One of Portland’s largest and most well-known protests, the World Naked Bike Ride, returns to the streets this year, after organizers canceled last year’s event.
The Portland ride, one of many naked bike rides held across the world, typically draws thousands of cyclists every year, some sporting costumes and some with no clothes at all.
FILE - Thousands of people cross the Burnside Bridge in Portland, Ore., in 2017 for the World Naked Bike Ride.
Bradley W. Parks / OPB
It started in the early 2000s as a form of protest against car culture, both its dependency on oil and unsafe conditions for cyclists navigating urban streets. In Oregon, full nudity is protected free speech for public demonstrations.
“It’s promoting self sufficiency, but sort of the hook, if you will, is the naked part of the bike ride,” said Ellen Miles, volunteer coordinator for Portland’s World Naked Bike Ride.
The event has grown tremendously in size over the years, regularly drawing upwards of 10,000 riders to participate.
Chris McCraw estimates he’s participated in 12 naked bike rides, often as an organizer. He said a large portion of the attendees are there to protest, but there are many just looking for a good time.
“Of the people that show up to the ride, at least in Portland, 75% are there for a party,” McCraw said. “It serves both purposes.”
Still, many people come for the protest aspect, he said. Some have slogans painted on their bodies, like “Less Gass, More Ass” or “Don’t Kill Me,” a reference to cyclist deaths caused by automobiles.
For those participating, Miles and McCraw recommend people tune up their bikes before riding, to avoid breaking down, and try to make their seats comfortable. McCraw also said riders do not have to be completely naked, and everyone is encouraged to be “as bare as you dare.”
FILE -- Riders begin Portland's edition of the 2017 World Naked Bike Ride.
Bradley W. Parks / OPB
“It’s fun and people aren’t there to upset you or wiggle stuff at your kids,” McCraw said. “Either celebrate with it, or stay inside if you don’t like it.”
Organizers say riders should start to gather at Grant Park in Northeast Portland around 6:30 p.m. on Saturday, and the launch will take place around 8:30 p.m.
