Annual Ride of Silence to raise cycling safety awareness
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Cycling communities across the country are coming together for a good cause including a ride right here in the capital city.
The Montgomery Bicycle Club is hosting its annual Ride of Silence starting at 6:45PM Wednesday, May 20. The ride will start at the downtown Riverfront tunnel entrance.
Everyone is welcome to join the free ride but there are some rules including:
- Must wear helmet at all times
- Ride no faster than 12 mph
- Follow the rules of the road
- Remain silent during the ride
Last year, the Ride of Silence organization reported more than 200 events were held across 38 different states. Wednesday will mark the 24th year for the event.
May is National Bicycle Safety Month and this annual event helps raise awareness for the importance of keeping cyclists safe. The Ride of Silence is used to honor those who have been injured or died while riding bikes.
“This ride means a lot to us because several of our club members and volunteers have been directly affected by the loss of loved ones while participating in the activity of cycling. The names we read of fallen cyclists before each year’s ride exist as more than just a name on a sheet of paper but they are also someone’s child or father or sister, and often some of those people might be riding next to you. Cycling safety and advocacy not only keeps us safe but also helps us to be good ambassadors for the sport and show others the joy we all share while on our bicycles.”
Nic Wright, Montgomery Bicycle Club
Alabama sits near the bottom of the nation at 46th overall, lagging behind significantly in infrastructure planning, education and safety encouragement, according to the League of American Bicyclists’ 2024 “Bicycle Friendly States” rankings.
For more information on the global movement, visit the official Ride of Silence website.
