Trek Bicycles has begun a campaign to get more of us riding our bikes for short trips.  The Wisconsin-based company's new endeavor, 1 World 2 Wheels, includes a "Go by Bike" challenge and a goal to increase bike trips in the U.S. from 1% to 5% of all trips by 2017.  (Here in Portland, we're aiming a little higher - 15%.)

The campaign really focuses on those short trips that we take everyday - the bank, the coffee shop, the library, the grocery store, and on and on and on.

Here are some compelling reasons to hop on your old bike for those quick jaunts out:

Although this week may not convince you, your bike is often the easiest way to get around your neighborhood and accomplish those short trips.  Give it a try!  One trip each week can make a big difference in neighborhood traffic, climate change pollution, and your health!