Lead with Passion. Ride with Purpose

Shop Rides exist because of the people who show up to lead them. Our Ride Leaders are the heartbeat of this program — local riders who know the trails, care about the community, and want to share that with others.

If guiding and inspiring fellow riders sparks something in you, this is your chance to make an impact. Whether you've led group rides before or you're ready to step into that role for the first time, we value what you bring — your experience, your energy, and your love for this sport.

What Ride Leaders Do

Being a Ride Leader is part tour guide, part trail ambassador, part calm-in-a-crisis. You're the one who sets the tone for the evening — and that matters more than you might think.

  • Before the Ride

    • Coordinate with co-leads and confirm the route
    • Post ride details in the community (trailhead, start time, what to expect)
    • Check conditions and adjust plans if needed

  • During the Ride

    • Welcome riders and run a quick safety/gear check
    • Set the pace for your group (Thrill, Chill, Gravel, or Muddbunnies)
    • Regroup at junctions — nobody gets left behind
    • Handle trailside issues calmly (mechanicals, route changes, tired riders)
    • Keep the vibe positive and inclusive

  • After the Ride

    • Make sure everyone's accounted for and good to roll home
    • Share a quick recap or photos in the community
    • Flag any issues or feedback to the team

Training

All Ride Leaders complete a short training program before the season kicks off. It's hands-on, practical, and designed to set you up for success — not bury you in theory.

  • Session 1: Foundations & Group Management

    Evening classroom session at the shop

    We cover the role and expectations, group communication, trail etiquette, and safety fundamentals. You'll leave with a clear picture of what good leadership looks like.

  • Session 2: On-Trail Scenarios & Training

    Morning field training on the trails

    Group spacing and pacing, incident response, conflict management, and real-world leadership scenarios. We put you in situations and work through them together.

  • Session 3: Mentorship & Graduation Ride

    Evening co-led ride

    You'll co-lead a ride with an experienced leader, putting everything into practice. Navigation, route flow, group management — this is where it all comes together. Consider it your graduation.

Perks

We don't take your time for granted. Ride Leaders receive meaningful perks that reflect the value you bring to this community.

  • Shop Credit: Seasonal credit to keep your bike dialed — use it toward service, parts, or accessories.
  • Exclusive Pricing: Special rates on parts, gear, tires, clothing, and upgrades. We'll share the details when we talk.
  • Ride Leader Jersey: Identify yourself on the trail and represent the crew.
  • Priority Event Access: First in line for Essential Cycles clinics, camps, and special events.
  • Demo Bike Access: Borrow demo bikes when available — try before you buy.

Your Impact

This isn't just about showing people where to ride. It's about shaping experiences that keep people coming back — to the trails, to the community, and to the sport.

  • Guide safely and responsibly: Everyone finishes the ride with a smile — and in one piece.
  • Lead by example: Show that responsible riding and having fun aren't mutually exclusive.
  • Be part of rider development: Help people grow in confidence and skill, even if you're not formally coaching.
  • Build something that lasts: The community you help create will outlast any single ride.

The Commitment

We're not asking for your whole summer — just a consistent presence that riders can count on.

  • Complete all three training sessions (late April)
  • Lead or co-lead 6 rides over the season (May through August)
  • Choose your own dates — sign up for rides that fit your schedule
  • Uphold Essential Cycles values — inclusive, welcoming, safe, and supportive

That's it. Show up prepared, bring good energy, and help us build something worth being part of.

Sound Like You?

Ride Leader positions are by invitation, but we're always looking for the right people. If this resonates, we want to hear from you.

Tell us a bit about yourself — your riding background, which trails you know best, what group you'd be excited to lead (Thrill, Chill, Gravel, Muddbunnies), and why you'd be a great fit.

We review interest on a rolling basis and reach out to set up a conversation. If the timing isn't right this season, we'll keep you on our radar for the next.

Express Interest