Blog

Riding Together: The Heartbeat of Ridgefield's Cycling Community

At Ridgefield Bicycle Company, we're more than just a bike shop—we're the proud home and founding partner of the Ridgefield Bicycle Club (RBC). Established in 2011 by our very own Jacqui Dowd, RBC has blossomed into a dynamic, nonprofit organization boasting over 400 members from Ridgefield and surrounding towns.

A Club for Every Rider

Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or just starting out, RBC offers something for everyone:

• Road Rides – regular rides for all levels, almost every day of the week

• Gravel and Mountain Rides – local dirt and trail adventures led by experienced ride leaders (led by our partners at FCNEMBA)

• Thirsty Thursday Rides – our signature weekly social ride, ending with food, drinks, and good company

• Destination Rides – curated monthly rides showcasing beautiful routes near and far

• Clinics and Events – from flat tire workshops to race-day prep and more

New Leadership, Shared Passion

With a new board at the helm, the Ridgefield Bicycle Club continues to thrive, blending the energy and ideas of new members with the deep experience and heart of longtime riders. It’s a great moment in the club’s evolution: one that honors its roots while embracing fresh perspectives.

At the center of this new chapter is JD Beebe, the club’s new president. JD brings a lifelong passion for cycling that began with his father’s gentle, meandering rides through Ridgefield and greater Connecticut. His story — from being nicknamed “Bicycle Boy” in college to reconnecting with his hometown community through RBC — is a perfect reflection of what the club is all about.

“In this club, I’ve met so many amazing people at different stages of life, all united over this shared love of riding,” JD says. “I’m so incredibly thankful for the connections and friendships this club makes possible.”

Whether you’re new to town or have been riding with us for years, RBC is a place where friendships form, bikes bring people together, and every ride is a chance to rediscover the joy of cycling.

Built on Community

The roots of RBC run deep — the club began right here at the shop when Jacqui Dowd brought together a few riders with a shared passion and big vision. Since then, RBC has grown into a welcoming, fun, and safety-focused group that reflects everything we love about cycling and community.

As Jacqui once said, “The true essence of this club is the people who make it a welcoming and seriously fun culture to be a part of while honoring our mission of safety, respect, and responsibility.”

Powered by Ridgefield Bicycle Co.

RBC and RBCo remain deeply connected, we’re proud to support the club with expert bike fittings, service, gear, and a space that always has room for another rider. Whether you’re training for an event, chasing a KOM, or just riding for joy, we’re here to help.

Join the Ride

Ready to get involved? Visit ridgefieldbicycleclub.org to learn more about the rides, events, and how to join. See you out there!

Why Everyone’s Talking About E-Bikes — And Why You’ll Love Them Too

There’s a reason e-bikes are booming — they’re fun, fast, and accessible. Whether you’re new to riding, recovering from an injury, or just want to keep up with your faster friends, an e-bike might be the perfect ride for you.

At Ridgefield Bicycle Co., we carry e-bikes from Specialized, Cannondale, and Electra — three of the most trusted names in cycling. These are not your average online e-bikes. They’re built with the same high-quality frames, components, and engineering as the best traditional bikes, with smooth, reliable motor assist that adds a whole new level of freedom and confidence.

E-Bikes = The Great Equalizer

One of the most exciting parts of the e-bike revolution? Everyone can ride together.

• Got a spouse, sibling, or riding buddy who’s faster than you? Ride side by side.

• Coming back from an injury? Ride longer and stronger without overdoing it.

• Starting to feel your age on the climbs? Let the motor help — and keep the smile.

E-bikes are the great equalizer, making it easier for riders of different fitness levels or abilities to share in the same fun and adventure.

Take It to the Trails

Most mountain bike trails now welcome e-bikes — including Vermont’s world-famous Kingdom Trails, one of our favorite destinations.
That means more access, more trail time, and more fun. And with electric-assist mountain bikes from Specialized and Cannondale, you’ll climb faster, ride longer, and explore more terrain than ever before.

Have More Fun!

Let’s be honest: for many riders, e-bikes are simply more fun.
Compared to a basic entry-level bike, you’ll:

• Climb hills with ease

• Go farther on every ride

• Arrive without feeling exhausted

• Still get plenty of exercise, just with a boost

And with models from Electra, you can cruise in comfort and style, turning every ride into an adventure — whether it’s to the café, the farmer’s market, or just around town.

E-Bikes Are Affordable, Too

High-quality e-bikes are more affordable than ever. With options starting around the cost of a decent laptop, you're investing in years of outdoor fun, better fitness, and more connection with the people and places around you. And when you consider how much riding they encourage, e-bikes offer some of the best value per mile in cycling.

Built & Backed by RBCo

When you buy from Ridgefield Bicycle Co., your e-bike is professionally built, tested, and backed by our full-service repair shop and expert mechanics. We don’t just hand you a box — we make sure your ride is ready to roll, and we’re here to support you for every mile ahead.

Come take one for a spin!
Stop by the shop and test ride an e-bike from Specialized, Cannondale, or Electra. It might just be the most fun you’ve had on two wheels.