Congratulations! Marin 2023 Bike Champion: Dave Rhoads

Help us kick off Bike Month by celebrating Marin’s 2023 Bike Champion of the Year! This year, we asked you to nominate someone who inspires others to ride a bike. We’re excited to share Marin’s 2023 Bike Champion with you: Dave Rhoads. Read on to find our recent conversation with Dave.

Getting to know Dave Rhoads – Marin’s 2o23 Bike Champion of the Year

Dave Rhoads is an excellent example of how a person’s passion for bicycling can create a positive impact on the community. Since relocating from San Francisco to Marin in 2019, he has actively volunteered with the Marin County Bicycle Coalition (MCBC) and advocating for safer bicycle infrastructure and for the use of bicycles as a means of transportation. Initially, Dave volunteered at Slow and Say Hello outposts, promoting shared use of Marin’s trails and respect for the environment when recreating.

Dave’s dedication to riding grew, and he credits MCBC’s staff and their expertise for motivating him to be more involved. He now co-chairs the Walk/Bike San Rafael MCBC Local Team, which advocates for safer walking and biking in San Rafael. Its current campaigns include traffic calming in downtown and bicycle parking at the Sunday Main Farmers Market, where people currently have to lock their bikes to stop signs and other informal racks. The group has already made progress by arranging for two valet parking dates at the farmers market on May 21 and June 4. 

Dave is known among his Local Team members for inspiring others to use bicycles for everyday transportation. His enthusiasm for cycling is infectious, and he consistently participates in city meetings and organizes numerous community rides. He, his wife, Amy, and their 15-month-old frequently ride their e-bike instead of using the family car. They bike to daycare, to the ferry, and for most local errands. Their decision promotes a sustainable and healthy lifestyle while also reducing traffic congestion and carbon emissions.

In 2022, Dave participated in Climate Ride’s Northern California Green Fondo with Team MCBC. He raised over $6,000 in support of MCBC’s programs! He is excited to join the team again this year and continue his fundraising efforts.

Dave’s commitment to promoting cycling is admirable and deserving of Marin’s 2023 Bike Champion of the Year. He is an inspiration to those around him and a shining example of how one person can make a difference in the community. If you see Dave around town, be sure to thank him for his hard work and dedication to making Marin a better and safer place for biking.

Dave is an inspiration to us all and we are thrilled that he is Marin’s 2023 Bike Champion of the Year.