City Cyclery hosts third annual Tweed Ride

By: Liam Higgins

Cyclists dressed in finery participate in Windsor’s third annual Tweed Ride on Oct. 19.

Hosted by City Cyclery, the Windsor Tweed Ride is a group bicycle ride through Windsor in which the cyclists have the option to dress in classic tweed or any smart-looking outfit from a classic era. Tweed refers to a rough-surfaced woolen cloth, typically mixed of colours with patch-like features. During the Tweed Ride, participants are able to take in some of the historical landmarks significant to Windsor’s past along the bike route.

City Cyclery co-owner Stephen Hargreaves said he and co-owner Chris Holt became obsessed with the idea after they were introduced to the Tweed Run in England.

“The event is officially presented by City Cyclery,” said Hargreaves. “Though prizes and freebies are donated by some of our favourite local shops, restaurants, and artisans.”

The first Tweed Ride was held Oct. 7, 2012 and the second  during the spring of 2013. The bike ride consisted of a set path that started at Willistead Manor, exploring South Walkerville with a stop at the Craft Beer Festival in Walkerville and continuing to follow the riverfront trail downtown to visit Rino’s Kitchen and Ale House. After visiting Rino’s Kitchen and Ale House, the ride ended at The Willistead Restaurant.

Hargreaves aimed to have a large group of people participating and made the event cost as “pay-what-you-can.”

“Pay-what-you-can allows those who may be tight financially to participate,” said Hargreaves. “And others who are feeling philanthropic to give generously.”

The money raised during the Tweed Ride from ticket sales and additional prizes from Detroit Bicycles goes towards “The Friends of Willistead,” for the maintenance and restoration of the manor grounds.

In past Tweed Rides, Hargreaves said people from all over have participated.

“All ages and backgrounds join in from all over,” said Hargreaves. “Places including London, Chatham, around Essex County and quite a few from Detroit.”

Tweed Ride participant Alain Rocha said when he stumbled upon a book called “Cycle Style,” he became informed with London, England’s Tweed Ride. When he found out Windsor had a Tweed Ride, Rocha said he had to go.

“I saw a bunch of photos from the Tweed Ride in London, England and I was fascinated by the idea,” said Rocha.

Rocha, who is a first time participant of the Tweed Ride, plans to participate in the future Tweed Rides held by City Cyclery.

“I was happy to see so many people come out despite the weather,” said Rocha. “I hope it’s sunny for next year’s Tweed Ride.”

Hargreaves said while City Cyclery aims to have their annual Tweed Ride every Fall and Spring, they will plan to have at least one a year. Although vintage and vintage-inspired bikes are recommended, all bikes are welcome to join the event.