#RideForWade

Wade Franck died yesterday from injuries caused by a driver in a crash on Sunday.

Tragic things happen all the time, it is true, but when a tragedy occurs to a cyclist, and one who was a brother in your profession, it hits close to home. I didn't know Wade Franck personally. However; his death yesterday has touched myself and many others for several reasons. I won't elaborate on any of that here, but for the story on what happened to Wade, see this link, which details the crash that occurred Sunday morning and more.

I wanted to post this here for those of you who might want to honor a fellow mechanic and cyclist who died while riding his bicycle, by riding your bicycle, today at around 5:30pm-6:00pm. There are organized rides in the Des Moines and Ames areas starting at local bicycle shops. But that shouldn't stop you from riding alone, or forming your own ride to #RideForWade today. To honor Wade, and to remember that we as cyclists should be clamoring for better laws and for the laws we already have, to be used to protect us, and discourage others who are disregarding the law and rights of cyclists everywhere.

Following is a post made by Wade's employer, Kyle's Bikes, on Facebook yesterday afternoon:

"It is with deep sadness that we learned that Wade passed away this afternoon.

In the wake of Sunday's tragedy, it has been overwhelming, yet not surprising, to see how many people Wade has touched. That's simply who Wade was. Keep sharing your stories.

It's an emotional time for us, and we are certain for you too. 

There will be a fund set up for a memorial and we will update when there is information about how you can help. And we will organize a memorial ride in his honor."