- Why Dykes on Bike-cycles and not Dykes on Bicycles?
We’re big fans of the Dykes on Bikes and our name is definitely a play on words. We were also very surprised to learn that they don’t actually have an official group here, just affiliate groups that branched off from the original San Francisco group so our name is part tribute and part an eco-friendly version. You can call us the DOB-C for short. More info on the Dykes on Bikes can be found here.
- When was the DOB-C founded?
The dob-c was founded in 2005 at SUNY New Paltz. Magically all the original members happen to move to Brooklyn and the DOB-C traveled with them.
- Is there a president? And do they need an “intern”?…clinton style
There is pretty much a core group of a few people who run dob-c. We like to adopt a communal decision making method based on the people most dedicated and often who are most familiar with group. Think back to the scene of bill and ted arriving to the future to find out their music brings world peace. We’re kind of like those guys minus the extended shoulder pads and the sunglasses indoors because I hate that…I mean we…we hate that. There is definitely some air guitar strumming though.
As far as interns go, we’re not associated with any credit giving colleges but that never stopped us from finagling resume material. If you’re interested in interning for us (which is pretty much blogging) shoot us an email. We’ll work out the details with you.
- I have an idea for a ride. Who do I speak to about organizing?
We strongly encourage ride suggestions and if you have an idea you can just shoot us an email at dykesonbikecycles@gmail.com. Tell us the proposed date/s and destination. We’ll help you plan the best route and get invites going through our site and our facebook group.
- Do I have to be a dyke to be in the group?
No, you do not have to be a dyke to join or ride with us. We welcome all sex/gender identities under the sun so long as you’re respectful.
- Why call yourselves dykes on bikecycles then?
The group was started by a bunch of queer women. A number of us have been interested in biking and found a lack in queer friendly spaces. We wanted to create a group that would feel welcoming to women and especially queer women. We don’t discourage others from joining but we do make it a priority to be welcoming to the queer ladies.
- What if I don’t have a bike or my bike is busted?
For our regular rides you can always post on our facebook group or facebook invites for specific rides to see if anyone has an extra bike. A few of us have secondary bikes. You can also shoot us an email beforehand and we’ll get the word out. If you have a bike but its busted we may be able to help you with a basic repair. We’re by no means experts on bicycles but we can definitely try our best or point you in the right direction.
For our pride events we also welcome walkers since the parade is slow moving. Walkers usually hand out fun flare we’ve created for the ride or hold our brand spanking new banner.
- Where do dob-c rides take place?
We try to plan rides all over nyc. We, admittedly, don’t know every nook and cranny of all the boroughs so we encourage suggestions and help in planning future rides.
- I don’t live in NYC but want to be in the DOB-C. How does that work?
You can join our facebook group and we definitely encourage you to start a branch of the DOB-C in your city. If you want to be specifically affiliated with us (i.e DOB-C Nashville) shoot us an email and we’ll work through the details with you.
- I want to donate! Where can I send money?
Currently DOB-C gets our money solely from donations and fundraising. If you’d like to send us a donation feel free to send it to our paypal account. There is no set amount and any amount is welcome and very much appreciated.
- I want to help the DOB-C but the economic crisis is kicking my ass.
We’re always looking for creative people to help us in other ways. Some of us will take sexual favors but mostly we can always use someone to help out with the website or blog. We’re also always looking for graphic designers to help with branding ideas (t-shirts, buttons, flyers etc…).
- I think one of you is cute and want to ask said dyke on a bicycle out.
The best way to meet us and thus flirt with us is to attend a ride and/or other related DOB-C functions. You can stare at us longingly from across the way or chat us up with your love of things naked bike-related…facebook stalking is discouraged. Be on the lookout for not so pleased ex/current girlfriends. We also encourage anonymous shout outs on craigslist missed connections.
- Its wintertime and I see no rides planned. Are you guys pussies?
…yes
- Any life advice?
Be excellent to each other.
