From time to time, DCSki will provide detailed information about web sites that we feel are worth looking into. This week, we take a look at the web site of the Washington Area Bicyclist Association (WABA). WABA, formed in 1972, lobbies for bicyclists’ rights in the area and sponsors activities such as rides and bike swaps. WABA also sponsors the Bicycle Helmet Safety Institute, a non-profit helmet advocacy organization.

WABA has been working behind the scenes for many years to improve the lives of bicyclists in the region. Among their successes, WABA was instrumental in expanding the D.C. Metro’s “bike-on-rail” program, allowing commuters to transport their bicycles on the Metro during certain hours. WABA also deserves credit for increasing bicycle rights-of-way on critical roads, and for championing legislation that benefits bicyclists.

WABA maintains a web site that provides a wealth of information for bicyclists in the D.C. area. You can find out more about their organization, including past and future projects. You can peruse their ride calendar or find out when the next bike swap will be. WABA also maintains a list of web site links for bicyclists in the D.C. region. Annual memberships in WABA start as low as $15 for low-income families. In addition to the many resources WABA offers its members, members can receive discounts at local bike shops.