WHERE: Hundreds of locations world wide Join cyclists worldwide in a silent slow-paced ride (max. 12 mph/20 kph) in honor of those who have been injured or killed while cycling on public roadways.

WHY DOES THIS ORGANIZATION EXIST?

• To HONOR those who have been injured or killed
• To RAISE AWARENESS that we are here
• To ask that we all SHARE THE ROAD

THE RIDE OF SILENCE WILL NOT BE QUIET

On May 15, 2013 at 7:00 PM, the Ride of Silence began in North America and rolled across the globe. Cyclists took to the roads in a silent procession to honor cyclists who have been killed or injured while cycling on public roadways. Although cyclists have a legal right to share the road with motorists, the motoring public often isn't aware of these rights, and sometimes not aware of the cyclists themselves.

In 2003, Chris Phelan organized the first Ride of Silence in Dallas after endurance cyclist Larry Schwartz was hit by the mirror of a passing bus and was killed. (Read the full history here...)

The Ride of Silence is a free ride that asks its cyclists to ride no faster than 12 mph, wear helmets, follow the rules of the road and remain silent during the ride. There are no sponsors and no registration fees. The ride, which is held during National Bike Month, aims to raise the awareness of motorists, police and city officials that cyclists have a legal right to the public roadways. The ride is also a chance to show respect for and honor the lives of those who have been killed or injured.

IN MIAMI - THE 2013 RIDE OF SILENCE PROCESSION BEGAN AT MIAMI SCIENCE MUSEUM ON MAY 15TH AT 7:00 PM, AND WAS PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY EVERGLADES BICYCLE CLUB, MIAMI SCIENCE MUSEUM, AND THE CYCLING COMMUNITY.

Photo: With Maria Luisa (on left) Aaron Cohen's widow (on right), Patty, spoke to the group and thanked them for riding in support.

In remembrance of fallen cyclists and to bring awareness to bicycling safety, the Ride of Silence is a worldwide event held annually.  This year’s Miami version of the Ride of Silence was held in the month of May with 200-300 riders in attendance.  We organized in the parking lot of Miami Science Museum in Coconut Grove and opened with a passionate speech from ride organizer Maria Luisa Hoover, with other speakers voicing their plea for bike safety.

The route started south on South Bayshore Drive to City Hall, doubling back north up to the Brickell area, and safely back to the Science Museum.  The 10 mile route concluded with no incident, and in a surprisingly calm and orderly fashion.  Without a police escort, our ride marshals, led by Board member Rick Smit, provided directions, corked the intersections, and were sweepers for the slowest riders.

EBC is proud to support this ride as part of our increased focus on bicycle advocacy.  We thank Maria Luisa for her tireless efforts in organizing this ride each year and for her commitment to bike safety.  We also thank the Miami Science Museum for allowing the use of their property to stage the event, and a special thanks to all the patient drivers out there who stopped and waited for our group to pass even though they had the green light!