With summer weather slowly trying to take over, Milwaukee's seen its yearly upswing in two-wheeled transportation. But while motorcyclists are lucky enough to have their familiar commercial campaign reminding other motorists to keep an eye out for them, bicyclists don't often get this kind of widespread attention.
In an effort to make a lasting statement about bicycle rights and safety, nine Wisconsin cities will host a Ride of Silence, a solemn ride to pay homage to bicyclists injured or killed in bicycle crashes.
The Ride of Silence began in 2003 in Dallas, Texas and has since spread across 18 countries, taking place on the same day and at the same time worldwide. This year, Wisconsin rides will take place in Appleton, Green Bay, Lake Geneva, Madison, Oshkosh, Racine, Viroqua, Waukesha and Fox Point.
The Fox Point ride will travel a 10-mile route beginning at 7 p.m. in the parking lot of Wheel & Sprocket, 6940 N. Santa Monica Blvd.
To draw special attention to their cause, select bicyclists will attach a three-foot flag to the side of their bikes to illustrate the amount of space automobiles are legally required to leave when passing. The route will also display all-white "ghost bikes" along the route to honor those killed while riding.
Each city's Ride of Silence is free and open to all bicyclists. Proper riding gear is required, which includes a helmet, bright/visible clothes, a bicycle mirror, front light and red flashing rear light. More information about the rides is available online.
Contrary to her natural state of being, Renee Lorenz is a total optimist when it comes to Milwaukee. Since beginning her career with OnMilwaukee.com, her occasional forays into the awesomeness that is the Brew City have turned into an overwhelming desire to discover anything and everything that's new, fun or just ... "different."
Expect her random musings to cover both the new and "new-to-her" aspects of Miltown goings-on, in addition to periodically straying completely off-topic, which usually manifests itself in the form of an obscure movie reference.
