There's a new biker gang taking over in Collegedale.
If the sound of revving engines or the sight of leather bothers you, don't worry. That's not what this group is about. Instead of motorcycles, these "bikers" ride recumbent trikes.
The trend started with Garden Plaza resident Jerry Holdridge who was an avid cyclist in his younger years. But at age 82, cycling wasn't safe anymore. After taking several years off, Holdridge's daughter, Pam Lewis, noticed the recumbent trikes and thought they might work for her dad.
"It opened up a whole new world for him," she said.
And he isn't the only one.
The trend caught on and now there are about a dozen "trikers" who ride together around town. The group meets every Thursday at 8:30 a.m. behind Garden Plaza. Anyone from the community is welcome to join.
"Everyone has fun," said Lewis. "You sit down and you can't help but smile. Anybody with back, arm or shoulder issues can do it. It's like riding in your recliner."
Recumbent triking is perfect for people like James Keith. He's had several heart attacks and is able to ride the bike with ease even though he can't do other types of exercise. The trikes - and the community of trikers - provide each other an opportunity to exercise and socialize.
"The [best part] is the relaxation, the fun, the camaraderie," said Holdridge. "Still, it's very safe at our age."
The group rides mostly on the Collegedale Greenway but also rides around the Garden Plaza community and at Harrison Bay. They are also planning to ride in this year's Christmas parade.