Just ride: Ride to Work Day isn’t just for commuters

The modern workplace no longer adheres to a one-size-fits-all model. Evolving internet technologies set up the telecommuting pins through the 1990s, 2000s, and 2010s. The COVID-19 pandemic knocked them all down in 2020, making remote work all but ubiquitous. As more businesses return to the office, employers continue incorporating a variety of approaches to balancing work at home versus the traditional commute to the workplace. Worker mostly enjoy the newfound flexibility, but it does little to promote Ride to Work Day on June 19.

The inaugural RTW dates back to July 22, 1992. Throughout the ‘90s, the annual event remained a grassroots operation, until the Ride to Work non-profit organization was formed in 2000. Starting in 2008, organizers moved RTW from the third Wednesday in July to the third Monday in June. That summer solstice shift accommodated riders worldwide, but the times — and the work week — are a-changing.

In addition to work-from-home and hybrid schedules, a recently recognized federal holiday presents another Ride to Work Day hurdle. Observed for the first time in 2021, Juneteenth commemorates a landmark event in U.S. history, the emancipation of enslaved African Americans. Most people enjoy the extra day’s rest, but the holiday also keeps commuters off the road on (you guessed it) the third Monday in June. 

Whether it’s business as usual or a day at the beach, RTW still represents a worthy opportunity to ride. If you’re fortunate enough to have the day off, consider an afternoon joy ride or run some errands on two wheels. Better yet, take full advantage of the three-day break by embarking on a weekend-long road trip. 

Maybe you still have to clock in, but can do so from the comfort of your own home. Working from a local café is an excellent alternative, especially if a motorcycle gets you there. Of course, if your place of work treats Juneteenth like any other Monday, we trust you’ll celebrate Ride to Work Day in fitting fashion. Basically, if you own a motorbike and care about the safety of motorcyclists, there’s no better day to get rolling. After all, promoting rider safety is RTW’s ultimate goal. The organization hopes a significant 2023 turnout improves the general public’s overall awareness of motorcycle and scooter riders.

"Riding is a social good which benefits not only the rider but also everyone else," explained Ride to Work founder Andy Goldfine. "Participation numbers are important, so even if you are not commuting on this day, go for a ride somewhere."

More visibility leads to more safety, so seeking opportunities to ride supports the entire two-wheeled community. As such, the non-profit plans to change with the times in 2024, shifting Ride to Work Day to the second Tuesday in June. 

The new date not only avoids major holidays but also caters to those on hybrid schedules or enjoying an extended weekend. The modern workplace may no longer require commuting all the time, but that shouldn’t stop you from getting out on two wheels this Ride to Work Day.