Come, Ride with Us

2017-03-20

  We’ve got it all as cyclists in Syracuse. Flat and smooth to the North. Rolling and scenic to the East. Hilly and challenging to the South. And a bit of everything to the West. But we tend to overlook the roads right under our wheels. Too often the City of Syracuse is just an obstacle we need to “power through” before arriving to “the ride.” It’s a shame. The roads, neighborhoods, and people that make up our city are treasures.

  However, there is a cycling group that gets in their miles riding the city streets. Departing from the Brady Faith Center, every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, the riders of Pedal to Possibilities wind their way through the Southside, the Valley, Sedgewick, and every neighborhood in between. I have been a proud member of Pedal to Possibilities since 2011. Here are three reasons why.

  One, there is no set of criteria to ride with Pedal to Possibilities. All are welcome. A typical ride at Pedal to Possibilities is made up of individuals facing homelessness, local community members, students, suburbanites, and whoever is feeling a ride that particular morning. There are very few activities out there that have zero barriers to entry. Pedal to Possibilities is one.

  Two, I love riding my bicycle in the city. Red lights become a nice rest break, not a patience testing hassle; so I smile more. I travel at a pace where I can recognize others walking and biking; so I wave more. And when on the bike, I don’t autopilot the journey; so I see more. Pedal to Possibilities affords the opportunity to smile, wave, and see.   

  And three, I love the people of Pedal to Possibilities. It is exciting to meet people who are so insightful due to ample life experience and diverse in every way. I always, without fail, leave Pedal to Possibilities in a better mood than when I arrived.

  Pedal to Possibilities has opened my eyes to the roads, neighborhoods, and people – the hidden treasures – that the City of Syracuse has to offer. Why not get a taste of those treasures too? Mark Sunday, June 4 on your calendar. Be a part of the 4th Annual Bike and Walk for Brady and come experience the treasures that exist right below our tires and shoes.