Friday, May 18, will see people across the country pedaling their way to work as part of the nationwide Bike to Work Day. Massachusetts, however, is already in the midst of Bay State Bike Week, the only statewide, week-long celebration of cycling, which runs May 12-20. Bike to Work Day and Bay State Bike Week aim to attract new riders by emphasizing the many benefits of commuting via bicycle, or just riding for fun. Events will be held across Massachusetts to encourage current cyclists and entice new riders, and to raise awareness about bike-related transportation issues and infrastructure across the Greater Boston area and the entire Commonwealth. A full schedule of Bay State Bike Week events can be found at their website.

Another component of Bike Week is the annual MassCommute Bicycle Challenge (MCBC), organized by a coalition of 12 Massachusetts Transportation Management Associations. MCBC is a friendly competition between local businesses, schools, and other organizations—as well as individuals—to see who can log the most miles ridden during Bike Week. You can view past years’ results at the MCBC website, including last year when MIT rolled to a convincing win over other area schools. If you’re interested in helping your classmates, coworkers, and friends lift MIT to another MCBC win, register at the MCBC website and start logging your rides today! MCBC will wrap up with its annual Bike Bash, held at Flat Top Johnny’s in Kendall Square, on Thursday, May 24, 5-7pm.