Join the Ride of Silence

By David Newman • May 11th, 2009 • Category: Advocacy, Lead Story

image002The Conejo Valley Cyclists and the City of Thousand Oaks invite all concerned cyclists to join us for our second annual Ride of Silence. The May 20 ride leaves at 7 pm from the Countrywide parking lot (NW corner of Hillcrest and Wilbur in Thousand Oaks), with riders encouraged to begin gathering at 6:30 pm.

Last year we had more than 150 riders join in. This year we hope to more than double that number.

The Ride of Silence is a solemn observance of the death or injury of all our brothers and sisters due to accidents between their bicycles and motor vehicles on the road. Join us as we ride a short 10 miles at a slow 12-mph pace to honor the memory of the 600-plus cyclists who die each year on our roads.

We are working with the Ventura County Sheriff’s Department to have possible rolling traffic breaks to keep together as one peloton.

Join cyclists worldwide in a silent slow-paced 10 mile ride (12 mph) in honor of those who have been injured or killed while cycling on public roadways.



WHY DOES THE RIDE OF SILENCE EXIST?

* To HONOR those who have been injured or killed
* To RAISE AWARENESS that we are here
* To ask that we all SHARE THE ROAD

THE RIDE OF SILENCE WILL NOT BE QUIET

On May 20, 2009, at 7:00 PM, the Ride of Silence will begin in North America and roll across the globe. Cyclists will take to the roads in a silent procession to honor cyclists who have been killed or injured while cycling on public roadways. Although cyclists have a legal right to share the road with motorists, the motoring public often isn’t aware of these rights, and sometimes not aware of the cyclists themselves.

The Ride Of Silence is a free ride that asks  cyclists to ride no faster than 12 mph and remain silent during the ride. There is no brochure, no sponsors and no registration fees. The ride, which is held during Bike Safety month, aims to raise the awareness of motorists, police and city officials that cyclists have a legal right to the public roadways. The ride is also a chance to show respect for those who have been killed or injured.

Helmets Mandatory ● Lights Suggested

For more information, please see the official Ride of Silence webpage.

David Newman is a fan of jazz, photography and bikes that go fast.
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2 Responses »

  1. Deanne Wilson on April 29th, 2009 at 22:13:

    Where is it starting and ending at? I didn’t see a location listed above, Please advise. Thank you. :)

  2. David Newman on April 29th, 2009 at 22:29:

    Hi Deanne,

    Sorry for leaving out those important details. Here’s the info: The May 20 ride leaves at 7 pm from the Countrywide parking lot (NW corner of Hillcrest and Wilbur in Thousand Oaks), with riders encouraged to begin gathering at 6:30 pm.

    I’ve added that into the main post as well.

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