Originally Posted by
gerv
So after thinking about this a while... I'd like to pitch this:
Name of the program:
5 Days without a Car Challenge. I'm hoping this would particularly appeal to cyclists . We have so many who flock to do centuries, brag about their first overnight bike tour, first winter commute... our challenge could be along similar lines.
The challenge could evolve as a Facebook open group, where seasoned car-free cyclists could pitch ideas (ie, solve the casserole paradox mentioned above...). Cyclists who completed the challenge could post their experiences or show photos. Perhaps we could get an organization like
Undriving to help.
Perhaps someone who lurks here might be on a bicycle advocacy committee and include it in their Bike Month package.
On that note, anyone have any refinements? Better way to pitch the challenge? Web sites, organizations would could promote it??
For hardcore cyclists, a "Carfree Century" might be appealing. 100 miles in one day, but you must include transportation riding skills like going to stores and restaurants, hauling groceries, and staying clean enough to visit public establishments. Other skills might be included like taking a bus with your bike and night riding.
I have done many 60 or 70 mile days like this, but never a full century. It would be fun, and would also demonstrate that bikes are practical for covering long distances.
If you did the century as part of a 5 day carfree challenge, you might want to make the next day a rest day--no bike travel at all, just use walking and/or transit. This would demonstrate the other modes that are available as a Plan B.