The inside scoop on Cycle to Zero with Asha, David & Trevor

We’re just a few months away from the first Cycle to Zero–a new event from SFAF that builds on the 30+ year history and legacy of AIDS/LifeCycle. We chatted with Asha Martin (events director), David Sierakowski (manager of community engagement), and Trevor Lehmberg (manager of events) to get the inside scoop on the ride.

What are you three looking forward to this year?

David: I’m looking forward to new locations and new routes. We’re going north for the first time, which is pretty exciting. Guerneville is going to be a spectacular backdrop for the Ride–we’ll be up in the redwoods, by the river, near wineries. And Guerneville itself is such a quaint little LGBTQ historical town and artist community, which makes it a special place to set up camp for two nights. 

Asha: I’m looking forward to Day 2 of the ride, because there hasn’t been a “community” day on the ride before. Day 2 will be unique because people may come for just the day to ride, and there are three ride options. There’s also a way to take the day off, for 3-day participants, in order to have time to just be in community and enjoy a day on the river. 

Trevor: I’m the only person who hasn’t experienced AIDS/LifeCycle in the past, and so I’m really looking forward to experiencing the unity and commitment and energy that it’s clear that this community of people is very, very capable of!

What will the connection to HIV and AIDS feel like on Cycle to Zero?

David: Cycle to Zero will include a connection to HIV and AIDS for folks that are riding to honor people they’ve lost, honor people living with HIV, or to fight stigma. Folks can expect to see activations from Positive Pedalers, a moving candlelight vigil at our campsite, and the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence to be present. We’re hosting a day and event for people to dress in red, the color of HIV awareness – as we did for Red Dress Day on AIDS/LifeCycle, and we’ll also have a AIDS Quilt panel-making event as well. 

Cycle to Zero’s Day 2 will be very different than what folks experienced on AIDS/LifeCycle. What can you share about what folks can expect?

Asha: First, friends and family will be welcome! We know that many participants are looking forward to having a day to hang out and in community with other participants but also their friends and family on that day. 

We’ll be camping on Johnson’s beach both night 1 and night 2. The good news is that you don’t have to pack up and leave on the morning of Day 2–Johnson’s beach will be “home” for the Ride.  

For folks who only do the Day 2 ride, we’re going to have a shuttle from San Francisco to Guerneville on Day 2 with bike transport.

There will be lots of options for things to do on Day 2 in addition to riding–park excursions, time on the river, exploring Guerneville. 

What should people know about the route?

David: We’re starting the ride from Fort Baker, which is right over the Golden Gate Bridge. It’s going to be a really great backdrop for folks because the bridge and whole skyline of the city is in front of us. 
It will be a beautiful location for friends and family to watch us ride out from.

Overall the ride is just gorgeous! We’ll be going past reservoirs, through forests, and then coming back along the Pacific coast.

Trevor: This event and route options also creates a pathway of accessibility for folks who may not want to complete a long event. You can join in at any level and participate. If someone wants to come up just for Day 2 and dip their toe in and do the 36 mile route, that’s an option. 

What else should folks know? 

David: I’d say if someone hasn’t registered yet, and they want to get a little taste of group riding with the community, they can come on any of the weekend training rides with Different Spokes Cycling Club. They’re all over the Bay Area, even in Sacramento. 
Check out the Community Calendar for more information, or join the Cycle to Zero Info Session (virtual) on March 12!