Advocacy

Ideals to Action: Climate Ride 2015

We believe bikes are not just a form of recreation but an integral element in a path toward more sustainable systems of transportation, public space, and consumption. At the end of May, our LA regional Sales Rep Greg participated in the California North Coast Climate Ride, a 5-day supported tour that promotes environmental stewardship and education. Below are Greg’s reflections on his experiences during the ride and how his work at Dero cultivates an active approach to advocacy. (All photos by Greg).
  1.       Why did you participate in the Climate Ride?

I participated in Climate Ride because I wanted to raise money to support the work of the LA County Bicycle Coalition. Having been a volunteer for a number of years now, I’ve seen firsthand the effect of their advocacy work to make safer streets in Los Angeles. I’d also never participated in a long-distance trek like Climate Ride, so I wanted to see if I could handle the physical task of 320+ miles. On the ride, I competed my first 100-mile “century” day, traveled the fastest I’d ever gone (41 mph!) and saw/rode through the Redwoods for the first time. Greg-LACBC
  1.       Who did you ride with?

I rode with Team LACBC – the largest and rowdiest group participating on the ride. Together, we raised a total of over $110K! This money will go towards supporting LACBC’s education and advocacy efforts to make LA a healthy, fun and safe place to ride a bike. You can still make a donation here if you’d like.
  1.       What kind of preparation did you do before the ride?

Armed with blissful optimism and the sophomoric knowledge that I bike every day, I only did a couple training rides before we left for the trip. I’d say the biggest hurdle in prepping for a 5-day bike trip was packing the right kits since I’m used to sunny SoCal weather. After this trip, I’m now the proud owner of some very toasty arm warmers, and I love them. Greg-redwoods
  1.       What did you learn about sustainability and active transportation from the ride?

On the first day, we stopped at a place called the Solar Living Institute and learned about the great work they’re doing to support solar training and sustainable living education. On other nights, we got to hear from Grid Alternatives, Corrine Winter of the Silicon Valley Bike Coalition, Amelia Conlen of Bike Santa Cruz County, Renee Rivera of Bike East Bay and LACBC’s own Education Director Colin Bogart. It was amazing and inspiring to hear about all of the current efforts being made by these and other groups all over the country. More and more, communities of people are beginning to realize the numerous benefits of cycling. Not only is it healthy for people and the environment, but it’s good for businesses too.
  1.       Why do you support bicycling advocacy?

I’m a person on a bike in Los Angeles because I hate sitting in traffic. I support bike advocacy because some people don’t have access to alternate forms of transportation and the streets should be safe for everyone. For cyclists who are just starting out, it can be very intimidating to get on the road and share the lane with cars. Better infrastructure has to take first priority and I’m really proud to see that the City is on it’s way to having Great Streets.   Greg-goldengate
  1.       How does Dero support cycling advocacy?

I see Dero’s products as an integral part of cycling advocacy. No matter where or what you ride, you always need to find a safe place to park. Whether it’s a new Fixit Station, Cycle Stall or Hoop Rack, Dero is helping to provide a more rich cycling experience for the residents of LA. It’s great to witness the drastic changes that have taken place in this city over the last few years and I’m so excited for what’s to come. I also want to say thank you to Dero for supporting and helping me reach my Climate Ride fundraising goal. It’s a great feeling – getting to work for a company that’s just as passionate about cycling as me.