Black cyclists and inventors have shaped the history of cycling, breaking barriers and paving the way for future generations.

From world champion Major Taylor to modern-day advocates championing for everyone to have a place in cycling, Black riders have influenced cycling as a sport and a mode of transportation in powerful ways - from racing to infrastructure and advocacy.

This Black History Month, we’re highlighting eight influential Black figures who have revolutionized cycling, challenged racial barriers, and inspired change.

1. Katherine “Kittie” Knox

Kittie Knox, a pioneer in bicycle racing and advocacy, was the first African American accepted into the LAW (League of American Wheelmen).

Born in Cambridge, Massachusetts in 1874, her legacy of activism continues to inspire the cycling community.

1895 — Kittie refuses to renounce her LAW membership when challenged by the organization’s prohibition of Black individuals from participating in most US bicycle races

2. Marshall Walter "Major" Taylor

As one of the most prominent sprinters of all time, Major Taylor shattered nearly three dozen world records in various sports and cycling disciplines.

Despite the harsh discrimination he received while competing during the Jim Crow era, Taylor’s unparalleled achievements revolutionized cycling and challenged racial stereotypes. His legacy continues to promote equality in sports and inspire future generations of aspiring athletes.

1899 — Major Taylor becomes the first African American to win a world championship in cycling - winning the 1 mile sprint event at the world championships in Montreal

3. Isaac R. Johnson

Johnson revolutionized cycling with his groundbreaking invention of the innovative bicycle frame that could be folded or disassembled for easy storage.

It was a challenge to patent an invention in the 1800s as an African American, but Johnson overcame barriers to succeed and paved the way for the evolution of bicycle frames similar to the version we ride today.

1899 — Isaac Johnson files for the patent in 1899, becoming the first African American to invent and patent a bicycle frame

4. Jerry M. Certain

Today’s cyclists can thank Jerry M. Certain for his invention of the parcel carrier for bicycles. Evolving into the modern-day panniers, his contribution drastically changed the way cyclists commute.

On behalf of our beloved PikeRide+ ebikes, we thank you Jerry!

1899 — Jerry M. Certain patents the parcel carrier for bicycles on December 26, 1899

5. Garrett Morgan

Next time you are stopped at a traffic light, thank Garrett Morgan for keeping you safe. As the inventor of what is known today as the modern stoplight, Morgan played a critical role in the world of transportation when he created the three-position traffic signal including a warning light.

Most notably credited for his invention of the gas mask, Garrett Morgan has made prominent contributions to the safety of society beyond the world of transportation.

1923 — Garret Morgan invents the three-position traffic signal in 1923

6. Marylou Jackson, Velma Jackson, Constance White, Leolya Nelson, and Ethyl Miller

Have you ever considered cycling 250 miles from New York City to Washington D.C.? In 1928, these five women did just that... in three days!

Embarking on a brave adventure that challenged women to take the same journey for years to come, these inspirational cyclists followed their passion for the great outdoors to bond over something they all enjoyed.

1928 — Marylou Jackson, Velma Jackson, Constance White, Leolya Nelson, and Ethyl Miller make headlines after embarking on a 250 mile bike ride from NYC to Washington D.C.

7. Nelson Vails

Growing up in Harlem, New York City during the civil rights movement, Nelson Vails followed his passion for cycling to reach great heights.

After earning the status of national and Pan-American champion, Vails continued to inspire millions by then becoming the first African American to win an Olympic medal in cycling.

1984 — Nelson Vails wins silver in the 1984 Summer Olympic sprint, becoming US cycling’s first Black Olympic medalist

8. Ayesha McGowan

McGowan began her cycling journey as a commuter student in Boston, later reaching great heights in professional racing by becoming the first African American woman to be a professional cyclist in modern-day history.

She continues to inspire as a professional racing cyclist and activist, spreading her love for cycling and advocating for a place for all in the sport.

2021 — Ayesha McGowan joins LIV Cycling’s WorldTour team as a satellite rider, becoming the U.S.’s first professional Black female cyclist

Black cyclists have played a crucial role in shaping the history of the sport, breaking barriers, and paving the way for all to feel welcome in cycling.

At PikeRide, we believe in making cycling accessible to everyone, providing a convenient and affordable way to explore and travel Colorado Springs and Manitou Springs on two wheels. Whether you're riding to honor these trailblazers or simply looking for a new way to get around, our nonprofit ebike share makes it easy to experience the joy of cycling.

Learn more about what we do and get the app today to start riding!