Making headway on mental health can start by simply taking a seat for a ride. This May, join UCLA Transportation’s bike celebration as the department highlights how being on two wheels can support well-being.
Recognized as both National Bike Month and Mental Health Awareness Month, the crossover in May emphasizes the connection between physical activity and a healthy lifestyle. Whether for commuting, fitness or fun, riding a bike is good for Bruins’ brains.
Scientific studies have shown biking sparks joy and can be an effective, evidence-based tool for boosting mood and mental clarity, improving self-esteem, providing stress relief, reducing anxiety and depression, and offering valuable social interaction.
Students, faculty and staff are invited to festivities starting the week of May 11. Hosted in partnership with the UCLA Bike Shop and Velofix, join the department for pit stops, mobile repair station pop-ups and a special luncheon, with giveaways along the way.
Pit stops
Tuesday, May 12, 7:30 a.m.–9:30 a.m. at the Northwest corner of Westwood/Le Conte
Wednesday, May 13, 7:30 a.m.–9:30 a.m. at Dickson Court North
Mobile bike repair services
Monday, May 11, 11 a.m.–3:00 p.m. at the Court of Sciences
Tuesday, May 12, 11:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. at Bruin Plaza (stage side)
Wednesday, May 13, 11:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. at Lu Valle Commons
On Thursday, May 14, from 11:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. in the Court of Sciences, Bruins can enjoy complimentary refreshments and receive the custom Bike Month T-shirt at the annual Bike Luncheon. Advance registration for this event is required, as space and T-shirt quantity are limited.
Follow UCLA Transportation on Facebook, Twitter (X) and Instagram all month for riding resources and weekly contests with chances to win a $25 Amazon gift card. Earn extra prizes for extra bike mileage by joining the Love to Ride platform and logging your trips and distance each week in May.
The idiom “as easy as riding a bike” applies to the UCLA campus. There are bike programs and benefits, miles of bike lanes, Metro Bike Share, DIY repair stands, bike classes, secure bike parking, discounts through your UCLA affiliation at local bike shops and a campus bike advisory committee — all to actively support two-wheeled travel.