DES MOINES, IA – BIKEIOWA announces their 20th annual Ride of Silence, taking place on May 15th, 2024, in Des Moines, Iowa at the SW corner of the State Historical Museum of Iowa in the East Village. This solemn international event will traverse and unite the globe as cyclists gather for a silent, slow-paced 8 mile ride to honor those who have lost their lives or been injured while cycling on Iowa's public roadways.
The event will start at 6:30 pm with various speakers sharing their motivations for participating in the ride followed by a visual shout-out for the Iowans who have been hit or killed since last May. Attendees are encouraged to join in and reflect on and remember who they ride for. At 7:00 pm, the world-wide silent procession ride will begin, emphasizing the need for greater awareness and respect for cyclists on the road.
"Our 20th year hosting the Ride of Silence is a testament to our unwavering commitment to honoring the lives lost and advocating for safer roadways for cyclists," said Scott Sumpter of BIKEIOWA.com. "Through this silent tribute, we aim to raise awareness of cyclists' presence on the road and urge motorists to share the road safely."
The Ride of Silence extends far beyond Des Moines, with over 200 rides across the United States and in 15+ countries worldwide. Other Iowa Ride of Silence events will occur in Cedar Falls, Cedar Rapids and Sergeant Bluff.
"While cyclists have the legal right to share the road with motorists, the reality is that many drivers are not fully aware of this or fail to recognize cyclists altogether," added Luke Hoffman of the Iowa Bicycle Coalition. "By coming together in silence, we send a powerful message: every cyclist deserves to reach their destination safely."
Participants are reminded to maintain a slow pace of 10-12 mph or less during the ride, ensuring a safe and respectful atmosphere as we pay homage to fallen cyclists and advocate for a brighter, safer future for all road users.
For more information on the Ride of Silence in Des Moines and how to participate, visit BIKEIOWA.com/Event/15699.
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