Monday, June 15, 2015

What a Group Ride!

June 14th was our latest Co-Ed/Co-Led group ride, and boy was it fantastic! We had the largest turnout to date along with some new riders who joined. What a fabulous way to end our Sunday!

We've talked a bit about our Sunday Co-Ed/Co-Led group rides before- for those who have missed the blips about it:

Our Co-Ed/Co-Led rides are open to all riders of any experience level, however it is caitered to new riders who would like to get out on our trails. We go a casual pace and do our best to keep it friendly for the newest rider of the group.

It is a no-drop ride. Something we feel is a very important concept- No Rider Left Behind. We will not start a new trail without everyone in the group.

We want our group to be an encouraging environment for all riders, seasoned and not. For those who are new to our trails, they can be a challenge, so we want to do our best to make it a positive experience. Take the fear out and show that the trails can be ridden on two wheels!

For women who are unsure of joining a mixed group (men/women) all other Sundays are FWD rides dedicated to being a women-only ride.

Do keep in mind, if the first Sunday of the month doesn't work for the Co-Ed/Co-Led ride, we do reschedule it the following Sunday. The best way to stay updated on rides/postponed rides would be to join FWD-Fearless Women of Dirt on Facebook or go "Like" our Decorah Bicycles Facebook page.


A little about FWD-
Josie has seen the popularity of women-exclusive groups/rides in other areas and figured having something like that in Decorah wouldn't be a bad idea at all.

Also, sometimes women simply just like to hang out with like-minded women- the Sunday ride is a regularly scheduled event so it's easy to join when you can.

There are times when it's nice to go out on rides and have encouragement from other women as men and women sometimes view mountain biking differently (yet similar) so it's good to have options. Frankly, it's healthy! However, do not completely negate the fun of a co-ed ride, either!

Going out with others is a great way to potentially learn something new that can boost your confidence or help you with your techniques. We saw just that on our Co-Ed/Led Sunday ride where other experienced riders helped coach a couple of the newer riders. It was really fantastic to have a mix of different levels out together. You really do learn a lot! Plus, it's inspiring to see newer riders flourish and make accomplishments.

We would love the opportunity to ride with you, introduce you to our trails, or perhaps take you out on some trails you haven't been on yet. We really get inspired by seeing what other riders can accomplish- find out how rad our trails are and join us for a Sunday ride!

Other FAQs
Rental rates for the FWD or Co-Ed/Co-Led rides are $15.00 (includes helmet) this is a great way to try out a 29" mountain bike or fatbike.
We go a casual pace- this ride is not intended to be a hammerfest!
No-Drop
Encouragement and helpful advice only- no negative comments, bullying, etc.
When in doubt, walk it out- there is no shame in it!
No apologies necessary! If you can't make something or have to put a foot down, saying "I'm sorry" is not needed nor is making a comment on your riding skills (example- "I'm not a good rider, I'm sorry!") we want people to know that these things happen, it's okay to happen in front of others, and don't turn it into a negative. Be positive! "Dang! Next ride I'll get that climb!"

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