Community Bike Rides

What is a Community Bike Ride?

A Community Bike Ride is a fun, social, and inclusive group ride designed to bring people together through bicycling. These rides are typically free, guided by local leaders, and open to all ages and skill levels. Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or just getting started, community bike rides offer a welcoming way to explore your city, meet neighbors, and enjoy the benefits of biking in a relaxed and supportive environment.

Want to Lead Your Own Community Bike Ride?

Leading a community bike ride isn’t just about pedaling from point A to B.  A community ride is about connection, empowerment, and joy. Once you know your why, your ride will have purpose and people will feel that energy.  Before you plan your route or invite others, take a moment to ask yourself:

Why do you want to lead a ride?

Your why is your personal motivation, and it will guide how you lead and inspire others to ride with you. Maybe it’s one of these—or something all your own:

• To build community: You want to connect neighbors and make new friends.
• To make biking accessible: You believe everyone should feel safe and welcome on a bike.
• To show a different side of your city: You love discovering parks, art, and local gems on two wheels.
• To support a cause: You want to raise awareness for a community issue or celebrate a special event.
• To boost health and happiness: You’ve felt the mental and physical benefits of biking and want to share that joy.

Leading a community bike ride is a rewarding way to promote biking, build connections, and encourage active transportation. Here’s what you need to know to get started:

• Consider the group: Pick a distance and pace that fits the intended audience.  Include rest stops or points of interest.  Make the ride inclusive for kids, families, and new riders should feel welcome if it's meant to be casual.
• Know your route:  Plan a safe, scenic, and accessible route.  Choose quiet streets, multi-use paths, or bike lanes where possible.  Test the route ahead of time to spot potential issues like construction or tricky intersections.
• Get the word out:  Share date, time, location, and ride details clearly.  Include information about helmets or use of lights,  and any weather-related plans.  Use local social media, newsletters, or community boards to spread the word.
• Lead with safety in mind:  Encourage riders to bring helmets, water, and lights if riding near dusk.  Carry a basic first aid kit and bike repair tools.  Have a plan for emergencies or mechanical issues.
• Lead with confidence:  Arrive early to greet participants and set expectations with a quick safety talk before starting. Designate a lead and a tail for your ride to ensure all riders stay together.
• Be kind! And follow the rules of the road:  Follow traffic laws and model good behavior.  Be courteous to pedestrians, cars, and other cyclists.

Have fun! Celebrate the ride and your riders, it is about building community!

Upcoming Community Rides

Sunset to Summer a Community Bike Ride: Sunday, September 21st  lead by SMART Transit

Past Community Rides

HeART's of Wilsonville Bike Tour: lead by SMART Transit and Wilsonville Parks and Recreation