SEATTLE "“ Outdoor gear and apparel retailer, Recreational Equipment, Inc. (REI), invites riders of all skill levels to join the self-propelled revolution. Whether riding your bike for short errands or for hundreds of miles, REI has the bicycles, accessories, tools, and certified bike experts ready to assist and inspire people to choose bicycles over their cars.

With more than 100 stores across the country, REI inspires and educates people to check their bicycles for comfort and safety before riding. The co-op offers free entry-level bicycle maintenance classes that teach the basics you need to know to get out on the road, including a hands-on demonstration of how to fix a flat tire, and advice on cleaning and lubing your chain.

Many REI stores offer REI Outdoor School, an educational program that teaches entry-level day-long outdoor excursions. Bicycling classes focus on "how to ride a bike" and introductory classes for road cycling, commuting and mountain biking. To view available bike shops and events visit www.rei.com and click on "store locator." For Outdoor School classes in your area, visit www.rei.com/outdoorschool.

Additionally, the co-op offers a variety of bicycle brands in stores and online, including REI's award-winning Novara house-brand. With a new bicycle and apparel line for spring, REI offers something for everyone http://www.rei.com/category/4500003.

May is bike to work month! REI can help get riders ready with REI's "Bike Your Drive" www.rei.com/bikeyourdrive, an online resource created to inspire more people to cycle by debunking myths and breaking down common barriers associated with using a bicycle as an alternate means of transportation around town.

The frequently updated site offers helpful "how-to" video demonstrations, a calculator to show environmental, caloric and financial "savings," and recommended cycling gear essentials. REI's online expert advice and other tools assist riders of all skill levels in understanding proper safety procedures, bike maintenance and the rules of the road.

With this online tool, aspiring cyclists can input mileage to calculate the calories burned, carbon emissions reduced and money saved by riding a bicycle instead of driving. For example, a rider that completes 50 miles per week burns 2,350 calories, saves $11 in gas, and reduces carbon dioxide emissions by 48 pounds, simply by not using a gas-powered car. In one year, riding 50 miles per week burns 122,200 calories, saves $572 in gas and reduces carbon dioxide emissions by 2,496 pounds.

Through its giving program, REI supports national and local non-profits that promote getting people active and outdoors. In the past two years alone, REI has donated more than $1 million in grant funding to organizations that promote cycling. Examples of grantees include Bikes Belong Foundation, Adventure Cycle Association, the International Mountain Bicycling Association and local cycling clubs from Los Angeles to Boston that promote safety, access and stewardship.

About REI

REI is a national outdoor retail cooperative dedicated to inspiring, educating and outfitting its members and the community for a lifetime of outdoor adventure and stewardship. Founded in 1938 by a group of Pacific Northwest mountaineers seeking quality equipment, REI operates retail stores nationwide, two online stores "“ www.rei.com and www.REI-OUTLET.com "“ and an adventure travel company, REI Adventures. REI offers products from all of the top brands for camping, climbing, cycling, fitness, hiking, paddling, snow sports and travel, including its own line of award-winning outdoor gear and apparel. While anyone may join or shop at REI, members pay a one-time $20 fee and receive a share in the company's profits through an annual member refund based on their purchases. As an active supporter of the communities in which it does business, REI is committed to promoting environmental stewardship and increasing access to outdoor recreation through education, volunteerism, gear donations and financial contributions.

Recreational Equipment, Inc. (REI)

Recreational Equipment, Inc. (REI)

REI is an outdoor retail co-op dedicated to inspiring, educating and outfitting its members and the community for a lifetime of outdoor adventure. Founded in 1938 by a group of Pacific Northwest mountaineers seeking quality equipment, REI operates retail stores nationwide, two online stores and an adventure travel company, REI Adventures. REI offers products from top brands for camping, climbing, cycling, hiking, outdoor fitness, paddling, snowsports and travel, including its own line of award-winning gear and apparel. REI is committed to promoting environmental stewardship and increasing access to outdoor recreation through education, volunteerism, gear donations and financial contributions.

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