Bel Air Gears Up for Bike to Work Day 2014

Wheels will be flying at Bike to Work Day in Bel Air on May 16.

The annual event promotes riding bicycles as low-cost, fun commuting options.

While owning a vehicle can cost more than $9,000 a year, owning and maintaining a bicycle can be about $120, according to the Maryland Department of Transportation.

Bel Air is one of several jurisdictions across the state participating in Bike to Work Day. Annapolis, Baltimore, Catonsville, Columbia, Towson, Westminster and White Marsh are also planning bike to work celebrations, according to the Baltimore Metropolitan Council, which sponsors the events.

The Bel Air affair, hosted by Harford County Government, includes a cyclist parade through town and a "Cycle Smackdown" in which teams from businesses and organizations compete to field the largest team of participants committing to bike to work that day. Trophies will be awarded.

There will be complimentary bicycle tune-ups, free "on the go" snacks, a Harford Transit Link bus showcasing the buses' bicycle racks, giveaways and music by WXCY 103.7 FM.

The Bike to Work Day Rally is slated for 7 to 9 a.m. on Friday, May 16, in the parking lot of the Harford County Government Building, 220 S. Main Street, in Bel Air. Register here.