If you've ever driven past a large group of bicyclists pedaling through the city, you've encountered the Granite State Wheelmen (and women), a statewide cycling group.
For two decades, Concord resident Cathy Yeager, who owns her own secretarial service, has been leading those rides, introducing locals to parts of the city and surrounding communities they've never seen before.
The Wheelmen are a mix of expert bikers – who, with bulging calves, look more suited to be on the winding roads in the Tour De France than on the congested streets of Concord – and the most amatuer of novices, who attend the rides for the social aspect and to get a little exercise.
On an average night, between 35 and 50 people show up for the rides that generally take them on back roads in and around Concord. The bikers, which split up into five or six groups based on skill level, typically ride between 10 and 45 miles. The most well-attended rides are on Wednesday nights and Saturday mornings, though groups go out at other times and days, depending on the season. (For more specific information, call 224-0346.)
Last week in the S&W Sports parking lot, riders arrived before the 6 p.m. takeoff, prepping their bikes, discussing routes, and deciding on logistics, like who would lead each group, and who would act as the sweeper to round up the back to make sure no one gets left behind.
Last week was Patty Robichaud's first time out with the group.
“Truth be told,” she said, “I'm a little intimidated.”
Robichaud, who's 67 and lives in Franklin, said she'd just retired and decided to get a new bike. She looked nervous as she wheeled her shiny new toy from her car over to a group to Wheelmen taking a less extreme route.
“Before I came, I told myself I wouldn't be nervous,” Robichaud said. “Today I just said, 'I'm gonna do it,' and here I am.”
With Yeager around, Robichaud was in good hands. Just ride to your skill level, don't push yourself too much, Yeager told her.
Many people said they attended the rides to meet others and make friends.
“Concord is known for having well-attended and enthusiastic rides,” Yeager said. “We usually try to get together and go out for pizza afterward.”
Nancy Normand joined the Wheelman about a year ago. Her first ride out was with Yeager, who described it as one of the “worst rides of my life,” because of cold temperatures and the frequent water stops Normand needed to take.
Now, Yeager said, Normand has come full circle, frequently leading rides. Hers is a true rags to riches story, Yeager said.
“I've learned so much in the year since I first came. It's helpful learning how to ride in traffic,” said Normand, who moved to Concord 4 years ago. “I like riding with a group. You meet some great people.”
For more information about the rides, visit granitestatewheelmen.org or call 224-0346.
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