A bicycle ride in memory of those injured or killed while cycling on public roadways is set to take place in Grand Rapids on Wednesday, May 21, 2014. A worldwide event, the Ride of Silence is one of many rides scheduled in various locations across the nation and around the globe.

The Ride of Silence was started in Dallas in 2003 by Chris Phelan as a memorial for bicyclist Larry Schwartz. Schwartz was struck and killed by the mirror of a passing school bus on May 4 of that year. The ride quickly blossomed into an annual event, spreading around the nation and across the world, drawing thousands of cyclists to participate.

Motorists are often unaware of cyclists and do not realize that riders have a legal right to share the roadway. The ride, which takes place the third Wednesday of May each year during National Bike Month, aims to raise awareness among motorists and public personnel that cyclists can legally use the roads. It also asks that the roads be shared by everyone, and is a way to honor bicyclists killed or injured on public roadways.

The Grand Rapids Ride of Silence begins at 7:00 in the evening at Riverside Park on Monroe Avenue at the Island Shelter entrance. Riders are asked to arrive no later than 6:30. The ride will begin immediately after the mayor addresses the crowd. Presented by the Greater Grand Rapids Bicycle Coalition, the nine mile ride through downtown Grand Rapids is free, with no registration fees and no sponsors. The rules are simple. Cyclists are required to wear a helmet, are requested to ride no faster than 12 miles per hour, and are asked to follow the rules of the road. They are requested to ride in silence. Lights are not required but are recommended. Arm bands will be provided.

The Ride of Silence is a great way to show respect to those who have lost their lives or been injured in bicycle and vehicle accidents, and raise awareness of cyclists around the world. Please join Grand Rapids as we remember and honor our fellow cyclists.