Cycling Without Age (CWA) is the new program at Bike SLO County (formerly the Bicycle Coalition). CWA is a one-of-a-kind program that provides a much-needed reach into the senior community by offering slow-paced, volunteer-piloted trishaw rides for home or senior-facility bound older adults. It is an international phenomenon in 40 countries, with over 250 chapters in the US, and now SLO County. This program simultaneously reduces social isolation and improves quality of life for seniors who cannot cycle for themselves, encouraging community engagement, sharing stories and getting outside.
Bike SLO County (BSLOC) was established in 2001 and has many programs serving all ages and cycling abilities. The mission of BSLOC is to inspire, educate, advocate, and work to build a safe, healthy, and connected community through bicycling. The organization serves children by teaching introductory cycling and educates on safe routes to school, provides bicycles to adults in need, offers free maintenance assistance/tools at the Bike Kitchen, and even bike valet services at crowded downtown events. Cycling Without Age fits right in at BSLOC, as the program enables intergenerational connections and encourages outdoor activity for seniors who want to feel the wind in their hair.
During sessions, volunteer pilots pedal passengers on protected lanes, paths or quiet streets to desirable locations around town, focusing on neighborhoods, parks, downtown SLO and the Cal Poly campus. These magical rides last 30-45 minutes, providing ample time for volunteers and seniors to relate with one another and the outside world.
Cycling Without Age has already taken over 50 passengers for rides since September 2024, and more facilities are joining the program. UUSLO’s Community Outreach Offering will provide program support, focusing on aspirations to purchase another trishaw or possibly a trailer (to help broaden program outreach to serve Achievement House and senior facilities throughout the county).
BSLOC is so grateful for UUSLO’s generosity and interest in the Cycling Without Age program!
