Support London Cycle Link to Keep FCSR Free

London Cycle Link, a member-driven organization in London, Ontario, is seeking donations to support its operations and maintain the free nature of the Forest City Slow Roll (FCSR). The organization advocates for the development of a safe, healthy and bike-friendly city through campaigns for improved roads and bike lanes, cycling safety promotion, and the organization of community events.

The Forest City Slow Roll is a community bicycle ride designed to be inclusive of all ages and skill levels. The concept for the event originated in Detroit, Michigan, and was introduced to the Forest City in 2023 after organizers were inspired by Sarnia’s BIG Slow Roll.

2026 Event Details

The 2026 Forest City Slow Roll is scheduled to take place on Saturday, June 6, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. The event is organized as part of the City of London’s Bike Month activities and will proceed regardless of weather conditions.

The ride will begin and end at the Dundas Place Event Block, which is the flex-street section of Dundas Street located between Ridout and Talbot, north of Canada Life Place. During the event, this block will be closed to motor vehicle through-traffic.

Event activities begin at 3:00 p.m. With the opening of trike vendors and food trucks. Organizers will be available for participant check-in starting at 3:00 p.m. Participants are required to check in to receive a rider wristband and a raffle ticket. Pre-ride raffles are available for those who arrive early.

Following the ride, vendors and organizers will remain at the Dundas Place Event Block for an additional 1.5 hours to provide food, music, and networking opportunities for community members. This period includes the opportunity to win post-ride raffle prizes.

Route and Safety Specifications

The FCSR route covers approximately 9 kilometres. To ensure accessibility for various types of bicycles, including cruisers, recumbents, and e-bikes carrying cargo, the ride maintains a pace of 12 km/hr.

The pace of the ride is set by ride marshals and an escort from the London Police Service. Given the distance and speed, the duration of the ride is estimated to be approximately one hour.

Registration is mandatory for all participants, including children and babies. This requirement exists because the London Police Service requires accurate participant numbers in advance and the organization must collect signed waivers.

Organizational Background

London Cycle Link operates with a mission to help Londoners ride more by fostering a cycling culture, building confidence and skills, and advocating for safe paths and streets. The organization’s values are centered on community, sustainability, empowerment, equity, and fun.

The organization receives support from several entities, including:

• The City of London, via their Community Grants Program
• The Ontario Trillium Foundation
• The Community Services Recovery Fund through the London Community Foundation

Past iterations of the event have seen significant participation; in 2023, 275 people participated using bikes, tandems, and trikes. The event has also been supported by sponsors such as the City of London, The Biking Lawyer, and Lerners Lawyers, as well as partner event Forest City CC.

Donations to London Cycle Link also support associated initiatives, including Ride to Thrive and the Squeaky Wheel Bike Co-op.