Dave Schlabowske

Dave Schlabowske

Born and raised down on the south side where the streetcar used to turn the corner around, Dave is 365 day a year commuter and former racer and frame builder. He open the Wisconsin Bike Fed’s Milwaukee office 11 years ago. Dave worked for the Bike Fed for five years and moved to the City of Milwaukee DPW to become Milwaukee’s first first Bicycle and Pedestrian Coordinator. He was recently lured away from the excitement of bureaucracy by the high pay of the non-profit sector. A former professional photographer, Dave lives with his wife, daughter and two dogs in the Washington Heights neighborhood on Milwaukee’s fashionable west side.

Contact Dave

Recent Articles

Op Ed: Reconstruction of Humboldt Blvd. is a Generational Opportunity
Op Ed

Reconstruction of Humboldt Blvd. is a Generational Opportunity

Latest plans from the city look good, but protections for bicyclists could make them great.

Bike Czar: Join a Bike Ride Under the Polish Moon
Bike Czar

Join a Bike Ride Under the Polish Moon

Sign up for slow-moving, family-friendly, 8-mile, summer night ride through the South Side.

Bike Czar: 9 Reasons to Join National Bike Challenge
Bike Czar

9 Reasons to Join National Bike Challenge

The challenge has Wisconsin roots. And you could win a trip to New Zealand.

Bike Czar: Biking Through the Mindoro Cut
Bike Czar

Biking Through the Mindoro Cut

55-mile Spring Classic ride to La Crosse goes through deepest hand-hewn cut in America.

Bike Czar: The LAX Spring Classic Is On!
Bike Czar

The LAX Spring Classic Is On!

No snow and 60 degrees forecast for Sunday biking through Driftless region.

Bike Czar: Biking Summit A Chance to Regain Momentum
Bike Czar

Biking Summit A Chance to Regain Momentum

Wisconsin has fallen from 2nd to 28th most bike-friendly state.

Bike Czar: Santa Cycle Rampage Gives Back
Bike Czar

Santa Cycle Rampage Gives Back

Santas donate to Fresh Start Learning.

Bike Czar: 17 Solid Blocks of Santas
Bike Czar

17 Solid Blocks of Santas

Santa Cycle Rampage and 10th Annual Bike Bazaar coming. Be of good cheer and join.

Bike Czar: Return of the Santa Rampage
Bike Czar

Return of the Santa Rampage

It’s Santa Dave’s last rampage, on December 2nd.

Bike Czar: One More Chequamegon Bike Trip
Bike Czar

One More Chequamegon Bike Trip

Dave Schlabowske leads his last trip before retiring from Bike Federation.

Bike Czar: Gravel Roads Make Great Bike Trails
Bike Czar

Gravel Roads Make Great Bike Trails

As we proved in our weekend trip from Butternut WI to Ironwood and the Upper Peninsula.

Bike Czar: Accordions at the Crossroads
Bike Czar

Accordions at the Crossroads

Why we’ll have a great Mexican polka band at the Polish Moon Ride, July 21.

Bike Czar: State Bike Summit Held May 4
Bike Czar

State Bike Summit Held May 4

Annual summit in Milwaukee a must for bike lovers and advocates.

Bike Czar: On the Road to Wales
Bike Czar

On the Road to Wales

Second Spring Classic proves all roads don’t lead to Rome.

Bike Czar: We’ll Always Have Paris
Bike Czar

We’ll Always Have Paris

Spring Classic ride to Paris, Wisconsin was fun but ch-ch-chilly.

Bike Czar: How We Lobbied Congress
Bike Czar

How We Lobbied Congress

Asking officials not to bar states from using transportation funds for bicycling.

Bike Czar: Wisconsin Goes to Washington
Bike Czar

Wisconsin Goes to Washington

Bike Fed lobbies federal officials with data on biking projects' big impact on jobs.

Bike Czar: Brr, First Spring Classic Was Chilly
Bike Czar

Brr, First Spring Classic Was Chilly

But 30 cyclists joined first group ride of the season.

Bike Czar: Remembering Chris Kegel
Bike Czar

Remembering Chris Kegel

The Wheel & Sprocket owner loved biking, loved people and helped so many.

Bike Czar: Say Goodbye To Frozen Toes
Bike Czar

Say Goodbye To Frozen Toes

Finally, winter cycling footwear to keep toes toasty: Bonrager’s new winter boots.

Bike Czar: Santa Rampage A Huge Success
Bike Czar

Santa Rampage A Huge Success

Sea of red 17 blocks long as thousands bicycle North Ave. from Tosa to the Beerline.

Bike Czar: City Streets Makeover Adds Bike Lanes
Bike Czar

City Streets Makeover Adds Bike Lanes

60 miles of streets resurfaced, many with new bike lanes.

Bike Czar: Sign Up for Santa Rampage
Bike Czar

Sign Up for Santa Rampage

It’s become a huge hit and the 16th annual ride is on December 3rd.

Bike Czar: New Tour de Chequamegon Rocked!
Bike Czar

New Tour de Chequamegon Rocked!

First annual tour included three great days, 110 miles of virtually car-free forest roads.

Bike Czar: Tosa Full Moon Ride a Glowing Success
Bike Czar

Tosa Full Moon Ride a Glowing Success

Bike lanes, other citified changes making East Tosa an urban destination.

Bike Czar: Ride Durango the Wisconsin Way
Bike Czar

Ride Durango the Wisconsin Way

Four days of biking in Durango, CO, were filled with Wisconsin connections.

Bike Czar: Riding a Bicycle IS Safe
Bike Czar

Riding a Bicycle IS Safe

Why the call for bicyclists to avoid highway is completely misguided.

Bike Czar: Viva la Ciclovía!
Bike Czar

Viva la Ciclovía!

Sunday's annual event was a huge success, but darkened by mass shooting in Orlando.

Bike Czar: Train, Train, Train, Train
Bike Czar

Train, Train, Train, Train

Photos, story of fourth annual ride to St. Paul by train and three-day bike ride back.

Bike Czar: The Ride to Door County
Bike Czar

The Ride to Door County

Riders from across the state cycled 70 miles (or less) in final Spring Classic.

Bike Czar: Amtrak Now Allows Bikes For $5
Bike Czar

Amtrak Now Allows Bikes For $5

No more boxing and folding bikes. Hiawatha line to Chicago now has 15 bike racks.

Bike Czar: A Rough Ride to Denmark
Bike Czar

A Rough Ride to Denmark

The wind was blowing half a pelican for our ride from Green Bay to Denmark, WI.

Bike Czar: Ride to Belgium Was a Challenge
Bike Czar

Ride to Belgium Was a Challenge

The 75-mile round trip to Belgium, WI hit one hell of a headwind coming back.

Bike Czar: Rome Was Reached in a Day
Bike Czar

Rome Was Reached in a Day

Spring Classic 2 riders peddle to Rome, WI and back, 85 miles in chilly weather.

Bike Czar: How We Bicycled to Paris
Bike Czar

How We Bicycled to Paris

That would be the Town of Paris, then on to Kenosha, on our Spring Classic 2016 ride.

Bike Czar: Testing the Bosch Edgerunner
Bike Czar

Testing the Bosch Edgerunner

This long-tail cargo bike is really smooth with many advantages and few drawbacks.

Bike Czar: Polish Moon Ride Registration Open
Bike Czar

Polish Moon Ride Registration Open

Sign up for slow-moving, family-friendly, 8-mile, summer night ride through the South Side.

Bike Czar: The Legacy of Otto Wenz, Jr.
Bike Czar

The Legacy of Otto Wenz, Jr.

Bicycling champion who started Super Week and the Downer Classic died Wednesday.

Bike Czar: Joys of the Yuba Spicy Curry
Bike Czar

Joys of the Yuba Spicy Curry

Not food, but a cool, long-tail cargo bike that's great for hauling stuff.

Bike Czar: We Need Equity in High School Cycling
Bike Czar

We Need Equity in High School Cycling

Some schools lack access to designated mountain bike trails. But there is a solution.

Bike Czar: 2,000 Biking Santas Hit the Streets!
Bike Czar

2,000 Biking Santas Hit the Streets!

Riders came from Boston, Iowa, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, Iowa to join the rampage.

Bike Czar: Santa Cycle Rampage is Dead. Not.
Bike Czar

Santa Cycle Rampage is Dead. Not.

The old one is dead, new one organized for December 5. Long live the new Santa Cycle Rampage!

Bike Czar: New Milwaukee Area Trails Completed
Bike Czar

New Milwaukee Area Trails Completed

Most notable: lakefront trail now extends past Hampton, connects to Ozaukee Interurban Trail.

Bike Czar: Teen Bike Racer Inspires
Bike Czar

Teen Bike Racer Inspires

A Milwaukee High School Mountain Bike Team member personifies the spirit of biking.

Bike Czar: Wisconsin’s Far North By Bike and Camera
Bike Czar

Wisconsin’s Far North By Bike and Camera

Testing a new Sony camera on the CAMBA and COGGS Mountain Bike Trails.

Bike Czar: “Ride Across Wisconsin” Will Expand Next Year
Bike Czar

“Ride Across Wisconsin” Will Expand Next Year

Dubuque-to-Kenosha ride will add two-day option, with those riders staying overnight in Beloit.

Bike Czar: Ride Across Wisconsin Was Huge Success
Bike Czar

Ride Across Wisconsin Was Huge Success

Inaugural event took riders from many states across southern Wisconsin via scenic roads -- in 1 day.

Bike Czar: Open Streets Event Finally Comes to Milwaukee
Bike Czar

Open Streets Event Finally Comes to Milwaukee

Hundreds of cities have sponsored Ciclovia events. Milwaukee's first one is on August 29.

Bike Czar: In Memory of Rob Hofmann
Bike Czar

In Memory of Rob Hofmann

The longtime biking enthusiast died in a freak accident that does raise some questions.

Bike Czar: Eighth Bicyclist of Year Killed by Motorists
Bike Czar

Eighth Bicyclist of Year Killed by Motorists

It doesn't help that Wisconsin became the first state to repeal a Complete Streets law.

Bike Czar: Bike Beats Auto in Race Again!
Bike Czar

Bike Beats Auto in Race Again!

Bike vs car in 4.6-mile race from Shorewood Colectivo to O'Donnell Park and the the biker wins by 30 seconds.

Bike Czar: Train Trip Reminds Us Why We Ride
Bike Czar

Train Trip Reminds Us Why We Ride

This trip is a perfect example of why cycling is important to us.

Bike Czar: New Bike Trails Coming
Bike Czar

New Bike Trails Coming

Beerline Trail from Keefe to Capitol Dr. will be completed in July and Phase 4 of Oak Leaf Trail north from Estabrook Park in November.

Bike Czar: New County Policy Discourages Biking Events
Bike Czar

New County Policy Discourages Biking Events

Use of parks and Oak Leaf Trail requires two-week notice and $250 non-refundable fee, even for free events. Bike Federation protests policy.

Bike Czar: How to Transport Dogs By Bike
Bike Czar

How to Transport Dogs By Bike

Right now I'm leaning toward the Xtracycle Edgerunner to carry my two dogs, but the bike industry is coming up with other intriguing options.

Bike Czar: Polish Moon Ride Returns!
Bike Czar

Polish Moon Ride Returns!

A big success in its inaugural ride last year, the night-time event returns this summer, and could sell out soon.

Bike Czar: Spring Is Finally Here!
Bike Czar

Spring Is Finally Here!

I do like winter biking but what a thrill to take my first ride of the season in shorts and a jersey.

Bike Czar: Not Riding a Bicycle is Hazardous to Your Health
Bike Czar

Not Riding a Bicycle is Hazardous to Your Health

Even factoring in occasional traffic deaths for bicyclists, they live longer, healthier lives than automobile drivers.

Bike Czar: Second Fatal Crash On Sheboygan Highway
Bike Czar

Second Fatal Crash On Sheboygan Highway

Two people have now been killed at that location. Paving the road's shoulders could help make it much safer.

Bike Czar: Farewell to a Lovely Winter
Bike Czar

Farewell to a Lovely Winter

Spring is welcome, but I had so many wonderful experiences on fat bikes that I'll remember this winter fondly.

Bike Czar: Coalition Battles Bike Funding Cuts
Bike Czar

Coalition Battles Bike Funding Cuts

A coalition of environmental groups, business groups and others are lobbying legislators to change Walker's budget.

Bike Czar: Walker Ends State Funding for Biking Program
Bike Czar

Walker Ends State Funding for Biking Program

His proposed budget eliminates all state funding for Transportation Alternatives Program.

Bike Czar: The Thrill of Everyday Adventures
Bike Czar

The Thrill of Everyday Adventures

Life is short and bicycling provides adventures close to home. Are you missing out?

Bike Czar: Remember When Kids Didn’t Wear Helmets?
Bike Czar

Remember When Kids Didn’t Wear Helmets?

Four decades ago 50% of kids bicycled or walked to work. Today its 12%. Is our obsession with safety making kids fat?

Bike Czar: More Trails, More Plowing and Better Maps
Bike Czar

More Trails, More Plowing and Better Maps

An update on all the improvements for biking both locally and state-wide.

Bike Czar: More Protected Bike Lanes and Greenways Needed
Bike Czar

More Protected Bike Lanes and Greenways Needed

2015 agenda by Bike Federation will push city for these and other improvements.

Bike Czar: Commuting at -8 Degrees
Bike Czar

Commuting at -8 Degrees

Sounds tough, but it's really possible to travel quite comfortably. Here's a guide.

Bike Czar: Get Out of the Road!
Bike Czar

Get Out of the Road!

Why do automobile drivers yell at legal bikers and pedestrians? Probing this ugly form of road rage.

Bike Czar: Can Milwaukee Upgrade to Gold Ranking?
Bike Czar

Can Milwaukee Upgrade to Gold Ranking?

City officials pledge to work towards upgrading the city's national, bicycle-friendly ranking from bronze to gold.

Bike Czar: Santa Cycle Rampage Goes National
Bike Czar

Santa Cycle Rampage Goes National

Milwaukee had as many as 1,000 cycling Santas, and cities like Boston, Chicago, Kansas City and Minneapolis also had rampages.

Bike Czar: Fatal Crashes Down in 2014
Bike Czar

Fatal Crashes Down in 2014

The number of fatal bike crashes in Wisconsin continues to decline even as number of bicyclists increases.

Bike Czar: How a Trek Saved My Life
Bike Czar

How a Trek Saved My Life

I went from a heavy smoking, bar-hopping photographer who might have killed himself, to a physically-fit bicycle advocate, all because I bought a bike.

Bike Czar: Winter Too Cold? Ride Indoors!
Bike Czar

Winter Too Cold? Ride Indoors!

If you can't brave the cold, there are some fun indoor cycling programs at area bike shops.

Bike Czar: America’s Best Bike Shops
Bike Czar

America’s Best Bike Shops

Six Wisconsin shops made the NBDA's list of top bike stores in the nation.

Bike Czar: Fatal Crash in Minocqua Kills Bicyclist
Bike Czar

Fatal Crash in Minocqua Kills Bicyclist

Motorist initially charged with negligent homicide, but that has been dropped to inattentive driving, though investigation is not completed.

Bike Czar: Tosa Installs First Bike Box in Metro Area
Bike Czar

Tosa Installs First Bike Box in Metro Area

They make busy intersections safer for bikes and cars. Will Milwaukee install some?

Bike Czar: Will County Simplify Trail Permit Requirements?
Bike Czar

Will County Simplify Trail Permit Requirements?

The Bike Federation requests a simpler permit process for Oak Leaf and other trails, and county staff seem open to suggestions.

Bike Czar: Milwaukee Quietly Adds Buffered Bike Lanes
Bike Czar

Milwaukee Quietly Adds Buffered Bike Lanes

The changes on south 2nd are welcome, but when will the city start creating protected bike lanes?

Bike Czar: Wauwatosa Goes Green With Bike Lanes
Bike Czar

Wauwatosa Goes Green With Bike Lanes

Wauwatosa turns North Avenue into a bicycle paradise with green lanes and bike boxes.

Bike Czar: New Bike Trails and Ride Rules
Bike Czar

New Bike Trails and Ride Rules

A rundown of new bicycle amenities. And permits are now required for group rides on area trails.

Bike Czar: The Silver Bullet for Bicycle Safety
Bike Czar

The Silver Bullet for Bicycle Safety

What has the power to improve traffic flow, drive up property values, reduce the number of crashes, and increase the number of cyclists?

Bike Czar: Long Live the Polish Moon Ride!
Bike Czar

Long Live the Polish Moon Ride!

A great turnout, a beautiful foggy night, and fun polka and Mexican music -- the ride was a big success and will surely grow in coming years.

Bike Czar: Is Bicycling the New Golf?
Bike Czar

Is Bicycling the New Golf?

Business leaders are dropping the clubs and pedaling for charity.

Bike Czar: What Do Bicycles Do At Crosswalks?
Bike Czar

What Do Bicycles Do At Crosswalks?

The Bike Czar explains what cyclists, drivers and pedestrians should do when they encounter a crosswalk.

Bike Czar: $13 Million in TAP Grants Awarded
Bike Czar

$13 Million in TAP Grants Awarded

Funding for 27 bicycle and pedestrian projects will go to communities statewide, including Milwaukee.

Bike Czar: A Guide to Bike Sharrows
Bike Czar

A Guide to Bike Sharrows

West Allis just installed some. You find them all over. How do they differ from bike lanes and how should they be used?

Bike Czar: What to Say When People Complain About Bicyclists
Bike Czar

What to Say When People Complain About Bicyclists

Studies consistently show drivers are at least twice as likely to break the rules of the road as bicyclists.

Bike Czar: Expanded Bike Trails Coming
Bike Czar

Expanded Bike Trails Coming

Bay View will be connected to Downtown and Oak Leaf trail will extend from Estabrook Park all the way to Ozaukee Interurban Trail!

Bike Czar: 2014 One of Safest Years
Bike Czar

2014 One of Safest Years

Bicycle crashes are down 23% compared to the first six months of 2013. Why?

Bike Czar: Sticks And Stones May Break Your Bones
Bike Czar

Sticks And Stones May Break Your Bones

An odd run of bike accidents from sticks and stones. Meanwhile car crashes involving bikes are declining.

Bike Czar: The Legacy of Phil Van Valkenberg
Bike Czar

The Legacy of Phil Van Valkenberg

His creation of the Fat Tire Tour and the state's first bicycling guides led the way to our growing local bike culture.

Bike Czar: The Virtue Gondoliere Can Haul Lots of Cargo
Bike Czar

The Virtue Gondoliere Can Haul Lots of Cargo

Dogs, kids, groceries, they can all be transported in this handy cargo bike.

Bike Czar: The Massive Cost of Automobiles
Bike Czar

The Massive Cost of Automobiles

Counting the cost of car crashes, the total bill for auto transit is about $1 trillion a year.

Bike Czar: Why We Ride
Bike Czar

Why We Ride

And why Wisconsin is such a wonderful place to tour by bicycle.

Bike Czar: Big Growth in People Biking to Work
Bike Czar

Big Growth in People Biking to Work

The number increased 166% in four years in Milwaukee, while Madison ranked second among all mid-sized cities.

Bike Czar: Wauwatosa Embraces the Bicycle
Bike Czar

Wauwatosa Embraces the Bicycle

New bike lanes and bike boxes approved. Tosa is now so cool that Bay View folks are moving there.

Bike Czar: Wisconsin Now 3rd Most Bike-Friendly State
Bike Czar

Wisconsin Now 3rd Most Bike-Friendly State

It's great news, but is there a dark cloud enveloping this silver lining?

Bike Czar: The Importance of Earth Day
Bike Czar

The Importance of Earth Day

Take your cue from our former Senator Gaylord Nelson. Your actions can make a difference.

Bike Czar: The Heart of New Milwaukee
Bike Czar

The Heart of New Milwaukee

The Menomonee Valley's renaissance personifies how Milwaukee is becoming a new city -- without losing its roots.

Bike Czar: Governor Signs Vulnerable User Bill
Bike Czar

Governor Signs Vulnerable User Bill

Bill to protect bikers and pedestrians and a separate bill allowing biking on state trails after 11 p.m. were both passed by legislature.

Bike Czar: Watered-Down Bill Protecting Bicyclists Passes
Bike Czar

Watered-Down Bill Protecting Bicyclists Passes

Tougher bill to protect bicyclists and pedestrians had broad bipartisan support but a few Republicans prevented passage.

Bike Czar: Will New York’s Bike Share System Survive?
Bike Czar

Will New York’s Bike Share System Survive?

It's hugely popular and cheaper than other transit, but Mayor De Blasio opposes subsidy. Could that have ripple effect on other cities?

Bike Czar: What Kind of Weather Shuts You Down?
Bike Czar

What Kind of Weather Shuts You Down?

I ride no matter what, but even bike meccas like Copenhagen have fewer riders in winter. When and why do you stop riding?

Bike Czar: Will Supreme Court Ruling Close Bike Trails?
Bike Czar

Will Supreme Court Ruling Close Bike Trails?

Decision on ownership of railroad right of ways could affect bike trails in Wisconsin and nationally.

Bike Czar: The Growth in Air Travelers Arriving by Bike
Bike Czar

The Growth in Air Travelers Arriving by Bike

They laughed when a bike rack was installed at Mitchell Airport, but on some days it's nearly full.

Bike Czar: The Amazing Sea Caves of Apostle Islands
Bike Czar

The Amazing Sea Caves of Apostle Islands

You can bicycle nearly all the way to the caves and a spectacular natural show.

Bike Czar: City Agrees to Plow Hank Aaron Trail
Bike Czar

City Agrees to Plow Hank Aaron Trail

Finally some progress. How my advocacy with state and city officials paid off.

Bike Czar: Her Third Drunk Driving Kills Elderly Biker
Bike Czar

Her Third Drunk Driving Kills Elderly Biker

The plague of drunk driving threatens all of us, but legislators won't toughen the laws.

Bike Czar: The Ultimate Winter Commuter Bike
Bike Czar

The Ultimate Winter Commuter Bike

More progress -- and more tips for bikers -- in my eternal quest for the perfect winter bike.

Bike Czar: Arrest Those Who Bike in Winter, Mayor Says
Bike Czar

Arrest Those Who Bike in Winter, Mayor Says

Comments from Watertown, NY official raise serious issues about how bikers are treated, including in Wisconsin.

Bike Czar: Why I’m Boycotting the Farmers Market
Bike Czar

Why I’m Boycotting the Farmers Market

Though the state signed an MOU promising to snow plow the bike trail leading to the Winter Farmers Market, they aren't doing it.

Bike Czar: Winter Weather Warmers
Bike Czar

Winter Weather Warmers

My winter commute tricks will help you bicycle comfortably in the cold.

Bike Czar: 13-time Loser Kills 61-Year-Old Bicyclist
Bike Czar

13-time Loser Kills 61-Year-Old Bicyclist

James R. Erdmann Jr, who had 13 previous traffic violations, is arrested in hit-and-run of bicyclist.

Bike Czar: How To Avoid Getting Ticketed or Towed in Snowstorm
Bike Czar

How To Avoid Getting Ticketed or Towed in Snowstorm

All the cars making short trips in the city make snowplowing difficult. Try walking or biking.

Bike Czar: We’re Driving Less, Cycling More
Bike Czar

We’re Driving Less, Cycling More

Milwaukee ranked 2nd and Madison 3rd in national decline of driving, while biking rose 280%.

Bike Czar: The History and Future of Santa Rampage
Bike Czar

The History and Future of Santa Rampage

Could event become a victim of its own success? Organizers consider changes in format.

Bike Czar: Santa Cycle Rampage Rocks Out
Bike Czar

Santa Cycle Rampage Rocks Out

The English Beat flew in from Britain to play and the turnout was great.

Bike Czar: The Sheer Endurance of Steel
Bike Czar

The Sheer Endurance of Steel

For nearly a century most bikes were made of steel, which still has advantages over aluminum.

Bike Czar: New West Allis Trail Coming
Bike Czar

New West Allis Trail Coming

Saturday is the ribbon cutting for bike/pedestrian trail from 124th east into the heart of West Allis.

Bike Czar: The Sacrifice of Our Veterans
Bike Czar

The Sacrifice of Our Veterans

We can admire those bicyclists who do endurance races, but the bravery of our veterans puts all that into sober perspective.

Bike Czar: The Joys of BikeShare
Bike Czar

The Joys of BikeShare

As more cities add BikeShare, I no longer need pack a folding bike. Travel for bikers is so much easier now.

Bike Czar: The Sheer Beauty of Bicycling
Bike Czar

The Sheer Beauty of Bicycling

Yes, it's cheaper and healthier to ride a bike. But it also connects you to nature and a world of sensations.

Bike Czar: Ghost Bike with a Message
Bike Czar

Ghost Bike with a Message

Friends and family honor fallen cyclist Tom Van Hoof

Bike Czar: Why We Love the Door County Century Ride
Bike Czar

Why We Love the Door County Century Ride

It's a fall classic, four bike rides with great scenery, great food and beer. Lots of Milwaukeeans joined in the fun.

Bike Czar: Public Hearings Set for Vulnerable Users Bill
Bike Czar

Public Hearings Set for Vulnerable Users Bill

The bill provides protection for pedestrians, bikers, farmers and others who are more vulnerable in accidents with cars.

Bike Czar: Grand Opening of KK River Bike Trail!
Bike Czar

Grand Opening of KK River Bike Trail!

Celebration Saturday of newest part of trail whose origins go back more than a decade.

Bike Czar: Bicyclists Vs. Motorcycle Group
Bike Czar

Bicyclists Vs. Motorcycle Group

Law defining bicyclists and pedestrians as "vulnerable users" who need more protection from motorists is opposed by the motorcycle lobby.

Bike Czar: Is Safety on Rural Roads a Problem?
Bike Czar

Is Safety on Rural Roads a Problem?

Are rural roads less safe than urban streets for bicyclists? A fatal crash in Seymour raises questions.

Bike Czar: Bikers Banned From State Trails At Night
Bike Czar

Bikers Banned From State Trails At Night

From 11 p.m. to 6 a.m. bikers on any state trails can be fined $175. Why?

Bike Czar: One Year in Jail for Killing Bicyclist?
Bike Czar

One Year in Jail for Killing Bicyclist?

Young woman who was texting while driving and killed bicyclist must do 500 hours community service. Is that fair?

Bike Czar: Trail to Close During Zoo Interchange Reconstruction
Bike Czar

Trail to Close During Zoo Interchange Reconstruction

WisDOT will hold a public meeting on the multi-year closure of a portion of the Hank Aaron State Trail.

Bike Czar: Biking the Rail Trails
Bike Czar

Biking the Rail Trails

Our hardy team took the train to Twin Cities, than bicycled back to Milwaukee, for great adventure.

Bike Czar: The Decline of Bike Crashes
Bike Czar

The Decline of Bike Crashes

The ratio of bicyclists killed by motorists is actually declining. But more safety measures could still improve the numbers.

Bike Czar: The Tragic Death of Tom Van Hoof
Bike Czar

The Tragic Death of Tom Van Hoof

A well-known and much-loved member of the bicycling community was killed in a crash with a motorist on Mill Road.

Bike Czar: A Little Ride on the Beach
Bike Czar

A Little Ride on the Beach

Riding south from Port Washington along the Lake Michigan beach made for a great Sunday expedition.

Bike Czar: Bikes Can’t Lose in Cities
Bike Czar

Bikes Can’t Lose in Cities

They're cheaper, require less spending by cities than on cars, and are often faster. Expect ever-more bicyclists in Milwaukee.

Bike Czar: Texting 20-Year-Old Convicted of Homicide
Bike Czar

Texting 20-Year-Old Convicted of Homicide

The bicyclist was killed. The crash has lessons for both automobile drivers and bicyclists.

Bike Czar: The Joys of Jogging?
Bike Czar

The Joys of Jogging?

For the first time in 15 years, I jogged to work rather than biking. It made me see how tough on the muscles it must be for first-time bikers.

Bike Czar: See the World with a Folding Bike
Bike Czar

See the World with a Folding Bike

I packed my $65 folding bike on the Amtrak, got off in Chicago and cycled everywhere.

Bike Czar: No Charges in Fatal New Berlin Crash
Bike Czar

No Charges in Fatal New Berlin Crash

Waukesha DA says teen pedaled into road without stopping.

Bike Czar: Fourth Bicyclist This Year Killed
Bike Czar

Fourth Bicyclist This Year Killed

Meanwhile the law continues to offer little protection for bicyclists and pedestrians.

Bike Czar: Fatal Crashes Remind us to Drive and Bike Carefully
Bike Czar

Fatal Crashes Remind us to Drive and Bike Carefully

Crashes that took the lives of Stephen Rader and Brittany Barnstable remind Wisconsinites to be extra vigilant around vulnerable users of the road.

Bike Czar: Wisconsin Declines in National Bike Rankings
Bike Czar

Wisconsin Declines in National Bike Rankings

Since 2010, we've dropped from 2nd most bike-friendly state to 8th place. State funding cuts are main reason.

Bike Czar: New Bike Trails Coming to Milwaukee
Bike Czar

New Bike Trails Coming to Milwaukee

Three Bridges Park and the extension of the KK bike trail will bring excitement -- and great biking opportunities -- to the city.

Bike Czar: How Bike Messengers Break the Laws
Bike Czar

How Bike Messengers Break the Laws

Everyone, including police, tolerate it because law firms and other customers need their documents delivered as quickly as possible.

Bike Czar: Scofflaws Defend Themselves
Bike Czar

Scofflaws Defend Themselves

Bicyclists and motorists who break the laws defend themselves. Are they right?

Bike Czar: The Worst Law Breakers on the Road
Bike Czar

The Worst Law Breakers on the Road

Autos, pedestrians and bicyclists all break the laws, but studies show automobile drivers do it the most.

Bike Czar: Bicycle Lobbyists Hit the State Capitol
Bike Czar

Bicycle Lobbyists Hit the State Capitol

More than 100 advocates met with legislators and pushed for pro-bicycle policies. Will it have an impact?

Bike Czar: Year’s First Fatality, Bicyclist Hit by SUV
Bike Czar

Year’s First Fatality, Bicyclist Hit by SUV

Bicyclists continue to be killed by negligent drivers, which is why Wisconsin needs a Vulnerable User Law.

Bike Czar: Fun Exhibition for Milwaukee Bikeshare
Bike Czar

Fun Exhibition for Milwaukee Bikeshare

Poster art by a nationally known illustrator and cycling enthusiast helps raise money for Bike Share program.

Bike Czar: How to Deliver 500,000 Packages
Bike Czar

How to Deliver 500,000 Packages

Breakaway Bicycle Couriers, celebrating its 15th anniversary, has had a huge impact on local bike culture.

Bike Czar: Will Chicago’s Bike-Friendly Policies Steal Jobs from Seattle?
Bike Czar

Will Chicago’s Bike-Friendly Policies Steal Jobs from Seattle?

New high-tech companies and their workers want bike-friendly cities, and Chicago is out to beat Portland and Seattle in that regard.

Bike Czar: Feast or Famine
Bike Czar

Feast or Famine

The quickly changeable March weather is a test. Some days everyone is biking. Other days almost no one.

Bike Czar: Three Novels About Bicyclists
Bike Czar

Three Novels About Bicyclists

Cycling novels are on the rise. Three good reads I can recommend.

Bike Czar: Bigger State Pie, But Smaller Slice for Bikes
Bike Czar

Bigger State Pie, But Smaller Slice for Bikes

Gov. Walker grabs $38 million in federal money meant for bikes to hike his highways budget even higher.

Bike Czar: You Bike When It’s 5 Below?!
Bike Czar

You Bike When It’s 5 Below?!

Here's the best clothing and gear to wear in polar weather. But you might get tired of people asking you about it.

Bike Czar: A Fiscal Shell Game
Bike Czar

A Fiscal Shell Game

Legislators will likely transfer $500 million from the general fund to the transportation fund, yet bicycle funding will still get cut.

Bike Czar: The Problem with Icy Trails
Bike Czar

The Problem with Icy Trails

The city and county do a much better job of plowing and clearing streets than bike trails. That won't change until bikers start complaining.

Bike Czar: Will City Get Bike-share Program?
Bike Czar

Will City Get Bike-share Program?

Midwest Bikeshare has one-third of the money it needs to install 25 bikeshare stations with 250 bikes.

Bike Czar: A Primer on Transportation Funding
Bike Czar

A Primer on Transportation Funding

Want to get wonky with me? Here's a rundown of how the government bicycle programs actually work.

Bike Czar: Big Cuts in Bicycle Funding Likely
Bike Czar

Big Cuts in Bicycle Funding Likely

Federal and state funding for bicycle transit could be slashed by as much as 50 percent.

Bike Czar: 700 Santas Can’t Be Wrong
Bike Czar

700 Santas Can’t Be Wrong

The 12th annual Santa Cycle Rampage sets a new record for attendance.

Bike Czar: New Bridge to the Valley
Bike Czar

New Bridge to the Valley

The bike and pedestrian bridge will connect Mitchell Park to Hank Aaron trail and Menomonee Valley.

Bike Czar: New Route to Winter Farmers Market
Bike Czar

New Route to Winter Farmers Market

Take the Hank Aaron Trail right to the gate of the farmers market at State Fair Park.

Bike Czar: All I Want For Christmas
Bike Czar

All I Want For Christmas

Why I like to get and give my gifts from local companies.

Bike Czar: Sidewalk Cycling Can Kill
Bike Czar

Sidewalk Cycling Can Kill

Motorists don't see bicyclists on sidewalks, which can lead to accidents at intersections. What is the solution?

Bike Czar: Death By Auto
Bike Czar

Death By Auto

Bicyclists are getting killed by negligent drivers. A proposed law could address the problem.

Bike Czar: Hauling Pecks and Pounds by Bike
Bike Czar

Hauling Pecks and Pounds by Bike

Cargo bikes can move just about anything, including groceries.