Andrea Deleon

How long have you been bicycling and how did you get started?

I've been biking since I was a young girl. My dad taught me how to ride a bike and growing up my family and I loved riding our bikes together to the park.

What advice would you give to someone looking to get started going by bike?

I recommend biking with a friend, neighbor, family member, co-worker, or bike group to help you feel more comfortable being on the road. It's a fun way to exercise with others and there is safety in numbers!

How do protected bike lanes support your commute?

Biking on a protected bike lane makes a huge difference by giving me more space and visibility from other vehicles. I also feel more safe and confident to bike faster, and will more likely bike along a street with a protected lane than one that doesn't have one.

Where are your favorite places to bike to in San Diego?

I love biking around Mission Bay, along Pacific Beach, Balboa Park, and in the neighborhoods between City Heights to Hillcrest. I also enjoy just being on my bike to run errands to the grocery store or make a stop to get tacos or ice cream!

What makes San Diego a great place to bike?

The good San Diego weather makes it a joy to bike outside! I love the feeling of the warm sunshine and cool breeze on my skin as I bike around. There are also so many good smells that I pass by when I'm biking through neighborhoods from the sweet scents of garden flowers, outdoor barbecues, or fragrant hops from local breweries.

What's the one thing you think people should know about biking?

Biking is a great way to feel more connected to the community! You can experience the city differently and see interesting businesses, homes, beaches, parks, and events that you would not have noticed in a car. It's also easier to explore new sights along the way or stop and say hi to friends or start a conversation with a neighbor.