Every Wednesday morning, as the clock strikes 7:35 a.m., a colorful convoy of bicycles assembles to embark on a journey to Abernethy Elementary School in Portland. This gathering, known as a ‘bike bus,’ brings together students and parents in a joyful celebration of community and active transportation.
The bike bus phenomenon has taken root in at least 21 Portland schools, transforming the typical school run into an exciting and vibrant event. With children pedaling alongside enthusiastic adults, the air fills with music from speakers mounted on cargo bikes, creating an atmosphere of fun and camaraderie.
Lauren McCune, a dedicated bike bus captain, exemplifies the spirit of this initiative. Having long been an avid cyclist and a fan of community biking events like Pedalpalooza, McCune was drawn to the bike bus even before her daughter started kindergarten.
“I saw it and I was like, ‘I want that. I want that so bad,’” she recalls, describing how she was inspired by the sight of the bike bus while biking with her family. After connecting with other parents and joining their WhatsApp group, McCune became an integral part of the establishment.
The bike bus operates similarly to a traditional school bus, but on two wheels. Each week, the group follows established routes, stopping at designated points to pick up children while adhering to safety protocols.
McCune leads one of the routes—an organized schedule that reflects the commitment shared among parent volunteers. “We try to hit set routes… just like a yellow school bus where we pick folks up along the route,” she explains. Anyone can join the bike bus, fostering an inclusive atmosphere.
Safety is paramount as kids navigate the roads. Parent volunteers take on the role of watchful guardians, stopping traffic at intersections and helping the group signal when vehicles approach. In this community space, children learn about traffic awareness while mastering collective cycling skills together.
“We stop at stop signs, we yell ‘Car up!’ when traffic comes by,” McCune describes, highlighting the balance they’ve struck between safety and fun. The bike bus aims to create not only a secure environment but also an enjoyable experience for youngsters, including children as young as five years old.
With safety gear, signage, and first-aid kits, McCune and her fellow captains have taken extensive measures to promote well-being on these rides. Thankfully, their efforts have paid off, resulting in very few incidents on the road.
McCune proudly states, “We ride every Wednesday rain or shine… and knock on wood — we’ve never been late. Never missed second bell.” This punctuality underscores the dedication and meticulous planning that goes into each bike bus ride.
Despite the positivity the bike bus fosters, it has occasionally faced challenges from frustrated drivers. McCune notes that some motorists have exhibited impatience, trying to pass the bike bus aggressively, which can compromise safety.
She has a message for drivers: “If you see a bike bus, pull over and wait. Don’t pass us. It takes under a minute, and it makes all the difference in safety — and in showing these kids that they belong on the road.”
The continuation of the bike bus program relies heavily on the commitment of its captains, who devote hours to logistics, confirming volunteers, and ensuring smooth operations each week—without pay.
“We’re trying to get grant funding to turn some of these roles into paid positions,” McCune emphasizes, expressing hope for a future where organizing bike buses could become a supported endeavor rather than a volunteer effort alone.
Ultimately, the rewards for McCune and her fellow captains go beyond the establishment of sustainable transport for children. They witness not only a form of transportation but also a path to building confidence and independence in young cyclists.
“This isn’t just transportation,” McCune passionately states. “It’s confidence. It’s independence. And honestly? It’s the best part of my day.”
As the bike bus continues to roll through Portland, it serves as a vivid reminder of the power of community and the joy of cycling—transforming a simple school commute into a memorable adventure.
image source from：https://www.opb.org/article/2025/06/14/at-work-with-bike-bus-captain-school-kids/
