Larry Diffie – Ride Coordinator, Ride Leader, Ride Committee Chair
I got my first trike at 3; parked it behind a pick-up truck that backed up and pancaked it. Got my first 2-wheeler at 5, it was stolen at 7 (I got it back). Got my first 26” Schwinn at 10, sold it the day I got my driver’s license because of a girl (a Pom-Pom Girl!!). In my 50’s, in a race in northern Arizona, I got blown over by a 50+ mph gust of wind and used my bare knee as a brake on the asphalt – I ended up in the hospital to have asphalt debris removed; I couldn’t ride for 8 weeks while healing. I don’t get lost when I’m leading (at least that’s what I tell everyone). I got my 3rd trike in my 60’s, I no longer park behind pick-up trucks. I think my experiences are perfect for leading GEARs Rides – oh yeah, I have a sense of humor, and I really like people! I am looking forward to riding with you!
Karen Goodwin – Ride Leader
For me, each bike ride is a journey—an opportunity to explore and check out what is new on a favorite ride during seasonal changes, find the perfect espresso or simply meditate while pedaling along. I also appreciate the friendly banter on GEARs rides—it’s about having a good time together.
I’m a League of American Bicyclists Certified Instructor and have enjoyed encouraging people to cycle safely since 2006. I believe that cycling is “cycological”. Your cycling ability is limited by what you think you can do and once you get rolling, you can see past those limitations. Pedal on!
Richard Hughes – Ride Leader
Welcome to GEARs and thank you for considering to ride with us.
I have been leading rides in this area for thirteen years which includes all different levels of riders. I am a League (of American Bicyclists) Cycling Instructor since 2009.
Our rides are for enjoyment and are not races. We are about riding and socializing. I hope to see you on the next ride.
Sue Wolling – Ride Leader
I’ve been a member of GEARs since it was created in 1992, and am happy to see the club as strong as it has ever been. I rely on my bike not only for recreational rides, but also for transportation around town, multi-day tours, and overseas travel (pre-Covid). I lead middle-speed rides, preferably with some hills and pretty scenery. You’ll recognize me on my old, relatively heavy touring bike that has packs on it so I can carry a lock and stop for groceries after the ride.
Bicycling really IS my way of life, and I’m always eager to help folks get comfortable riding so they can enjoy it, too.
Tyler Burgess – Ride Leader
GEARs rides have been one of the most fun things to do during the pandemic. After cycle touring in Oregon and Washington last summer, I started riding regularly with the group in the winter. Everyone is fun and encouraging. In the past few years I have done solo cycle touring in Tasmania, Australia, South Africa and the Philippine Islands. While it may not seem exotic to cycle near home, it is certainly beautiful and we often happen by a bakery during our rides. It is really fun.
Garry Swanson – Ride Leader
Ted Conover – Ride Leader
Sam McCamant – Ride Leader
I’ve been a member of GEARs for a couple years now. I lead middle speed rides, typically routes with hills and out of the way destinations. I sometimes lead gravel/mixed surface routes, and am on the lookout for out of the way roads to explore. I believe you don’t need a lightweight, high performance bike to have an enjoyable ride. I have done GEARs rides on road bikes, hybrid bikes, mountain bikes, and PeaceHealth bikes.
Darian Morray – Ride Leader
I started riding regularly with GEARS shortly after I retired from my medical practice in 2013, mostly as a way to avoid retirement “carpet slippers and armchair syndrome”. Since then GEARS has been a wonderful source of companionship, excitement, learning and fitness. I began leading rides in an effort to give something back to the group which has become so important to me. I like riding hills. I like hearing the stories of cycling adventure. I love the companionship of pushing through a challenging ride together. And, I love enjoying a latte and scone with my friends when we’re done! Come join us!!
Bob Lewis – Ride Leader
Gears member since 2019. Lived 66 years in Frankfort, Kentucky. I rode with Bluegrass Cycling Club (BCC) starting in 2011. Was a ride leader for 2 years with that club. I participated in BCC’s Horsey 100 annual ride as a rider and volunteer. In addition to cycling, I enjoy swimming at Echo Hollow pool and cycling in and around Eugene.
My wife and I moved to Eugene full time in 2020. We have two daughters and two grandsons that live in Eugene. Katie is co-owner of J-Tea Tea house and Rebecca is an associate Professor at UO.
Nancy Whyte – Ride Leader
Bicycling, for me, is my happy place. I have been riding since I was 5 and a half. I moved to Eugene in December 2022 from the San Francisco bay area. I believe there have been 7 non raining days since then. I have been bike commuting to work for over 6 years. I have done bicycle tours in France, Switzerland and Italy. Before I moved to Eugene, I mountain biked almost exclusively, but have come to enjoy road riding, thanks to all the friendly GERAS members. I am impressed at the hardiness of GEARS riders.
I can change a flat quickly, have a new Garmin device, and love to talk! I can’t wait to see more of this beautiful area by bike.
Joe Castino – Ride Leader
I have been cycling for 50 years, all on the road. I conservatively estimate that I have logged around 400,000 miles during this time. For GEARs, I primarily lead 16+ rides and enjoy helping riders new to a faster pace feel comfortable and supported. Coalescing getting physically fitter while having fun is my philosophy on the bike. GEARs is comprised of caring and committed people and is a Club of which I am privileged to be a ride leader.