All Bodies on Bikes: New Film Celebrates Inclusive Cycling | Outside Online
The cycling world is continuing to broaden its embrace of inclusivity, as highlighted by the new short film, “We Are Cyclists.” The film revisits the impactful All Bodies on Bikes movement, five years after the release of its original film, and demonstrates the significant growth and evolution of the initiative.
What began as a powerful statement – that cyclists of all body types deserve a place within the sport – has blossomed into a thriving nonprofit organization. “We Are Cyclists” documents the expansion of All Bodies on Bikes to include 14 chapters across the United States, alongside a continually expanding global community. The film reflects on the journey of the movement and its ongoing efforts to create a more welcoming and affirming environment for all riders.
The original All Bodies on Bikes initiative emerged from a recognized gap in the cycling community. Historically, the sport has often presented barriers to entry for riders who don’t fit a narrow, conventional image. These barriers aren’t necessarily intentional, but stem from factors like limited gear availability in larger sizes, a lack of representation in marketing materials, and sometimes, subtle biases within cycling culture itself. All Bodies on Bikes directly addresses these issues by advocating for greater inclusivity and visibility.
The movement’s success isn’t simply about acknowledging the problem; it’s about actively building solutions. The establishment of chapters across the U.S. Demonstrates a commitment to localized support and community building. These chapters likely offer group rides tailored to different skill levels, advocacy for bike infrastructure that accommodates diverse riders, and educational resources promoting body positivity within the sport. The global expansion suggests that the message of inclusivity resonates far beyond American borders.
Shimano’s involvement, as evidenced by the film “We Are Cyclists,” signals a growing recognition within the cycling industry of the importance of diversity and inclusion. Shimano, a major manufacturer of cycling components, lending its support to the All Bodies on Bikes story is a significant step. It suggests a willingness to not only acknowledge the need for change but to actively contribute to it. This support likely extends beyond financial contributions and may include collaborative efforts to develop more inclusive product lines and marketing campaigns.
The timing of this film’s release, , is noteworthy. As cycling continues to gain popularity – fueled by factors like increased awareness of environmental concerns and the desire for healthy outdoor activities – the need to ensure that the sport is accessible to everyone becomes even more critical. A more inclusive cycling community isn’t just a matter of social justice; it’s as well a matter of sustainability. Expanding the base of riders ensures the long-term health and vitality of the sport.
The impact of All Bodies on Bikes extends beyond simply getting more people on bikes. It’s about challenging preconceived notions about who belongs in cycling and creating a space where riders of all shapes, sizes, and backgrounds feel welcome and empowered. The movement’s success demonstrates that inclusivity isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s a fundamental ingredient for a thriving and sustainable sporting community. “We Are Cyclists” serves as a powerful reminder of the progress that has been made and the work that still lies ahead in building a truly inclusive cycling world.
The film’s release is likely to spark further conversations within the cycling industry and among riders about how to create a more welcoming and equitable environment. It’s a call to action for brands, retailers, and individuals to examine their own biases and actively work to dismantle barriers to participation. The story of All Bodies on Bikes is a testament to the power of grassroots movements to drive meaningful change and inspire a more inclusive future for cycling.