The National Bicycle Dealer Association (NBDA) gave me another opportunity to be a guest host on their Bicycle Retailer Radio podcast. The organization continues to allow me to pick and choose my topics. The latest podcast was an interview with Monica Garrison, Black Girls Do Bike (BGDB) founder, and Chicago chapter Shero Celeste Adams.
Until recently, people of color, especially women, rarely saw themselves reflected in cycling industry ads or out riding with local clubs. But with the creation of BGDB, Monica has created a global community of riders, and Sheros (group leaders) like Celeste Adams are there to engage members and grow local clubs.
The cycling industry is moving at a snail’s pace and has started using black and brown models in some of its ads. But there’s still a ways to go. Besides ads, they need to consider all riders when designing gear. For example, helmets are challenging to fit someone with natural hair, an afro, or dreadlocks. Honestly, it shouldn’t be that hard to develop a helmet for this market.
Take a listen as I talk to Monica and Celeste about various topics, including BGDB’s recent partnership with Zwift.
https://nbda.com/fellowship-fitness-freedom-black-girls-do-bike/
Sheri Rosenbaum regularly contributes articles and reviews products for RBR. She’s an avid recreational roadie who lives in the Chicago area and a major advocate for women’s cycling, serving on the board of directors and volunteering with the Dare2tri Paratriathlon Club. Click to read Sheri’s full bio or visit her web site sunflowersandpedals.com.
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