Ride to Work Day 2026: Five reasons to leave the car at home

By improving the average motorist’s awareness of motorcycles, our chances of avoiding such collisions only improve. At least, that’s the logic behind the 35th annual Ride to Work Day.

Established in 1992, RTW has consistently upheld one goal: improving the visibility, and thereby the safety, of motorcyclists. Hence, Aerostich founder and long-time RTW organizer Andy Goldfine's efforts to increase participation in the event year after year. 

Basically, the more motorcyclists on the road during RTW, the more the general population will take note, making the roadways safer for all riders. That’s reason enough to participate. However, it isn’t the only incentive in 2026. This rider can think of four others.  

Fuel savings

I’ll state the obvious. Gas is on the rise. It isn’t showing signs of falling anytime soon, either. Luckily, fuel economy is one major advantage of riding a motorcycle. There are exceptions, of course. Flagship superbikes, big-bore cruisers, and anything V-four-powered probably aren’t returning favorable mpg figures. Those who drive a hybrid vehicle, PHEV, or EV likely stand to benefit even less. But if none of those conditions apply, chances are your bike can give you a break at the pump. 

Summer weather

It isn’t June 21 yet, but summer weather is well on its way. Aside from a few pockets of the country, daytime highs are creeping up throughout the States. That means ideal conditions for riding your motorcycle. With spring showers receding and summer heat waves at bay (for now), there’s hardly a better time to log miles on the bike. Why not do so by going for a ride during RTW? 

Mental benefits

Countless motorcyclists see riding as a form of therapy. I’m no medical professional. I can’t legitimize such claims. What I can say is that riding is an effective outlet. Riding a motorcycle demands your full concentration. Little attention can be paid to the stressors of life. That includes pressure at the workplace. Starting and ending your day on the bike can help relieve those pressures.

 

Community

If you work at an office of any considerable size, you’re probably not the only motorcyclist among your colleagues. Opting for the bike on RTW can help introduce you to your riding coworkers. Many workplaces have designated parking spots for motorcycles. Sometimes, that’s all it takes to strike up a conversation between riders. You never know which one of your fellow employees is also fellow motorcyclist, be it a Hog-owning CFO or a Gixxer-riding janitor. You just might meet such workmates if you ride on RTW.