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.
The Ride Of Silence is a free ride that asks its cyclists to ride no faster than 12 mph and remain silent during the ride. There is no brochure, no sponsors, no registration fees and no t-shirt. The ride, which is held during Bike Safety 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 those who have been killed or injured.
There are three Australian rides confirmed so far, with possibly Bendigo and Adelaide organising their own RoS events on Saturday 19 May.
See Ride of Silence or Wheels of Justice for more updates & ride contacts.
Australian Ride Contacts
http://www.rideofsilence.org/locations-international.php?i=Australia#Australia
Wheels of Justice
http://www.woj.com.au
Brisbane: Saturday 19th May. Ready for a 10.00am Departure.
We will be leaving at 10.00am so make sure you are there before then please!
Where: City Botanic Gardens (Lower end near river - corner of Edward and Alice st.)
Distance: Approx. 5 - 10km. (Slow Ride approx 13-18km per hour)
Route: King George Square riding the Streets of Brisbane
(proposed route is http://www.bikely.com/maps/bike-path/32530 )
Destination: Parliament House
Sydney: Memorial Ride of Silence
Saturday 19 May 2007 10am from Archibald Fountain, Hyde Park, Sydney
Assemble: Hyde Park 10 am
Departure: (estimate) 10:15 am. Destination: (approx 12 noon) Parliament House, Macquarie Street
Melbourne: Meet: 10am Saturday May 19, 2007 At Federation Square, corner Flinders Street and St Kilda Rd, facing Flinders Street Station.
Destination: Parliament House Steps, Spring Street. There will be an opportunity for riders to speak at the conclusion.
Protocol: Please, no speaking during the ride unless absolutely necessary. Ride maximum two abreast and stop at red lights. Please follow all road rules, no blocking of traffic or pedestrians. There will be Ride of Silence signage and leaflets distributed on the day.