Gravel is the fastest growing sector of cycling around the world…
…but sadly, in the US and abroad, the majority of gravel cycling takes place in spaces that historically (and currently) have been hostile towards queer and trans people, especially trans people of color. Queer Gravel is a group of queer and trans folks, as well as steadfast accomplices, who are committed to making off-road cycling safe, welcoming, and inclusive for all people.
Through meetups, group rides, clinics, mutual aid, and advocacy, we are shifting the landscape of the cycling world.
Our Mission:
Our mission is to increase trans and queer participation in gravel cycling by creating spaces where trans, nonbinary, and gender expansive people are centered, celebrated, cared for. We envision a new kind of cycling community that is accessible, enriching, and supportive for everyone who has been pushed to the edges by the cycling industry. We work with individual athletes and advocates, communities, and brands to not only help queer and trans individuals over come the barriers to cycling, but to remove those barriers all-together. We use the tools of community building, advocacy, and mutual aid to accomplish our goals.
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Small connections can make a big difference. Through meetups, group rides, clinic, and general hang outs we hope to build a network of educated and engaged cyclists who are working together to change the face of cycling.
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By working directly with brands and events, we are creating spaces for more participation as well as lifting the voices of trans and nonbinary athletes to share their experiences. Using these platforms we can take our fight beyond just the cycling world and into the world of policy and infrastructure, to create lasting and meaningful change across the globe.
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The most effective actions are often the most direct. We hope to use this space as a conduit for the redistribution of assets to those who might otherwise not have access to them. We are currently fleshing out programs to distribute donated technical clothing and cycling related equipment to trans and nonbinary cyclists across the US. We hope to expand this program around the world.
Why Gravel?
Access to the outdoors is a mental health intervention. Being in nature has a profound impact on a person’s sense of well-being. Cycling is second only to team sports in the positive effect it has on an individual’s feelings of happiness. Trans and queer people are currently under an unprecedented attack in state legislatures all over the US, and trans participation in sport has been a hotly debated topic all over the world. Having one’s humanity questioned and threatened on a daily basis in both the public and private spheres has a profoundly negative impact on the mental health of trans and queer people. Riding a bike with friends in nature is a surefire way to restore your faith in humanity and rekindle your love for your own life. Everyone deserves that opportunity.
Meet the Team
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Abi Robins
FOUNDER
Well, the team is just me right now, but I’m hoping that’s not true for long. I’m an author, teacher, and coach who found their career in helping people change their lives. I love riding gravel and plan to leverage my skillset to make a positive impact in the cycling industry.