There are plenty of things that keep people from biking in Portland. Shaming them for “doing it wrong” is a terrible thing to do.

Unfortunately there’s a strong gatekeeper culture around cycling that can not only ruin the experience for new riders, it can be powerful enough to prevent fence-sitters from ever taking the plunge.



A story in the Portland Mercury issue on newsstands this week is a good illustration of this problem. “You’re Riding Your Bike Wrong: Great Job Biking! Now Maybe You Can Start Doing It Right!” reads the headline. Ironically the byline, The Portland Mercury Bicycle Gang, only furthers the cliquish vibe.

Thankfully our friends at the nonprofit Bikes for Humanity PDX penned a wonderful response. We’ve pasted it below with their permission:

25 Ways You’re Riding Your Bike “Right” Too many folks are nervous about riding because they don’t want to do it “wrong.” The truth is, there are a million awesome ways to ride your bike. Here’s a very non-comprehensive list. You’re doing something “right” if you’re: 1. Having fun 2. Getting where you need to go 3. Going at your own pace 4. Wearing whatever makes you comfortable 5. Paying attention to your surroundings 6. Aware of biking laws, or planning to learn soon 7. A first-time rider 8. Visiting the city 9. Respectful of pedestrians 10. An athlete 11. Riding with friends 12. A fair-weather rider 13. Exploring new neighborhoods 14. Carrying cargo or pulling a trailer 15. Riding an e-bike 16. A fixie hipster 17. Not sure how to fix a flat, but know who to ask (B4H maybe?) 18. A kid 19. Using your best judgment 20. Wearing a costume 21. Riding an unusual or adaptive bike 22. Considering the safety and comfort of others 23. A year-round commuter 24. Starting to get the hang of it 25. Not feeling comfortable but trying anyway

If you’re new to this… Keep on riding! You’re doing great! It gets better every day! If you have questions or need help with anything, just ask us or ask a friend. Or ask the person riding next to you. Chances are they’ll be happy to help.

— Jonathan Maus: (503) 706-8804, @jonathan_maus on Twitter and jonathan@bikeportland.org

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