Education at BikePGH would not be possible without our network of dedicated educators who teach classes, assist at events, work with schools and communities, and give private lessons. We created the Educator Spotlight Series to highlight these individuals and the incredible work they do to promote and teach cycling in the community.

Learn about Neil’s leadership and experience in education

What is your name and preferred pronouns?

Neil Walker, he/him

Do you represent a club or organization? Tell us about it!

I currently work with The League of American Bicyclists, BikePGH, Major Taylor Pittsburgh, Ruach Bicycle Club, and Bike ECS (Environmental Charter School) among others.

What kind of bike education do you specialize in? Do you focus on a certain population or community?

I am a Master League Certified Instructor Coach and I specialize in certifying Instructors and teaching bicycle education to all people who ride bicycles. I have spent most of my time working with youth, women, and in BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) communities.

How long have you been a bike educator and how did you get involved with bike education?

I’ve been a bicycle educator for over 20 years and primarily got involved so that I could work for Propel ATL ( formerly Atlanta Bike Coalition). I also wanted to assist with a youth mentoring program in Atlanta known as, The BRAG Dream Team (Bike Ride Across Georgia.)

Do you give private lessons – how should students contact you?

I am available for private lessons and can be reached via email: cyclesandchange@gmail.com, the website is being revised since I’ve moved from Atlanta and now reside in the greater Pittsburgh metropolitan area.

What is one piece of advice you give new bike riders?

I would suggest that all new riders take a Smart Cycling Class. (The BikePGH version of this is called Confident City Cycling– ed.)

What advice would you give aspiring bike educators?

I would advise them to volunteer to assist at a Confident City Cycling Class to see what the instructors teach and demonstrate about bicycling.

What has been your favorite experience in bike education?

My favorite experience is traveling to different cities and seeing the different types of bicycle infrastructure being implemented.

Where is your favorite place to ride in Pittsburgh?

I don’t have a favorite place to ride, I ride everywhere, but I did enjoy the 25-mile route offered in the 30th anniversary PedalPGH event!

Do you have a favorite bike currently or from the past? Why is it your favorite?

I seem to have an affinity for Italian bikes and my Pinarello Dogma 2 is my favorite bike. It was the first bike that I rode that really held and felt like it accelerated in the corners while I was descending, it really allowed me to feel more confident coming off of climbs.

What’s your favorite riding snack?

Fig Bars and peanut butter and jelly sandwiches.

Anything else you’d like our community to know about you?

I received the 2016 Gail and Jim Spann Educator of the Year Award from The League of American Byclists, and in the same year, I also received the Community Service Award from the National Brotherhood of Cyclists, which is now know as the Major Taylor Association.

Editor’s Note:

Neil is far too modest about his achievements in bike education. Neil never misses an opportunity to educate and mentor other riders and educators regardless of their age or background. He is a force of inspiration to others which can be experienced when working with him or attending his classes. Neil also deserves great credit for his work to diversify the ranks of bike educators by training LCIs nationwide and in BIPOC communities in particular.

Would you like to be featured or know another educator who should be? Let us know by emailing education@bikepgh.org. If you’re looking for more information on classes and lessons, visit our Education page.