Atlanta's Southern Bicycle League provides a range of activities and
benefits that help cyclists of all levels to learn and get more enjoyment
out of the sport. Volunteer members organize and lead over 1,000 rides over
the course of the year in the metro Atlanta area. In addition, monthly club
socials allow new and old friends to meet in a casual atmosphere to
exchange stories and participate in a program to help increase their
bicycling knowledge. All members receive the SBL's monthly magazine,
FreeWheelin', which features an extensive calendar of rides in and around
metro Atlanta, along with articles and information on safety, advocacy, touring, and riding
technique.
The SBL also conducts the annual Scott Wilson Century in Fayetteville every
September. The course covers lightly travelled rural terrain and is fairly
flat, so it's a great chance to do your first hundred miler. As with other
SBL rides, shorter options are also available. Scott Wilson, in addition to
being a prolific writer, was a well loved and respected member who served
as club president and editor of FreeWheelin'. He died in 1986 of cancer,
and the ride is now a fundraiser for cycling causes as well as
a tribute to Scott.
In addition to rides, there are also social events held throughout the
year. There is a monthly Friday night get-together in Sandy Springs, which
sometimes includes a special program covering a topic of interest to the
cyclists. Special events include the annual summer picnic, which is
combined with a ride, and the traditional SBL Christmas party in December,
which has grown to include live music and an elaborate dinner.
If cycling is already an important part of your life, or if you're just
getting started and want to learn more, you are encouraged to join the SBL
and get involved. There are rides and activities available for all levels
of cyclists, from beginner to advanced. You'll learn more about cycling,
get a monthly magazine with an extensive listing of rides and tours, have fun, and make
some great friends.
The Benefits of Membership
If you're interested in cycling, the SBL's programs and activities will
benefit you and help you get more out of cycling. Here are some of the
things you'll be able to take advantage of year round:
Eleven monthly issues of FreeWheelin', our monthly magazine, packed with
informative articles on local and national cycling issues, plus our annual
club directory.
Atlanta and North Georgia's most extensive ride calendar
Overnight touring events
Summer evening riding program
Rides specifically for new cyclists
Annual Summer picnic and Christmas party
Advocacy efforts to help preserve your rights to the road and work for
safer bicycling facilities