Geeks Ride to Encourage Other Geeks to Choose More Bike, Less Car

If you haven’t been paying attention, bike commuting is hot. With the communal conscience focused on environmental footprints, an economic recession and even health, commuting by bike is both eco, frugal and good for you. But in many circles there is still an underlying idea that bike commuting is only for avid cyclists or devoted greenies. Carlos Urreta and Joe Philipson of Real Geeks Ride are out to prove that this is not the case.

On May 20, 2009 the two will ride 3000+ miles across the country, hoping to persuade at least another 1,000 geeks that they too can bike to work instead of driving. The ride is proof that it doesn’t take a hardcore environmentalist to make more sustainable, everyday choices. Being responsible about our environmental footprints is something everyone can, and should do.

Wend caught up with Urreta to learn a little bit more about the ride and what’s behind it.

Wend: I assume that you are an avid bike commuter yourself? When did you start?

Carlos Urreta: In short, No. A main point of our ride is that we are not avid cyclists. We see this as an exceptionally good time for America, and ourselves to change lifestyle. We say, why not grab 1,000 to do the same?

For Joe and I, this ride will show the transition from ourselves as ‘geeks’ to ‘geeks with bikes’. We will be blogging about our introduction into the cycling community and want our target audience to understand the challenges and benefits that come our way. After the ride, we both as can be assumed, will be bike commuters ourselves.

W: Why target geeks? Shouldn’t we all try to do more bike commuting?

CU: Yes! Absolutely! However, for this campaign in specific we are targeting ‘geeks’ for a few key reasons: First, geeks are easier to reach with the social media we have integrated into this ride. A ‘geek’ will be able to relate on a different level when our brightkite accounts are hooked up, and with daily communication from Twitter while on the ride. Second, once a geek enjoys our idea, sharing is quicker and easier while putting less of a strain on us to outright advertise. Lastly, while the stigma may hold true for many, geeks have taken a strong hit as people who spend all day on the computer. Getting more of them active can help curb that idea.

W: There’s been a recent rise in the popularity of bike commuting. Do you think it’s here to stay or is it just a passing trend?

CU: Many signs point to an America in need of a lifestyle change. We are in a recession and people are have started penny pinching. More money than ever is being poured into sustainable ideas. We have seen gas prices at nearly $4.00 and many fear it will be back again. If those don’t get you, we are the most obese nation in the world and ‘healthy living’ is not a sin anymore. The signs are pointing to a more efficient, thoughtful society. I see biking to work as one of the smallest changes that can have a large impact.

W: What do you think cycling’s role (beyond just commuting) can play in the green/sustainability movement?

CU: Referring to energy, I think cycling offers a much needed mentality change to someone who thinks the only way to get from point A to point B is a car. This mentality switch from what people consider ‘just peachy’ and the social norm, to an alternative way of doing things, can be enough to have a great impact in legislation. If sustainable means saving a few dollars, stop paying for your gas when you have the legs to move you.

Besides cycling the whole way, what other steps are you taking to make your journey more sustainable (housing, food, etc.)?

W: What should people do if they want to take part in your efforts? Can people come ride with you?

CU: People can help in many ways, and we always welcome new ideas! Most importantly, if we inspire you, try biking to work! Or, you can help in any of the following ways:

• Stay updated at www.RealGeeksRide.com
• Join the events setup for the city nearest to you
• Host us if you have a nice comfy lawn or spare bed
• Join us on our last leg (Portland OR to Seaside OR) where we will have a networking mixer/party
• Blog about us / Tell a friend
• Donate or sponsor if you would like to help with the cost burden
• Send us love letters (via email)