Gearing up for some good cycling fun

Scott McBeath, owner of 3Forks Bike Shop, has spearheaded a statewide School-Based Bicycle Safety Education program for students in grades six to 12 across Washington. Participants can earn a bicycle and safety equipment upon completing a multi-week curriculum that includes bike safety and maintenance lessons. Currently, around a dozen students from Lincoln Middle School are participating, following earlier sessions in Pullman and Garfield/Palouse. The program, funded by Washington’s Climate Commitment Act, aims to instill confidence in young cyclists while emphasizing the importance of safety and community. McBeath anticipates launching the program again in spring 2025, with a goal to serve 10,000 youth over the next 14 years.

The curriculum consists of 10 two-hour sessions, where students learn essential skills like proper helmet use, trail etiquette, and bike maintenance. McBeath highlights that hands-on experiences help establish a connection with bikes, empowering kids to embrace cycling as a lifestyle. The initiative not only promotes cycling but also fosters friendships among participants, contributing to a stronger community.