How I’m Using My Work Commute to Train for a 4,000+ Mile Bike Ride

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Last week’s Bike to Work Day 2016 was quite a success! Across Silicon Valley over 35,000+ riders joined forces to enjoy a 2-wheeled commute–that’s a 18% increase over last year’s participation. A big thanks to the Silicon Valley Bike Coalition for spearheading this annual event. For more information on how you can get involved visit bikesiliconvalley.org. Microsoft’s own Jakob Rosenberg shares his #BTWD story, hopefully it provides you with the inspiration needed to try out your own bike commute!

Biking to work is an initiative I began last month in preparation for my upcoming summer adventure. Taking a sabbatical from my position at Microsoft where I work on grant making, supporting nonprofits, and engaging employees in volunteerism and philanthropy efforts, I’ll be trading in a desk for a two wheeled cross-country bike trip in support of affordable housing.  In preparation for my 4,000+ mile ride, I thought it wise to start putting some miles on my bike so I decided to use my daily work commute for training purposes. Not an avid cyclist, it took me a few days to get the hang of my new routine but now I’m a pro at navigating surface streets, checking for flats, and changing out tire tubes.

Last week I participated in Bike to Work Day. I joined a few colleagues and friends up in the city and we rode from San Francisco down the peninsula to our campus in Mountain View where we made use of the Stevens Creek trail.

For more information on my upcoming summer ride with Bike & Build and to support my trip, check out: http://classic.bikeandbuild.org/rider/8957

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Bike to Work Day 2016 – kicking off our ride from SF
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Taking a pit stop to learn more about affordable housing in Silicon Valley with Palo Alto Housing staff.
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Making use of the many bike lanes across Silicon Valley.
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One of the bike stations on campus with tools and air pumps.