Each year on the third Wednesday in May, communities around the world come together for the International Ride of Silence to honor those who have been killed or seriously injured while riding on public roadways and to raise awareness about the importance of safely sharing the road. In Fort Collins, Bike Fort Collins once again hosted this meaningful evening of remembrance, reflection, and advocacy for safer streets for all.
The 2026 Ride of Silence took place on Wednesday, May 20, as members of the Fort Collins cycling community joined thousands of riders worldwide in silent solidarity. The annual event served as both a memorial and a call to action—reminding the community that every person deserves to travel safely, whether by bike, foot, wheelchair, or car.
Riders gathered together for the no-drop, slow-paced ride, which welcomed participants of all experience levels. Many attendees wore white as a symbol of remembrance and unity, creating a powerful visual statement as the group traveled quietly through Fort Collins streets in honor of those whose lives have been lost or forever changed by roadway crashes.
Before the ride began, participants reflected on the importance of the evening and the continued need for safer infrastructure and greater awareness for vulnerable road users. As is tradition, the Ride of Silence poem by Mike Murgas was read aloud, setting the tone for the solemn procession:
Tonight we number many but ride as one
In honor of those not with us, friends, mothers, fathers, sisters, sons
With helmets on tight and heads down low,
We ride in silence, cautious and slow
The wheels start spinning in the lead pack
But tonight we ride and no one attacks
The dark sunglasses cover our tears
Remembering those we held so dear
Tonight’s ride is to make others aware
The road is there for all
To those not with us or by our side,
May God be your partner on your final ride
As the ride concluded, participants gathered once more in community—sharing quiet conversations, memories, and reflections on the importance of continuing to advocate for safer streets throughout Fort Collins and beyond. During this closing time together, a few community members spoke about family, friends, and loved ones lost to bicycle crashes, offering deeply personal reminders of why the Ride of Silence continues to matter. Their words brought into focus the human impact behind the ride and the ongoing need for care, awareness, and change on our roadways.
Events like the Ride of Silence serve as a powerful reminder that behind every statistic is a person, a family, and a community forever changed. Bike Fort Collins remains committed to building a safer, more connected transportation network for everyone who uses our streets—whether biking, walking, rolling, or driving.
Through continued education, advocacy, and community engagement, we will keep working toward a future where tragedies like these are no longer a reality. Thank you to everyone who participated in the 2026 Ride of Silence and helped honor those we have lost. Your presence strengthens the call for safer streets for all.
Until next year, please ride safely.