How to be an ally

and make cycling more accessible to everyone

Educate

Volunteer at a bike cooperative or with a learn to bike/earn a bike program.

Respect

Encourage non-typical riders by making them feel welcome and respected.

Act and Learn

Stop others when they make disrespectful jokes, comments or perpetuate stereotypes.

Encourage people to learn by only giving advice when it is asked for. Most people learn best from doing, not having someone else do it for them.

Aim your compliments at things that people have control over (like their ability to choose a good line when riding down a trail), rather than things they have no control over (like their body).

Understand that sometimes an ally’s role is to give people space to learn in their own way, how they feel comfortable.  

Assume that everyone is skilled and able; you’ll often by surprised just how capable people are if you give them space to shine.

Call people by their names and their preferred pronouns, rather than nicknames like “honey” or “bro.” Always ask what pronouns people prefer, rather than making an assumption.

Learn about gender inequality in cycling (including media representation, pay and access to gender specific gear)