For over 50 years, the Charles River Wheelers have been a pivotal force in the New England cycling community, creating a haven for enthusiasts through camaraderie and a collective passion for two wheels.

Founded in 1966 by Ralph Galen and Fred Chafee as the Charles River Wheelmen, the club started with a simple yet powerful vision: to bring local riders together through a shared love of cycling. From leisurely rides along the Charles River to exhilarating centuries, the Wheelmen provided an inclusive space where cyclists of all levels could come together.

As the decades passed, the club evolved into the largest recreational cycling organization in the region, hosting over 100 annual rides by the 1990s. More than just cycling, the Wheelmen fostered enduring friendships through post-ride pizza parties, holiday galas, and spontaneous social gatherings.

This sense of community led to a culture of giving back. The Wheelmen began awarding yearly grants to organizations that shared their mission of empowering diverse groups of cyclists. In the 2000s, a name change to the more inclusive "Wheelers" reinforced the club's commitment to being a welcoming community for all.

Entering its sixth decade, the Charles River Wheelers remains a cultural beacon for cyclists, emphasizing camaraderie, belonging, and the collective passion that propels every pedal stroke. Whether you're a casual rider seeking community or a competitive cyclist exploring new routes, the Wheelers offer an unparalleled cycling experience, centered not on individual achievements but on the shared joy of riding together

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