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About Fems & Thems

Fems & Thems is a cycling group for female and non-binary riders (21+) in Denver, CO. We host rides every month and other events throughout the year! 


Our rides are social, about 10mph, 10-20 miles, and we stop for a break. We meet at Cheesman Park unless otherwise noted. Our goal is simply to have fun; come join us!

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Drone shot of cheesman park with arrow pointing to the Fems and Thems group

What to Bring

  • Water

  • Snacks

  • Tube or sealant

  • Patch kit

  • Multitool

  • Tire levers

  • First aid kit

  • Helmet

  • Sunglasses

  • Lights

  • Layers

  • Gloves

  • Neck warmer

What to Expect

Pace & Distance

These rides are not no-drop rides. We won’t leave you behind on purpose, but you need to be able to keep up. Our pace is about 10-12mph and we usually ride between 10-20 miles each ride. We stop for mechanical issues (flat tire/broken chain/etc) and we will stop at least once for a 15-20 minute break to rehydrate and have a snack. Again, our main goal is to have fun.
 

Navigation & Communication

Regarding communication, we use verbal indicators and hand signals. We ask that our riders do the same. 

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  • We shout "left" or "right" when turning.

  • We yell car/bike/walker UP if there is something to look out for in front of us.

  • We yell car/bike/walker BACK if there is something to look out for behind us.

  • We yell "rolling" or "clear" when going through intersections that we roll through.

  • We yell "slowing" or "stopping" when our speed decreases. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Why no men?

When you change the demographic of a group, you change the energy of the ride. In many spaces, women and non-binary cyclists are a small fraction of the crowd, often as low as 5%. I created this group to flip that script. Here, you aren't the outlier; you are the community. This isn't about exclusion; it’s about the unique empowerment that happens when we ride together.

 

What are your rides like?

The goal isn’t exercise; it’s about seeing the city and connecting with each other. There are 3–5 rides a month, usually between 10 and 20 miles at a steady 10-12mph pace. Every ride starts at the Cheesman Pavilion. If you're looking for a challenge, there are a couple of "centuries" each year, that’s 100 miles in one day and those are open to all genders.

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What if I can’t keep up?

Fems and Thems rides move at a steady pace. If you’re worried about the speed or getting separated, I’d highly recommend bringing a ride buddy! Having a friend to stick with ensures you always have someone by your side to navigate back or finish the route together. It’s the best way to build your confidence while staying connected.

 

 Do I need a fancy bike to join?

Absolutely not. You’ll see everything from carbon fiber road bikes to vintage cruisers and commuter bikes on our rides. As long as your bike is in safe, working condition, you are welcome. We’re about the person on the seat, not the price of the frame.

 

I’m nervous about riding in city traffic. Is this group for me?

 Yes! One of the best ways to gain confidence on city streets is riding in a pack. Fems and Thems routes prioritize bike lanes and trails, and riding together makes us much more visible to drivers. It’s the perfect way to learn the best "hidden" bike-friendly paths in Denver.

 

Do the rides cost anything?

The Fems and Thems social rides are completely free. Occasionally, the ride may end at a coffee shop or brewery, but purchasing anything is always optional.

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