Tips for creating a successful bicycle event.

I get asked a lot about setting up events (big and small). Here are a few. There are no restrictions on creating an event - just do it.

• Brainstorm your idea with some friends on the site. They might see issues or have extra ideas that might help
• Book it and they will come. Check the calendar of events that are on to make sure it doesn’t clash.
• Create the event in the Events page. Put in as much information as you can. Participants want to know where they are starting and ending and where they will be going, what they need to bring, how long it might take, what time will they be back, will there be coffee, is there a cost. The clearer you are from the outset the easier it is to plan and attract riders.
• Add and image to the event (Square works best).
• Consider informing authorities like SAPOL or Councils. You might learn something about that day that might force you to change route.
• Invite your friends. Friending other members on the site that are like you helps when the time comes to spread the word, you might even get some volunteers to help. Share the event on Facebook, Twitter and by tapping into your email contacts book.
• Get a conversation happening in the event to built up interest.
• Share it again over the days and weeks before the event.
• Tell the site administrator to get it promoted. Think about where else you can promote it like local papers, newsletters, The Bicycle Institute of SA, BicycleSA and other email newsletters
• Don’t be disheartened at low level interest. In the week before the event things pick up. If in the end there are only a few (or nil) participants it’s OK. You were going to go for a ride anyway. (This is obviously not so good for charity rides).

Further reading: 9 Tips for Running a Successful Bike Event (Urban Velo)