Clinton Bike Rodeo Rolls to Success with Helmets, Lights, and Smiles

This week, the Clinton Police Department hosted a successful bike rodeo that brought the community together in a big way. With support from a variety of local partners, the event welcomed families from across the area for an afternoon focused on bicycle safety, fun, and giving back.

One of the highlights of the rodeo was the giveaway of over 100 bike helmets, ensuring that more young riders in Clinton can pedal safely this summer. Iowa Safe Routes to School was proud to participate by handing out free bike lights to help kids ride safely in low-light conditions. The rodeo course itself was both fun and educational, giving kids a chance to practice real-world riding skills like stopping, turning, and scanning for traffic, all in a controlled and supportive environment.

Children could enter a raffle to win a brand-new bike or scooter after visiting every station at the event, encouraging them to engage with all the safety and educational opportunities available. Excitement built as each child completed the course and turned in their completed station card for a chance to win. Adults could participate in the fun by operating a tricyle while wearing drunk goggles. A good reminder about the dangers of operating a vehicle while under the influence.

In addition to safety gear, other local organizations pitched in by providing free backpacks and school supplies, helping families get a jumpstart on the upcoming school year.

The Clinton Bike Rodeo is a great example of how communities can come together to create safe, healthy, and fun opportunities for kids. Events like this don’t just teach important safety lessons—they build community, promote active transportation, and set the stage for a lifetime of confident riding.

Iowa Safe Routes to School is funded through a matching grant, help us raise our 20% of the grant right here to continue our efforts to expand active transportation opportunities across the state. Thank you.