2026 GEARs Survey Results

For the last few years, the GEARs Board has conducted an annual survey to better understand how members and non members feel about the general operations of the club and where we can improve. We aim to keep many of the questions similar each year so we can identify trends in responses and changes in demographics over time. Depending on current priorities or new initiatives, we may also introduce a few new questions, but several core questions remain consistent from year to year.

The results shared in this report include a combination of graphs and summaries of responses provided by participants.

GEARs currently has approximately 230 members, and 68 members participated in this year’s survey. This represents roughly 30% of the club’s membership and provides a meaningful snapshot of member perspectives and experiences.

Top Survey Insights

Several clear themes emerged from the responses.

Community is one of GEARs’ greatest strengths
Twenty four respondents specifically mentioned the welcoming and friendly culture of the club as something they value.

The ride schedule remains the heart of the club
Nineteen respondents highlighted the consistency and variety of weekly rides.

Pace consistency matters
Eighteen respondents mentioned that ride pace occasionally exceeds the stated category.

Interest in expanding ride opportunities
Thirteen respondents mentioned interest in more gravel rides and eleven suggested additional beginner friendly rides.

Social connection is important
Nine respondents expressed interest in more social opportunities connected to rides.

Who Responded

Most respondents identified as current GEARs members, though a small number of former members and non members also participated.

The majority of survey respondents were between the ages of 60 and 79, with smaller groups represented in the 30–49 and 50–59 age ranges. A few respondents were in their 20s.

Many respondents have been involved with GEARs for several years. A large portion indicated they have participated in the club for five years or more, while others reported being newer to the club within the past one to three years.

When asked about participation, many respondents indicated they ride with GEARs multiple times per month or multiple times per week. Others participate occasionally or volunteer at club events.

What GEARs Does Well

One of the strongest themes throughout the survey was appreciation for the welcoming and supportive culture of GEARs.

Among the written responses:

24 respondents mentioned the welcoming atmosphere
19 respondents highlighted the consistency of rides
15 respondents mentioned supportive ride leaders
12 respondents said they joined GEARs to meet other cyclists

Members frequently mentioned:

Welcoming and friendly riders
Supportive ride leaders
A strong sense of community
Well organized rides
Opportunities to meet other cyclists

Many respondents shared that they originally joined GEARs because they wanted to ride with others, meet people in the cycling community, and explore new routes in the area.

“GEARs rides are friendly and welcoming. It’s one of the easiest ways to meet other cyclists.”

The club’s ride schedule and route list continues to be one of the most valued aspects of membership.

Ride Pace Feedback

Most respondents indicated that the current pace categories generally work for them. However, pace consistency was the most common area where riders suggested improvement.

From the written responses:

18 respondents mentioned rides exceeding the advertised pace
10 respondents suggested narrowing some pace ranges
8 respondents suggested adding additional pace categories
7 respondents requested more beginner friendly rides

Some riders noted that faster riders join slower groups, which can unintentionally increase the overall pace of the ride.

“The pace categories are helpful, but it would be nice if rides stayed closer to the advertised pace.”

Overall, the feedback highlights the importance of predictable pacing so riders feel comfortable choosing rides that match their ability and expectations.

Interest in Additional Rides

Several respondents expressed interest in expanding ride offerings.

Suggestions included:

13 respondents mentioned interest in more gravel rides
11 respondents suggested additional beginner friendly rides
9 respondents requested destination rides outside Eugene
6 respondents mentioned overnight or multi day rides
5 respondents requested more route variety

“I would love to see more gravel and adventure style rides.”

Some riders also mentioned that certain rides repeat the same routes frequently and would enjoy seeing additional route options.

The board is prioritizing a revamp of pace categories and website language to reduce confusion and set clearer expectations. Updates will be shared at the Annual Ride Leaders Meeting, along with plans to encourage broader participation in ride leadership to expand ride offerings.

Social Opportunities

In addition to rides, several respondents expressed interest in more social opportunities within the club.

From the responses:

9 respondents mentioned post ride coffee or meals
6 respondents suggested social gatherings off the bike
5 respondents expressed interest in more opportunities to meet other members

These responses reinforce that community connection remains one of the most important aspects of GEARs.

“The social side of cycling is just as important as the riding.”

Barriers to Participation

Respondents also shared a few factors that sometimes make it difficult to attend rides.

The most commonly mentioned barriers included:

Work schedules that conflict with weekday morning rides
Ride start times that may not work for everyone
Distance to ride start locations
Fitness level or confidence for joining group rides

Six respondents specifically mentioned that beginner friendly rides or skills based rides could help newer riders feel more comfortable getting involved.

Communication and Technology

Several respondents suggested improvements to communication and online resources.

Suggestions included:

Updating the club website
Expanding social media presence
Providing more detailed ride descriptions
Improving visibility of rides and programs

Eight respondents specifically mentioned improving website usability or ride information.

Club Priorities

When asked about GEARs’ focus areas, respondents generally felt the club performs well in the following areas:

Recreation through club rides
Education and programs
Advocacy for cyclists

Many respondents emphasized that the club’s welcoming ride culture and strong volunteer community are among its greatest strengths.

Looking Ahead

The feedback gathered through this survey provides helpful guidance for the future of GEARs. Several opportunities emerged from the responses, including:

Improving pace clarity and consistency on rides
Expanding beginner friendly riding opportunities
Offering additional gravel and destination rides
Creating more social opportunities for members
Continuing to strengthen communication and outreach

Help Shape the Future of GEARs

GEARs is a volunteer run organization, and the success of our rides and programs depends on members who are willing to help lead and support club activities.

Many of the ideas shared in this survey, such as additional rides, new programs, and more social opportunities, are things we would love to offer. Making these ideas happen requires volunteers who are interested in helping lead rides, organize events, or support club initiatives.

If you are interested in helping bring some of these ideas to life, we would love to hear from you. Please reach out and get involved.

Kayna Robison

kayna@eugenegears.org

541-517-2983

Thank You

Thank you to everyone who took the time to participate in the survey and share feedback. Your input helps guide the future of GEARs and ensures the club continues to support a welcoming and vibrant cycling community.

Together we can continue building a strong cycling community in the greater Eugene area.

2024 Survey Results
2025 Survey Results

What responders would like to see more of from GEARS?