Bicycle Solidarity RideOn the last Friday of every month, a Free Bicycle Solidarity Ride is held to promote cycling in Washington and to build a sense of community among area cyclists. The ride is open to cyclists of all ages, sexes, races, nationalities, religions, lifestyles, hair colors, shoe sizes and riding abilities.
The pack will leave Dupont Circle at 6:15 p.m. sharp and will follow a predetermined, theme-based route that changes each month. The rides range from 5 to 10 miles and move at a slow-to-comfortable pace. All traffic rules are followed, which results in several packs moving along the course as the original group is broken up by stop lights. Regrouping areas are set throughout the course to let the groups reconvene and then begin again. This system lets riders of all abilities enjoy the ride at a comfortable pace.
The rides are meant to increase public awareness of cyclists on DC streets, not to clog traffic. The cycling groups should use only one lane of traffic and leave the others to cars since impeding their progress will only infuriate commuters and defy the purpose of the rides.
Riders should descend on Dupont Circle on Friday, Oct. 31, before 6:15 p.m. to take advantage of pre-ride services provided by mechanics from City Bikes and other offerings.
