May and June are prime time for bike lovers everywhere, thanks to a cluster of cycling celebrations that highlight the health, environmental, and community benefits of life on two wheels. It all starts with National Bike Month, launched in 1956 by the League of American Bicyclists. This month-long campaign encourages everyone—from casual riders to die-hard cyclists—to get out and ride. It also includes National Ride a Bike Day on the first Sunday of May and Bike to Work Day on the third Friday, both offering perfect tie-ins for themed rides or studio challenges.
Tucked into this month is National Bike & Roll to School Day, held on the second Wednesday in May. Started in 2012 by the National Center for Safe Routes to School, this day focuses on encouraging students to safely bike or walk to school—and gives communities a chance to spotlight the importance of safe streets and active transportation. While it may not be an official holiday, it’s gaining traction in schools and neighborhoods across the country.
Globally, World Bicycle Day lands on June 3, thanks to a United Nations resolution passed in 2018. Recognized by all 193 member states, this day celebrates the bicycle as a simple, sustainable, and powerful tool for change. From health and wellness to equity and the environment, World Bicycle Day offers a meaningful way for studios to connect their indoor cycling programs to the bigger global picture. It’s also the perfect opportunity to extend your May celebrations into early June—whether with a themed ride, a community event, or a social media campaign that highlights the positive impact of cycling around the world.
National Bike Month is the perfect opportunity to celebrate fitness, community, and the joy of indoor cycling. Whether you’re a small boutique studio or part of a larger fitness center, there are creative ways to engage current riders, attract new ones, and create a buzz—without overwhelming your team. Here’s a mix of ideas, including those that demand little time and money, and more elaborate events that will require some effort and planning. (For the more involved ideas, start small now and think ahead to 2026.)
Low-Effort Ideas with High Impact
Create a Catchy Hashtag or Slogan
Try something like #CycleStrongWeek or #PedalWithPride. Ask riders to submit a creative suggestion to be adopted by the studio/gym. Display the hashtag around the studio and encourage riders to share photos and tag the studio on social media.
Social Media Countdown & Highlights
Start promoting on May 1 with a countdown to National Cycling Day to build the hype and generate interest and discussion. Instructors and riders alike love recognition. Consider sharing:
- Behind-the-scenes preparation of the cycling room decorations
- Themed playlists for the week or through the entire month
- Rider spotlights
- Instructor challenges for riders
Send an E-Blast
Use your email list to let riders know in advance what’s happening during the time you choose to celebrate cycling. Include information about upcoming class themes, planned special events, and any giveaways.
Take the Ride Outside
If weather and equipment permit, bring the bikes outside! A “Ride in the Sunshine” or sidewalk spin adds energy and visibility to your studio. Bonus: It draws in passersby who might not have considered indoor cycling before.
Hold an Ad Hoc Beginner’s Ride
Offer a low-pressure, 30-minute intro class for first-timers that raises awareness about the benefits of indoor cycling. My gym recognizes the importance of taking steps to grow the cycling program and keep it thriving by attracting new riders from within its membership as well as potential future members. Consider a “bring a friend” pass or promote a New Rider Starter Pack with a discounted class rate and a free water bottle or towel.
Special Event Ride: 90-Minute Endurance Challenge
Choose a day between May 6 and 10. Develop a profile for a Zone 2–3 steady-state ride with an endurance focus, which is great for building mental and physical stamina as it encourages riders to pace smart and finish strong. (This profile is better suited for experienced riders and those training for summer goals.)
Schedule an FTP Class
For studios equipped with bikes that have power monitors, offering an FTP (functional threshold power) class is a smart way to help riders better understand and personalize their workouts. An FTP test provides a benchmark for individual power zones, allowing riders to train more effectively and track their progress over time. It also adds a layer of motivation and measurable goals, perfect for riders who love data-driven fitness or are training for events. Hosting an FTP class during National Cycling Week can give participants a sense of accomplishment and a deeper connection to their performance.
ICA offers a multitude of valuable resources to make this a successful event:
- The Ultimate HIIT–Teaching with Power
- FTP Playlists
- You’ve Got Your FTP Number…Now What?
- Tour of the Training Zones
Moderate Effort, Big Engagement
Decorate the Studio or Bikes
Set the tone for the week with festive decorations. Since it occurs around Cinco de Mayo, you can continue the fiesta! Use streamers, banners, balloons, light strands, or themed signage. Invite instructors and members to decorate a bike and take a photo. Make a poster with the photos and have members vote for their favorite using slips of paper and a decorated box. If this is a contest, people can bring some of their own items to decorate or you can provide a variety of decorations they can use. Just be careful not to allow decorated bikes to be used for a class as the decorations may inhibit a safe ride. Consider offering a fun prize like a free guest pass, studio swag, or an extra recovery in their next cycling class!
Offer Special Theme Rides All Week or Month
Pick a theme for each day. ICA offers a huge list of profiles and playlists for recognized events in May (e.g., Blast Off!, Cinco de Mayo, World Laughter Day, It’s a Family Affair, Riding for Riches, A Tribute to Mom, International Pet Month, World Bicycle Day) as well as more general themes based on music, terrain, or topic (e.g., New Wave ’80s, Cadence Exploration, and Spring). Ask instructors to build themed playlists and dress accordingly. Encourage riders to match the vibe too!
Our A Tribute to Bikes profile is the best fit for National Cycling Day to celebrate the freedom, history, and joy of cycling. If you prefer to create your own playlist, choose songs about riding, travel, movement, and freedom. Some examples include: “Bicycle Race” (Queen), “Ride” (Twenty One Pilots), “Send Me On My Way” (Rusted Root), and “Life is a Highway” (Tom Cochrane). Another ICA theme/profile to use or borrow from is Hit the Road.
Flyer for Newcomers
Create a flyer for potential new riders considering indoor cycling that sets them straight on what they can expect. Here are some ideas you may choose to incorporate.
Title: Curious About Indoor Cycling? Let’s Bust the Myths and Get You in the Saddle!
Body Text: Thinking about trying a cycling class? You’re in the right place! Whether you’re brand new or haven’t ridden in a while, our classes are welcoming, supportive, and fun.
Truth vs. Myth:
Myth: “I need to be in shape first.”
Truth: Cycling helps get you in shape! Come as you are—we’ll guide you.
Myth: “It’ll be too intense for me.”
Truth: You control your resistance and pace. Go easy or go hard—it’s your ride.
Myth: “It’s only for young, athletic people.”
Truth: We ride with all ages and fitness levels. Everyone belongs here.
Myth: “Cycling will make my legs bulky.”
Truth: Indoor cycling tones and strengthens muscles, but it’s highly unlikely to cause bulky quads. Most riders develop lean, strong legs and improved endurance.
Myth: “It hurts!”
Truth: We help you set up your bike properly, and discomfort usually fades after a few classes. Ask your instructor for tips.
Ready to Ride?
✅ No experience needed
✅ Try the first-timer-friendly beginner class
✅ Energizing music and motivating instructors
✅ Supportive community
Launch a 30-Day Cycling Challenge
Offer an incentive for all riders—new and veteran—to come to cycling classes during the month of May. Riders can track progress via your app, a binder conveniently located in the fitness center, a whiteboard, or a digital leaderboard.
Riders fill out an entry ticket at the end of every class they attend and hand it to the instructor. If they come to the beginner class (see above), they earn two tickets! Instructors place the tickets in a drawing box to confirm attendance. The more classes riders attend, the more chances they have to win!
Hold the drawing on June 3, World Bicycle Day. You can choose multiple winners and offer prizes—such as a t-shirt, healthy snack basket, gift card, or studio credit—for:
- Most classes attended
- Most miles ridden
- Best costume on National Cycling Day
Encourage participants to share their progress on social media using your studio’s hashtag.
Email an “Indoor Rider’s Toolkit”
Send a digital PDF with cycling tips, hydration advice, proper bike set-up, post-ride stretches, and links to Spotify playlists. This is great for both new and returning riders!
“Pedal It Forward” Referral Challenge
Encourage members to refer friends during May. Every successful referral (new rider who attends at least one class) earns both the referrer and the friend an entry into a prize drawing.
High-Impact Events for Studios Ready to Go Big
Partner with Local Businesses
Collaborate with a nearby smoothie shop, café, or wellness provider. Offer discounts to riders who participate in National Cycling Month events, or host a pop-up after class with samples, giveaways, or chair massages.
Host a Charity Ride
Team up with a local cause and turn your National Cycling Day class into a fundraiser. Charge a special rate or accept donations, then celebrate the impact you’re making together.
Invite Local Media or Influencers
Reach out to local bloggers, reporters, or fitness influencers to attend your event. Offer them a comped ride in exchange for coverage and social media shoutouts.
With just a little planning, National Cycling Month can spark renewed excitement in your studio and strengthen your cycling community. Whether you go big or keep it simple, the ride is always worth it!
Ready to Ride? Let’s Make This May (and June) Unforgettable!
This is your opportunity to energize your classes, engage your riders, and celebrate the joy of cycling with your community. Start small or dream big—just don’t miss the chance to join this global movement. ICA has all the tools you need to make it happen, from themed profiles to playlists and promotional ideas. Let’s ride into summer strong—together!
References
League of American Bicyclists. (2025, April 11). National Bike Month
World Bicycle Day. National Today.
National Center for Safe Routes to School. (2016). Advancing Safe Walking and Bicycling for Youth: Approaches from the Federal Safe Routes to School Program that Support Broad Safety Benefits for Youth.