Inspiring cycling stories – Together We Ride
Wayne Francis, founder of Together We Ride, shares why he set up the cycling club that aims to make cycling more attractive and accessible for everyone.
January 23, 2025
Together We Ride (TWR) is a vibrant Cycling Affinity Club focused on enhancing community health and wellbeing through cycling initiatives. We strive to make cycling more attractive and accessible for everyone, especially marginalised groups, acknowledging its significant benefits for commuting, recreation, and overall physical and mental health.
Cycling for wellbeing
During the 2020 lockdown, I turned to cycling to cope with stress and confinement. Struggling both mentally and physically, I found significant improvements in my wellbeing after several weeks of regular cycling. This personal transformation inspired me to help others facing similar challenges, leading to the founding of Together We Ride CIC.
We began by organising group rides and creating a welcoming space for everyone to enjoy cycling together. It was during these rides that we noticed the sport’s lack of diversity, which was surprising given its numerous benefits. We realised that many marginalised groups were not represented and set out to change this by fostering an inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome.
Our journey
Since our inception, TWR has been committed to enhancing community health through cycling. We have organised numerous bike rides, events, cycling skills courses, and distributed cycling maps covering London and the surrounding areas. Our initiatives aim to encourage more people to take up cycling and enjoy its benefits.
Over the past four years, we have seen a surge in new cyclists, many of whom are people of colour, women, and other underrepresented groups. This growth has helped TWR become one of London’s largest and most diverse community cycling groups. We are proud to have created a space where people from all backgrounds can come together, enjoy cycling, and improve their health.
“Struggling both mentally and physically, I found significant improvements in my wellbeing after several weeks of regular cycling”
Wayne Francis, Together We Ride founder
What it means for participants to be involved – case studies
Two members of Together We Ride explain what being part of the club has meant for them.
A life-changing experience
“I joined Together We Ride (TWR) during the Covid pandemic to stay active during lockdown, and it has profoundly impacted my life. Through TWR, I’ve gained essential riding skills and basic bike maintenance knowledge. The club offers a diverse range of rides for all ages and abilities, fostering an inclusive environment.
“The friendships I’ve formed with fellow cyclists have enriched my life, and the support from club professionals has inspired me to explore new interests. The variety of social and cycling events creates a community that feels like family.”
“One of my proudest achievements was completing my first solo cycling trip to Amsterdam—a dream made possible by the encouragement and inspiration from TWR. This community has been incredibly motivating.
“I actively support TWR and encourage friends and family to join, believing they’ll benefit as much as I have. I also commend our dedicated management team and volunteer leaders for their commitment to our club. Their efforts are truly inspiring.”
“The friendships I’ve formed with fellow cyclists have enriched my life, and the support from club professionals has inspired me to explore new interests. The variety of social and cycling events creates a community that feels like family.”
Together We Ride member
Finding health and community through cycling
“Struggling with high blood pressure and a lack of motivation, I joined the TWR cycling club, hoping to make a positive change in my life. High blood pressure is common among Afro-Caribbeans due to genetic factors, and it can lead to serious health issues if not managed properly.
“Joining TWR was transformative, providing camaraderie and support from fellow cyclists that motivated me to commit to regular rides. The club’s routes progressed from 20-mile rides in Regents Park to challenging 60-mile routes to places like Windsor. The physical activity brought noticeable improvements in fitness and overall well-being, resulting in the stabilisation of my blood pressure and a reduction in medication.
Cycling became a passion, offering fitness, adventure, and the joy of pushing personal limits. The supportive TWR community, led by a team of dedicated individuals, played a significant role in my journey. I encourage others to find a physical activity they love, as it can lead to improved health and a sense of community.”
“Cycling became a passion, offering fitness, adventure, and the joy of pushing personal limits. The supportive TWR community, led by a team of dedicated individuals, played a significant role in my journey. I encourage others to find a physical activity they love, as it can lead to improved health and a sense of community.”
Together We Ride member
What’s next?
As TWR turns five years old, we are proud to announce that TWR will be official partners with SRAM in 2025, joining the SRAM Community Program. This partnership marks a significant milestone for TWR and our mission to encourage more people to live healthy, active lifestyles through cycling. Being part of the SRAM Community Program not only elevates our standing in the global cycling community but also provides us with incredible opportunities for growth and collaboration.
Goals for the future
Looking ahead, TWR aims to expand our reach and impact. We plan to launch more community engagement programs and collaborate with local/national organisations, Our goal is to make cycling a mainstream mode of transport and a popular recreational activity for everyone.
Find out more about Together We Ride on their website. They also have a podcast, Together Wheel Talk, which is available on YouTube, Spotify, Amazon and other podcast platforms.
