More Children Are Powering Their Own Wheels to School as Part of ‘Bike Buses’

In Tempe, Arizona, dozens of kids make their way to school on an unusual "bus." Rather than the traditional yellow, diesel-run vehicle, a "bike bus" consists of children and parents traveling to school on bicycles and is becoming more frequest across the West as parents and schools look for ways to get students moving their bodies.

According to advocates, hopping aboard the bike bus helps boost kids’ physical and mental health, improves classroom performance and fights climate change.

Despite the benefits of bike buses and other active commuting programs, organizers still face challenges such as lack of cycling infrastructure in communities. Some critics also point out that they serve mostly wealthier neighborhoods, as bicycle purchase and maintenance can be financially restrictive.