Cycle For Survival
In 2019, after surviving several century rides with Major Taylor, Sebaj walked into work one day and offered me one of his old bike frames. I said yes immediately. Over nearly two years—and a lot of money—we slowly rebuilt it. That bike carried countless accomplishments and even more memories.
I’m in a completely different place in life now, and I attribute that change to cycling. After Sebaj passed, following a short battle with colon cancer, the roads felt different when I rode that bike—like something was missing, yet I wasn’t alone. And if Sebaj were still here, I know he’d say, “Focus on the next bike and stay on the road.”
Despite the violation of someone sneaking into my building’s garage—masked, with bolt cutters, and a plan specifically targeting the only Cipollini in storage—I’m grateful. Grateful that I’m in a place in life where it can be replaced (ALWAYS get renter’s insurance), grateful that I have a solid collection to keep me on the road, and grateful for the people who showed up for me in that moment. Cycling has reminded me how far I’ve come, and that’s something I’ll never take for granted. With everything going on in my life, in this country, and in the world, as long as I can mount and ride a bike, the problems that come my way feel manageable. It’s something I try to pay forward whenever I can.
That’s why, with the help of some good people, I signed up for Cycle for Survival—a movement that funds critical research for rare and difficult-to-treat cancers, giving patients and families hope where it’s needed most. I’m riding in honor of those we’ve lost, those still fighting, and those whose lives are forever changed by this disease. I’m also proud to represent Bikes Will Save The World Foundation, because I believe bikes do more than move us forward—they heal, connect, empower, and remind us that even in hard moments, we still have the ability to keep going.
If you’re able, I hope you’ll support the ride, the mission, and the belief that bikes—and community—can truly save lives.
https://secure2.convio.net/mskcc/site/TR?pg=personal&fr_id=4372&px=5137025
Our Mission and Values
Bikes Will Save The World Foundation exists to empower individuals and communities through the healing, connecting, and transformative power of cycling.
We believe that a simple bike ride can spark profound change, improving mental health, fostering equity, protecting the planet, and spreading joy.
Through access, education, and advocacy, we make cycling attainable for everyone. Our initiatives include inclusive group rides, wellness workshops, community partnerships, and storytelling that celebrates riders of all backgrounds.
Our work is guided by four core values:
- Wellness: Promoting mental, emotional, and physical health through movement and mindfulness.
- Equity: Breaking down barriers so everyone, regardless of race, gender, income, or ability, can ride freely.
- Sustainability: Championing cycling as a climate-friendly solution that connects people and protects our planet.
- Joy: Embracing the pure, unfiltered happiness that comes from two wheels and open roads.
Together, we are pedaling toward a brighter, healthier, and more connected world.
Our Vision
We envision a world where every person, regardless of race, gender, background, or ability, has the freedom, opportunity, and support to use a bicycle as a path to well-being, connection, and empowerment.
Our vision is a future where:
- Communities thrive because people move together, not apart.
- Bicycles bridge social gaps, fostering understanding and unity.
- Every child, adult, and elder has access to safe, welcoming spaces to ride, learn, and grow.
In this future, bikes aren’t just transportation, they are vehicles of transformation.
Our Causes
We focus on causes that bring bikes, and their benefits, to those who need them most:
- Mental Health Through Movement: Promoting emotional resilience, confidence, and stress relief through group rides and mindfulness on wheels.
- Youth Empowerment: Providing bikes, safety gear, and training to young riders who might not otherwise have access.
- Cycling Equity & Access: Supporting underrepresented communities through bike donations, free repair clinics, and education programs.
- Sustainability in Motion: Encouraging eco-conscious commuting and advocating for safer cycling infrastructure to reduce carbon footprints.
- Community Connection: Building inclusive spaces where riders of all backgrounds can share the road, stories, and support.
Every ride has a ripple effect and every cause brings us closer to saving the world, one bike at a time.
Our Programs
We turn passion into action through innovative and inclusive programs designed to get people riding and thriving:
- Community Ride Series: Weekly and monthly group rides designed for all skill levels—combining fitness, friendship, and fun.
- Bikes & Balance Workshops: A blend of cycling, mindfulness, and self-care—helping participants reconnect with their bodies and minds.
- Pedal Forward Program: Donating refurbished bikes and safety gear to children, families, and essential workers who rely on bikes for transportation.
- CycleSmart Education: Safety and maintenance classes empowering riders to feel confident and independent on the road.
Advocacy & Awareness Campaigns: Partnering with local leaders and organizations to promote bike-friendly policies, mental health awareness, and environmental action
#bikeswillsavetheworld #transportationalternative #bikejc #Bikenyc #bikelife #RideEveryday #brickcitybikecollective #mentalhealth
Media Links
Interview w/ Bicycling.com (2022)
Interview w/ Bicycling.com (2022)
Interview w/ Bicycling.com (2022)
Interview w/ Emily Schiffer about why cycling is good for mental health, our current fundraiser, and our must-haves when riding
Interview W/ VeloNews.com (2021)
Interview w/ Bicycling.com (2022)
Interview w/ Bicycling.com (2022)
BWSTW founder Daniel Morteh talked about how cycling during the quarantine saved his life and created a deep bond with his friends and community.
Black Men Speak Podcast (2021)
Interview w/ D.I.O Talk podcast (2020)
Interview w/ D.I.O Talk podcast (2020)
Keith Dent sits down with Daniel Morteh to discuss his passion for cycling and using that passion for raising money for Charities.
Interview w/ D.I.O Talk podcast (2020)
Interview w/ D.I.O Talk podcast (2020)
Interview w/ D.I.O Talk podcast (2020)
DIOTALK Podcast is about talking to new awesome people and hearing their life stories on what has inspired them throughout their life journey. This episode features Daniel Morteh and why he thinks Bikes Will Save The World"