I was asked if I would organize a cycling group for people who indicated on their Small Group surveys that they would be interested in this activity. Obviously the goals and activities for this group will be designed around the needs and interests of those who are part of the group. I am very interested to hear what these needs and interests might be!
To get the discussion started, here are a few things we might consider pursuing:
- Schedule at least one group ride per week throughout the summer and into the fall. Or perhaps schedule one weekday evening ride and one weekend ride each week. There would be no obligation to participate on every ride, of course. We realize that people are very busy, but we just want to provide as many opportunities as possible. Some people might be more free during the week than on the weekend. Others (like retirees or teachers or meteorologist shift-workers) might plan to ride on a quiet weekday morning. Even if we get just 2-3 people on a ride together, that's more fun than riding alone. If nothing else, this group puts you in touch with potential riding partners.
- Become familiar with the many great bike paths around the area.
- Learn safe on-street routes around Plainfield, and routes for riding to various bike paths from the Plainfield area. For example, show people how to ride from Plainfield to Oswego to access the Fox River Trail.
- Learn how to navigate between various trails in order to create a longer or more diverse route. For example, show people how to safely and easily ride through Aurora in order to make the connection between the southernmost portion of the Fox River Trail (Oswego to Aurora) and the main portion of the trail (north of Aurora).
- Teach basic bike maintenance and show people what kind of tools and equipment they may wish to carry with them on their ride. Examples: frame pump, extra water bottles, patch kit, spare tube, etc.
- Publicize biking events around the Chicagoland area that members of the group may wish to participate in together. Example: Bike the Drive on Memorial Day Sunday.
- Set various distance goals to complete throughout the year. These could be for a single ride, a given weekend, or a cumulative total. Speaking from personal experience as someone who really only started riding (regularly) three years ago, at first I had no idea what I was capable of. Honestly, 20 miles initially seemed like an infinite trek, but soon I got to where 30 miles was the distance I rode after work if I was really short on time. And the first time I rode 50 miles I thought I was going to keel over. But about 6-weeks later I completed my first Century Ride (100 miles in a day). So there are all kinds of options!
- Plan some longer outings where we ride for a while, have lunch together, and then ride back home (to our starting point).
- Encourage others to join our group. We certainly want to make sure other church members are aware of this activity, but something like this is also a great way to introduce our church to non-members.
What I am trying to say is: everyone is welcome in this group.
We can ride as fast or as slow as we need to. Those who like to ride faster just get a longer break while waiting for those who like to ride slower. It's no big deal either way. The point is to encourage each other and to have a lot of fun. Biking is something that all types of people can enjoy participating in together!
So...with those thoughts shared, let's hear what everyone else has to say. Speak up! Don't be shy!! What specifically are you hoping to get out of this cycling group???
Eric: This blog is awesome! So glad we asked you to lead this group! Jason's bummed that he can't make it this weekend, but he's planning on getting a new bike (to replace the one he got when he was in 5th grade!) and joining you next time! : )
ReplyDelete- Laura