Bike Bus Revolution Takes to the Streets of South Orange-Maplewood

More than 100 elementary school students — and 100+ parents — are biking to school together on safe routes and in large groups every Friday morning. And their numbers are growing.

The Village Green 11/15/2024

Excerpt:

The ecological and safety impacts of biking to school aside, [Martin] Ceperley said the bike bus is a fun and active way for kids to start their school day. The bike bus has a festive air, with Ceperley blasting up-tempo music as he alternatively leads and herds the bikers.

“We’re branching out,” says Ceperley. “It’s not just about schools. We have a social group. We organized a Halloween event that had over a hundred people. We’re organizing a Thanksgiving food drive event. We had a ride to South Mountain Reservation last weekend.”

“This isn’t just about getting to school. It’s really a community organization,” Ceperley added. “What we found is, it’s not really about bikes, but riding bikes together really is just so much fun. It’s so joyful for the kids and the parents. It’s kind of a way to bring the community together.”

Simone, a Seth Boyden 5th grader proves Ceperley’s point.

“I love it! Like a lot,” said Simone. “It’s really fun. One day I was feeling super upset and I went on the bike bus and it made me feel a lot better.”