Around Town

Tysons Community Alliance offers free demos to encourage bicycling

The Capital Bikeshare station at Jones Branch Drive and Blyton Street in Tysons (via Google Maps)

The Tysons Community Alliance (TCA) wants to make the case that two wheels can be just as effective as four for getting around Tysons.

The nonprofit booster group is inviting community members to familiarize themselves with the area’s bicycle and scooter options with two Capital Bikeshare demonstrations this week, followed by a more extensive “Wheel Wise” event with safety tips and swag bags.

The first Capital Bikeshare demo will take place from 4:30-6:30 p.m. tomorrow (Thursday) at the Jones Branch Drive and Blyton Street station in front of Highgate at the Mile. The TCA will also be at the Greensboro Drive and Pinnacle Drive station from 10 a.m. to noon on Saturday (July 13).

To further encourage people to try the rental bicycle service as an alternative to driving, the TCA is offering a $4 discount on the first ride for anyone who downloads the Capital Bikeshare app and uses the promo code TYSONSTRYCABI. The offer will be available through July 31.

Close to two dozen Capital Bikeshare stations have been installed in Tysons since Fairfax County first joined the network in 2016. The county now has over 80 stations with more planned in the Huntington Metro station area.

Docking stations have also recently been added in Fairfax City, and the Town of Vienna hopes to start installing pads for three stations later this summer.

In addition, e-scooter newbies can get 25% off their first three Bird rides by entering the promo code TYSONS2024, according to the TCA’s demo announcement.

Bird, the only permitted electric scooter provider, has about 300 of the devices around Fairfax County.

The cycling advocacy will continue on Saturday, July 20 with “Wheel Wise,” which will bring demos, safety presentations, a bicycle decorating station and a return of the mobility maze to The PARC at Tysons (8508 Leesburg Pike) from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

“Mark your calendars and come join us for a fun-filled day discovering the joys of wheeled transportation at Wheel Wise,” the TCA said. “Whether you’re a seasoned rider or just starting out, there’s something for everyone.”

Here’s more on what to expect from the TCA:

Hands-On Demos: Try out a range of wheeled transportation options. Vendors will be showcasing electric bikes, folding bikes, scooters, and various bike accessories.

Education and Safety: Learn essential safety tips and maintenance tricks from experts. Presentations by Fairfax Alliance for Better Bicycling (FABB) will cover bike safety, while REI Bike Shop will offer insights into basic bike maintenance and tune-ups.

Learn how to load your bike onto a Fairfax Connector bus with the help of experienced users.

Community and Networking: Connect with cycling clubs and fellow enthusiasts. Whether you’re looking for a new biking community or seeking riding companions, this is the perfect opportunity to network and find like-minded individuals.

Exclusive Offers: Pick up swag bags and take advantage of special discounts, including 50% off child seat installation at REI. It’s not just about learning; it’s about getting equipped for your next wheeled adventure. Take advantage of the Bike Maintenance & Tune-ups by REI Staff.

Fun Activities: Get creative at our bike decoration station with handmade tassels and stickers. Kids can enjoy the Mobility Garden, featuring scooters and helmets for safe riding.

Screenshot via Google Maps

About the Author

  • Angela Woolsey is the site editor for FFXnow. A graduate of George Mason University, she worked as a general assignment reporter for the Fairfax County Times before joining Local News Now as the Tysons Reporter editor in 2020.