Frequently Asked Questions


What is Slow Roll?

A global network of community bicycle rides originally started in Detroit. Slow Roll is a free and inclusive Monday night bike ride for all ages and skill levels. All bicycle types are welcome except gas-guzzlers and training wheels. Participants range in age from 4 to 96. Every ride returns for an after-party with food, drinks, music, and fellowship.

How long and fast are the rides?

Guided by more than 100 trained cyclists, each Slow Roll is around 10 miles round-trip, with at least two stops, aka “mass-ups,” to get everyone back together while learning from community stakeholders in the immediate area about current events and issues. The front of the ride sets a slow pace of 8-10MPH for kids and joyriders; the paces gets faster toward the back of the pack as the mass of cyclists stretches out and catches up like an accordion.

So, it’s more than just a bike ride?

Yes! Our mission is to provide inclusive community experiences that connect people, places, and causes by bicycle.

When is the following Slow Roll, and is it really free?

Slow Roll Buffalo will always be accessible and inclusive for all. See our Schedule page for upcoming ride dates and locations. You can also join our Facebook Group, follow us on Instagram or Twitter, or sign up for our weekly email to get updated ride info.

So, it’s more than just a bike ride?

Yes! Our mission is to provide inclusive community experiences that connect people, places, and causes by bicycle.

Is Slow Roll Buffalo a nonprofit organization?

Yes. Slow Roll Buffalo is a New York State registered 501c3 and IRS charitable organization.

Where do you register, and what does it cost?

Slow Roll Buffalo is free and open to all, and it always will be. One-time annual registration can be done online here.

What do I need to bring?

You need just a working bike and a positive attitude. It is also best to come prepared with a helmet, extra tube, water, and lights for your bicycle.

Are helmets required?

In New York State, all bicyclists under the age of 14 years old are required to wear safety-certified bicycle helmets when they are operators or passengers on bicycles (Sec. 1238(5))

Where do I park?

Slow Roll Buffalo urges those who drive to our bicycling event to avoid parking on residential streets in the immediate area of our weekly events. In consideration of residents, this request is the primary purpose for offering weekly parking tips in our news section.

Where can I find the route for the next ride?

Slow Roll Buffalo posts the upcoming Monday’s major streets and neighborhoods along each route in our news section, social media, and local media. We also conduct many forms of advance notification along each route, including daily outreach rides, road signs, flyers, calls, and emails to block clubs, businesses, community organizations,  and more.

How can I volunteer for Slow Roll Buffalo?

We’re volunteer-run!! Go here to fill out the SQUAD Application.

How can I get involved beyond just the ride?

There are countless ways to contribute to Slow Roll Buffalo—apply to join our volunteer squad where we need a lot of help off-ride and behind the scenes, donate to help keep our rides free or email us to collaborate with your block club, business, or community organization.

Join our SQUAD. Make a Donation.

How can I start my own Slow Roll?

Slow Roll is trademarked by the ride’s founders in Detroit – Slow Rolls in Buffalo, Cleveland, and Chicago were founded with their invitation. Slow Roll Buffalo organizes many rides outside of Buffalo, New York, and all proposals or inquiries are welcome by email.