the proposed North-South BRT. Either way, we’ll need support from the community in speaking up about prioritizing safety.
Public Meeting: E. Rusk Shared Use Path
On Monday at 6pm, the City is hosting a public information meeting on the E. Rusk Ave Shared-Use Path project. The path would be on the NW side of E. Rusk Ave between N. Rusk Ave and Rimrock Rd., parallel to the Beltline. The project aims to address the current lack of bicycle infrastructure there and close a gap in the low-stress bike network. Eventually, this path would connect to a future planned path along Rimrock Rd. The public is encouraged to give feedback. If you would like to give feedback or learn more, you can register using the Zoom link in the project page.
Friday is Winter Bike Day
2024 Winter Bike Day | Beth Skogen Photography – www.bethskogen.com
We are excited to host another International Winter Bike (Anywhere) Day. Whether you are biking to work, school, or just going for a ride, we would love to have you stop by our commuter station on the Cap City Trail in Law Park near Machinery Row. We’ll be there on Friday from 7-9am handing out free donuts and coffee, joined by our friends at Machinery Row Bicycles and RoundTrip / Greater Madison MPO who also have goodies to give out. This will be our largest Winter Bike Day commuter station in several years, so you won’t want to miss it!
Later on Friday, we’ll be hosting a happy hour from 4-6pm at Working Draft. The beer won’t be free, but you can get 10% off your tab with your Bike Benefits sticker! Come hang out and chat with us about your favorite (and least favorite) things about Winter biking.
Regent Street Field Trip
As you may know, Regent Street is up for reconstruction in 2027. Although that’s a ways out, the planning phase is already in progress, and we want to get ahead of things by seeing the problems first-hand.
Sunday from 2-4pm, Join Machinery Row and Madison Bikes for a casual group ride and exploration of Regent Street. We’ll meet at Machinery Row, ride over via the Southwest Path, and visit local businesses between Park St and Monroe St to talk about the need for better bike access and facilities on Regent Street. Along the way, we’ll document the challenges of accessing shops by bike, and support local businesses while we’re at it. We plan to wrap up with a social stop at a restaurant in the area. Keep an eye on the calendar, linked below, for any updates.
Welcome to the Madison Bikes Newsletter. As we wrap up the year, we want to take some time to reflect, be thankful, and look ahead to what’s coming in the new year. We hope you’re still finding time to ride your bike, whether it be your daily commute, running errands, or even getting some indoor trainer miles in. Winter biking itself is a form of quiet advocacy– it shows that bike infrastructure isn’t seasonal. Bike routes that are clear of snow show respect for people who ride year-round. On the other hand, Winter biking sheds light on areas that could still be improved. Slow residential streets are essential to a well-connected bike network, however they can be some of the most difficult to navigate after it snows.
Some “Thank-You”s
I wanted to kick off this newsletter with some gratitude. We are very thankful for city staff who clear the snow off our bike paths, often times even before the streets are plowed. Madison bike commuters rely on safe and clear paths to connect us from home to work, school, shopping, and more, and we couldn’t have that without them!
We are also grateful for volunteers and bike advocates for letting those in charge know we want to improve bicycling access in Madison. If you showed up to a public meeting, volunteered with us, or wrote to your representative this year, thank you!
Another shout out goes to careful drivers. Those who give plenty of space, slow down for cyclists especially in tough conditions, and check your mirrors before opening doors, we thank you for your consideration and responsibility.
Finally, we want to thank all winter riders for proving that bike transportation isn’t limited to warmer months, and showing that we deserve clear and safe bike infrastructure all year long.
Winter Riding Tips
Last month we hosted the Winter Bike Fashion Show and we asked attendees to share their favorite piece of winter biking gear. Check out the YouTube short to see what people said:
Winter biking doesn’t have to be extreme to be enjoyable. A few small adjustments can make a big difference:
Take it slow. Slower speeds are just part of winter biking. Snow, ice, and slush mean giving yourself extra time and riding at a pace that gets you where you need to go safely.
Lights matter more than ever. Winter days are short, meaning lights are essential for anyone commuting by bike. Keep your lights steady at night and point them downward out of the eyes of other bikers.
The right clothes make all the difference. Layers are key. A merino wool base layer under your jacket or jersey will keep you warm and it won’t absorb odors as much as synthetic materials do. Prioritize keeping your hands and feet warm! Mittens are great on very cold days because they allow your fingers to share warmth.
Winter riders show that biking is transportation, not just a fair-weather activity. Every winter ride counts, so bundle up and get out there.
Looking Ahead
We’re using the winter months to plan, listen, and prepare for another year of pushing for safer, more accessible streets for everyone. While we do that, we wanted to give you a preview of what’s to come in 2026.
In January, we’re hosting a meet-and-greet with the city’s new Transportation Director, Christof Spieler. February brings Winter Bike Day, where we’ll be hosting a morning commuter station and an afternoon happy hour. We’ll also be hosting our annual bike wash event later in the Spring. Looking further ahead to the best week of the year: Madison Bike Week is planned for May 31st to June 7th! In the Fall, we’ll have the 3rd annual Bicycle Film Festival, followed by the Winter Bike Fashion Show towards the end of the year.
You’ll find the dates and details for these events on our calendar, and the later ones will be added as we get closer to them. The list above is not exhaustive, of course, and we encourage you to check back often and keep an eye on our Newsletter to get the latest information as events, meetings, rides, and more are added.
That’s all for this newsletter. Happy Holidays from Madison Bikes! We hope you have a joyful and peaceful week with family and friends.
Cyclists roll through the Holiday Fantasy in Lights
Welcome to the Madison Bikes Newsletter. It’s getting dark earlier, meaning it’s extra-important to bring lights on your commute so you can see, and more importantly be seen. Wisconsin state law requires nighttime bicycle riders to have a front light and a rear reflector at a minimum, though adding rear light (solid or flashing) is even better.
Did you know that flashing bike lights are not allowed in some European countries– France, Germany, and the Netherlands included? The argument against them is that they might distract other road users, but in the case of the daytime running lights we use in the US, that’s kind of the point. Personally, I feel safer with a bright, intermittently flashing front and rear light during the day, though I generally don’t have them on when riding on a bike path and I always change them to steady when it gets dark. There’s nothing worse than riding on the path at night with an oncoming cyclist with a bright flashing front light pointed right at you. OK, maybe lifted pickup trucks with aftermarket LED bulbs are actually the worst, but you get the point.
This week we have some event, advocacy, and cycling news to share.
Winder Bike Fashion Show
After a several-year hiatus, Madison Bikes’ Winter Bike Fashion Show is back on November 16th from 1:30 – 4:30pm at the Goodman Center, Ironworks building.
Join us for an afternoon of cold-weather fashion as 12 models strut their winter stuff down the runway. Models will participate in a Q&A about how they continue biking through the coldest months, so come ready with any questions you might have! The event will also feature:
A humorous reverse strip demonstrating how to gear up for rides from 60˚ F down to -10˚ F.
An opportunity to practice putting your bike on a Madison Bus bike rack.
Help kids enjoy safe winter biking or walks to school by bringing winter clothing donations.
Get your picture taken in your winter biking gear or tell us your best winter biking tips for a short video.
Mark your commute route on a large map to share with others.
We still have room for more volunteers, so if you’re interested in helping out with setup/teardown or managing one of our event tables, please fill out the form to let us know!
Join the discussion and let us know if you can make it on the FB event here.
A Successful Week Without Driving
Thanks again for joining the Greater Madison Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) and Capital Area Regional Planning Commission (CARPC) for the Week Without Driving Community Discussion in Madison last month! It was such a meaningful conversation — we really appreciated you joining us and being so engaged in the discussion. The event recording is now available on YouTube and posted on the 2025 Week Without Driving webpage if you’d like to revisit or share it.
Feel free to reach out if you have any ideas or feedback. Thanks again for being part of the conversation!
Madison Cyclist Recovering after Hit-and-Run
On Oct. 1, a driver made an illegal turn near Camp Randall, hit longtime rider Allen Clauss, and fled. Allen spent weeks in the hospital recovering from multiple broken bones — and still says he can’t wait to ride again. His resilience is inspiring, but no one should have to endure this. We need stronger enforcement, safer street design, and a culture that holds drivers accountable for endangering lives.
Welcome to the Madison Bikes Newsletter. This week we have an exciting transportation challenge, a group ride spotlight, and a Bicycle Film Festival reminder.
Before we dive into bike news, September is coming up, meaning there will be an influx of new street users in Madison. Whether you’re a long-time Madison resident or new to the area, everyone should take extra care when moving around the city over the next month. Drivers should expect to see lots of pedestrians and bikes, especially new students (who may make mistakes– everyone does). Seasoned bicyclists should also take care and be patient with those who are less experienced. Historically, September is the month with the most motor vehicle on bike crashes, and the only ways to reduce that are to design streets with vulnerable users in mind (we’re working on that part) and to be extra careful, especially when driving.
Remembering Sarah Debbink Langenkamp through action
Today marks three years since the tragic crash that took the life of Sarah Debbink Langenkamp, a devoted mother, diplomat, cyclist, and sister of board member Alicia Bosscher. Sarah’s family has turned their grief into action by championing the Sarah Debbink Langenkamp Active Transportation Safety Act, a bill that would make biking safer nationwide. Read their story and learn how we can all support safer streets by reaching out to our elected leaders. Read more
RoundTrip’s September Smart Trips Challenge
Did you know you could win awesome prizes just by logging car-replacement trips with biking, walking/rolling, or taking the bus? This September, RoundTrip is putting on the Smart Trips Challenge! Every trip you take that replaces driving alone counts towards the challenge. Weekly and grand prize drawings will be done with prizes ranging from bike-related swag to $150 gift cards. For a chance to win even more prizes, you can also participate in the Bike Bingo challenge, supported by Machinery Row and Madison bikes!
The Smart Trips Challenge seeks to inspire more Dane County residents to swap solo drives for greener options, and to reward those who drive less year-round, whether for work, school, errands, or entertainment. The challenge is free and open to everyone 18+ in Dane County. To participate, simply register with RoundTrip and log your eligible trips all month for chances to win. The first 50 people to log a trip will receive a $10 Ian’s Pizza gift card!
Group Ride Spotlight: Blonde Duck Bike Club
Looking for a fun, welcoming ride? The Blonde Duck Bike Club hosts beginner-friendly, social group rides every Thursday night from early spring through fall. The group was recently featured in an article in Madison Magazine. Focused on creating an inclusive space for women and queer riders, the club keeps things approachable with a “no drop” promise—no one gets left behind. Expect laughter, conversation, and maybe even a treat along the way. Once a month, they also host an open ride welcoming everyone. Updates and ride information can be found on their Instagram!
Bicycle Film Festival
In case you missed our last post, Bicycle Film Festival is coming back to Madison on October 2nd, 2025! BFF is a curated selection of short bicycle-related films to inspire, move, and excite you about human-powered travel. Last year was a blast, and you won’t want to miss out on the fresh set of short films we have lined up for this year. Get your tickets here https://barrymorelive.com/event/25th-annual-bicycle-film-festival-madison and check out the post linked above for all the details!
That’s all for this newsletter. Thanks for reading, have a great week, and be safe!
