Pep Raleigh

Google gives out bikes to 2,000 employees across the pond

We have a vague recollection that there was life before Google, but it must have been a sad, empty sort of life. Anyone recall? While you're casting your memory back there, lord, we'll update you on the latest from the altruistic search engine: they're giving free bikes (and helmets) to 2,000 employees in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. "We think that these amazing bikes will help Googlers keep fit and healthy, get to know their city better, and reduce the environmental impact of their journey to work," says Liane Hornsey, HR director for the region. The shift will also provide a side benefit for the company: the folding and hybrid cycles, made by Raleigh Europe, will bear the Google logo. Smaht! The bike blitz follows last fall's announcement that Google will juice its California headquarters with solar energy, in the form of rooftop panels and solar parking-lot "trees." The company even got an award this week for using free-range eggs. It all just makes us feel warm and googly inside.