Ride to Work Day

Ride to Work Day is observed on the second Tuesday in June. In 2027, this date falls on June 8. The day centers on using motorcycles and scooters for ordinary transportation, especially commuting. Riders mark it by taking a motorcycle, scooter, or moped to work, on errands, or through a regular weekday route. The observance also gives riders a public way to show that two-wheeled travel can be practical, efficient, and part of everyday life rather than only a weekend hobby. ^{1 2 3}

See also: National Bike to Work Day, International Winter Bike to Work Day

History of Ride to Work Day

Ride to Work Day grew from motorcycle commuting culture in the United States. Between 1989 and 1991, Aero Design and Manufacturing Company used the phrase “Work to Ride – Ride to Work” in marketing materials for motorcycle riding clothing. In 1992, motorcycle editor Fred Rau wrote an editorial calling for a national day when motorcycle owners would ride to work. The first Ride to Work Day was held on July 22, 1992, and the event was later supported by the nonprofit Ride to Work organization, formed in 2000.

The date has changed as the observance has developed. Early Ride to Work Day events were commonly promoted on the third Wednesday in July, then the event moved to the third Monday in June in 2008. Beginning in 2024, the annual date changed to the second Tuesday in June. Today, the day is mainly connected with motorcycle and scooter commuting, public awareness, rider visibility, and the practical use of smaller motorized vehicles in daily transportation.

Why is Ride to Work Day important?

Ride to Work Day matters because it makes an often-overlooked form of transportation visible during a normal workday. Motorcycles and scooters take up less space than cars on roads and in parking areas, and they can be useful for commuting, short errands, and urban travel. The day gives riders a shared moment to show that they come from many jobs, communities, and backgrounds. It also helps non-riders see motorcycling as transportation, not only recreation.

The observance also connects commuting with safety and responsibility. A motorcycle commute requires attention, protective gear, weather awareness, and respect from other road users. Drivers benefit from remembering that motorcycles are smaller, less visible, and more vulnerable in traffic. Riders benefit from using the day to check equipment, wear proper gear, ride sober, and treat visibility as part of the commute.

• It makes everyday motorcycle commuting easier to notice.
• Riders can show that two wheels are useful for more than recreation.
• The day supports conversations about parking and congestion.
• It gives new commuters a reason to plan a safe first ride.
• Drivers are reminded to look carefully for motorcyclists.

How to Celebrate Ride to Work Day

Ride a motorcycle, scooter, or moped on a regular weekday trip if it is safe and practical to do so. Plan the route in advance, check the weather, and leave enough time so the ride does not feel rushed. A commuter who normally drives can use the day to compare parking, travel time, fuel use, and the feel of the trip. Riders who work from home can still take a practical ride for an errand or appointment.

The day is also a good reason to talk about safe riding without turning the message into a lecture. Share a photo of a commuter ride, invite a coworker to ask questions about riding, or point a new rider toward local training resources. Employers can support riders with clear parking information, secure gear storage, and awareness that motorcycles may need different parking arrangements than cars. The strongest way to mark the day is to ride visibly, legally, and responsibly.

• Check tire pressure, lights, mirrors, and brakes before leaving.
• Wear a helmet and protective riding gear.
• Choose a familiar route for the commute.
• Park neatly and avoid blocking sidewalks or access points.
• Thank a workplace that provides motorcycle or scooter parking.

Ride to Work Day Dates

1. https://www.ridetowork.org/[↩]
2. https://www.ridetowork.org/about-ride-to-work/[↩]
3. https://ride-to-work-day.mag-uk.org/[↩]