SpokeFest benefits bicycling

While many organized cycling events raise money for worthy causes such as medical research and ski patrols, Spokane’s SpokeFest bicycling event seeks only to promote bicycling and the health and fitness that go along with it.

The third annual SpokeFest is set for Sept. 12 based from Riverfront Park.

This year, the SpokeFest Association worked with Two Wheel Transit bicycle shop to donate 30 bicycles to the East Valley School District’s bicycle education program for fourth through sixth graders. The donation amounts to more than $4,500 for the bikes plus $1,000 for training instructors, SpokeFest officials said.

Two Wheel Transit negotiated a deal with Trek Bicycles and the Spokane shop’s mechanics assembled each of the bikes, said shop co-owner Geoff Forshag.

SpokeFest also donated 80 helmets to the Spokane County Library District bike helmet program in June.

“One of our main goals is to make bicycling a lifelong habit for our kids,” said Bill Bender, SpokeFest founder and association president.

New this year, SpokeFest will offer options for a 9-mile ride and a 47-miler along with the original 21-mile loop through Riverside State Park.

A 2.5-mile loop has been added for kids who don’t have to leave the safety of Riverfront Park and the Centennial Trail. The loop also can be shortened to 1 mile, with activities along the way to keep the kids’ interest.