We ride the world.

Part One.

By Black Sheep Cycling

August 8^th, 2018

be a black sheep.

From Como to Colorado, Medellín to Monterrey and London to Jakarta with Wellington in between, we've been truly humbled by the Black Sheep that have turned out to support We Ride the World. And that's just so far … with plenty of rides still to come.

It's been an honour to have you host us and a pleasure to ride with you all. This is the story of our people, an opportunity to unite like-minded cyclists and shine a light on our communities on every continent across the globe. To meet the people who define what it means to Be A Black Sheep.

we ride boulder.

First cab off the rank for We Ride the World was Boulder, Colorado, in partnership with our brand new Authorised Dealer in town Planet Cyclery. We were treated to soaring temperatures, consistent with much of the Northern Hemisphere summer, which meant thirsty bike riders were already salivating over the prospect of a beer back at 4 Noses Brewing before a pedal stroke had even been taken. But riding in Colorado is too good not to get a few ks under the belt before toasting new friends. Then it was back to the brewery for Strawberry Tarts and smiles all round. Cheers, Colorado.

We ride COMO.

You never need an excuse to go to Lake Como, and even more so, to go to see our friends at Sartoria Ciclistica Bike Cafe. One of Black Sheep's newest Authorised Dealers, Sartoria Ciclistica have developed an incredible local Black Sheep community in no time. Whether it is the laid back Italian lifestyle, the gorgeous scenery, or a tendency to have a spontaneous swing party/rave, we just feel completely at home there. Our Thursday evening ride (yup - left at 7.30pm) took us along the lake and up into the mountains that overlook Lake Como and the very famous seaside village of Bellagio. A 45 kilometre loop that has you pinching yourself. We capped off the ride with aperitifs back at Sartoria Ciclistica. Grazie, Como. Grazie!

WE RIDE MEDELLÍN.

Riding is done a little different in Medellín and we we're not referring to the never-ending hills and asphyxiating altitude. But the fact that people turn up in their droves and are duly prepared to while way the rest of the day on a seemingly never-ending social ride. And why wouldn't you. The people are as colourful as they city to which they belong and as friendly as car drivers who pass you by. Coffee stops are rare. But expect vibrant fruit juices, delicious dried guava (locally known as bocadillo) and the luxury of an entire service course following you in support. Never will we want to carry our own spares again! Colombia, we love you. Gracias Bella in Sella.

WE RIDE LONDON.

The weather in London gets a lot of shit, but we think that's a little rough. Maybe it just takes the Aussies to come to town to bring the sun out? Whatever it is, we reckon a good English summer's day is pretty hard to beat. We teamed up with our friends at Sigma Sports in Hampton Wick for a Sunday morning pedal towards the Surrey Hills. A group of 60, out to enjoy the company and have a few laughs. It does have to be noted that as the weather started to push towards 25 degrees there was more than one local overheard suggesting they were in the middle of a 'heatwave'. Let's just put it down to some sunstroke and extend an invitation to come to Australia during January.

we ride monterrey.

The hidden gem that is riding in Mexico. Picturesque mountains and picante fire-flamed sweetcorn as a mid-ride pick-me-up.

WE RIDE WELLINGTON.

Windy Wellington lived up to its reputation – strong gusts greeted our sub tropic faces fresh off the Pacific Ocean. But hey, it's Winter in New Zealand, and that's what winter riding gear is for. Thankfully, the dark clouds and clear skies opened up with top of 10 degrees and the welcome was always warm with smiles from all riders – some new, some old. All there to show off their little town.

The ride took us through twisty roads without a car in sight. Flowing streams and rolling hills with a turnaround point overlooking white cap waves, fit for any windsurfing world champs. A few hours in, with the tummy rumbling and caffeine on the mind, a race back to iRide was on. Witty banter worded in strong accents and local slang made for a memorable day out. Chur Wellington.

WE RIDE JAKARTA.

We have Black Sheep in some far fetched places. But you'd be hard pushed to beat Jakarta's commitment to pedal. Those in reign from the Indonesian capital turned up in abundance to showcase their city and their riding. Well over 100 Black Sheep braving humid early morning conditions to beat the traffic and celebrate being a part of this incredible worldwide ride.