How many bike clubs do you know in which the "in" group rides 10 - 12 mph and happily answers to the nickname "Turtles?" In Folks on Spokes, a club of about 250 members in the south suburbs of  Chicago, the group which "stops to smell the roses" is the fastest growing segment of the club -- both because they are friendly and fun-loving and because their slower pace welcomes new riders.

Folks on Spokes has always tried to encourage new riders by having the "ride leader" ride at the back of the group --instead of the front, in order to stay with the slowest person. However, we've found that people who voluntarily ride at a slower pace are a much better source of support and encouragement to new riders than faster riders who take their turn riding at the back. Craig Oberman, Turtle leader and co-founder, explained, "I'm a slow rider, not a new rider -- being a Turtle is a state of mind."

The welcoming attitude and comfortable pace of the Turtles, as well as learning rides and many social events have helped Folks on Spokes attract a lot of new riders -- many of whom enjoy a leisurely pace.

Regularly scheduled rides begin in early May and run through October.

Folks on Spokes also helps members learn to ride safely and confidently on roads. Several club members are trained as League of American Bicycists Cycling Instructors, and at least one LAB Traffic Cycling course is offered for members each year.

The LAB Traffic Cycling course helps people to refine and refresh their cycling skills; to ride a bike confidently and safely for transportation, fitness, and recreation, in traffic and on trails. It covers bicycle safety checks, fixing flats, essential on-bike handling skills, traffic cycling skills, and crash avoidance techniques.