Our Story

Ride Stephenville is a student-led, semester-long initiative designed by Tarleton State University graduate students that empowers new cyclists by providing safety education, local route guidance, and community engagement opportunities. 

The project will create a free, user-friendly online platform to help students navigate to Tarleton State University and other popular destinations in Stephenville, while also promoting safe road-sharing between drivers and pedestrians. By offering practical resources, beginner guidance, and community connections, the project promotes a safer and more inclusive cycling environment.

Objectives

1. Provides accessible educational resources on cycling safety, techniques, and beginner guidance.

2. Promote local cycling routes and opportunities for skill development, including trails, loops, and gravel routes.

3. Encourage community engagement through local cycling clubs, events, and group rides.

4. Educate non-cyclists about road sharing and cyclist awareness to foster a safer community environment.

5. Develop a free, user-friendly online platform accessible to all stakeholders.

Project Scope

Educational Resources:

• Cycling Basics: Essential gear, safety protocols, and maintenance tips.

• Local Cycling Data: Health benefits, environmental impact, and statistics on cycling.

• Beginner Guides: Step-by-step instructions on choosing a bike, basic repairs, and local traffic laws.

Local Cycling Routes:

• Routes to Tarleton State University: Explore different ways to get to campus and easily reach popular destinations around town. 

• Bosque River Trail: 8,000-foot trail suitable for beginners with scenic views.

• City Park Loop: 1-mile loop ideal for skill development.

• Gravel Routes: Country bike routes (20–100 miles) via Ride GRVL.

Community Engagement:

• Local Cycling Rides: Information on local bike rides such as Goat Neck, Peach Pedal, and other local events.

• Group Rides: Find and create regular meetups to foster camaraderie and skill-sharing. 

• Online Platforms: Forums and social media groups, such as Strava, for cyclists to connect. 

Community Awareness & Road Sharing:

• Education for drivers and pedestrians on safely sharing roads with cyclists.

• Resources include infographics, short instructional videos, downloadable PDFs, and links to Texas Bike Laws (TxDOT Bicycle Safety).

Platform:

• The website will be created using Google Sites, a free and collaborative website-building tool.