Erick Cedeño, known as the Bicycle Nomad, is excited to participate in the STP Ambassadors program. His mission is to share his unique adventures while preparing for the Kaiser Permanente Seattle to Portland, presented by Alaska Airlines. With a passion for biking that transcends simple recreation, Cedeño views bicycles as essential instruments for exploring history.
Outside of his bikepacking excursions, Cedeño focuses on the remarkable story of the 25th Infantry Regiment Bicycle Corps, a legendary unit of Black soldiers who undertook one of the most challenging bikepacking journeys in U.S. history. “I aim to restore the dignity denied to them during their lives,” he states. “I want to honor them as unsung heroes in our historical narrative.”
The 25th Infantry, also known as the Buffalo Soldiers, embarked on a military expedition in 1897, during a time when the military was racially segregated. This historic unit consisted of 20 Black soldiers who rode heavy, single-speed Spalding bicycles, carrying up to 59 pounds of gear. Over 41 days, they pedaled 1,900 miles through unpaved terrains—forests, deserts, mountains, and rivers—braving harsh weather conditions.
The aim of this military mission was to assess the feasibility of bicycles as a mode of troop transportation before the advent of automobiles. Cedeño has retraced this remarkable path, following the historical route from Missoula, Montana to St. Louis, Missouri, aligning his journey with the 125th anniversary of the original expedition in 2022.
While bicycle historians recognize the significance of the Buffalo Soldiers’ journey, the narratives of the individual soldiers have largely been overlooked. Cedeño, being a Black man himself, feels a strong responsibility to connect their names with the available images from the historical expedition. “We know their names, but we couldn’t match their names and faces. That’s my current goal,” he explains, having already identified eight of the 20 soldiers.
The descendants of these heroic figures deserve to know more about their ancestors’ legacy, Cedeño believes. “These men are someone’s grandparents, someone’s great-grandparents. The world should know just how extraordinary they were,” he shared in a conversation with the New York Times.
Cascade is thrilled to welcome Cedeño to the STP Ambassadors program, which aims to celebrate the diversity within the cycling community and emphasize inclusivity in the Kaiser Permanente Seattle to Portland Bicycle Classic. Cedeño, who has an extensive biking background, has never participated in STP but is looking forward to completing the iconic 206-mile ride over July 15-16. He shares his training tips via social media, ensuring everyone can join in the excitement of cycling.
Cedeño is also slated to present the story of the Buffalo Soldiers during his time in Seattle, seeking opportunities for engagement with local colleges and organizations. He meticulously recreated the historic route using archival maps and faced varied weather challenges, all while trying to spiritually connect with the experiences of the Buffalo Soldiers. By unraveling their forgotten legacy, he aims to bring their story back to life and inspire future generations.
Erick Cedeño: The Bicycle Nomad and His Historic Journey
A Passion for Adventurous Cycling
Erick Cedeño, known as the Bicycle Nomad, embodies the spirit of adventure. With his extensive cycling experience, he has embarked on numerous bike tours across the United States, leaving an indelible mark on the cycling community. He is especially passionate about using bicycles not just for travel, but as vessels to explore and commemorate history.
Connecting with the Buffalo Soldiers
One of Cedeño’s most significant endeavors is retracing the journey of the 25th Infantry Regiment Bicycle Corps, famously known as the Buffalo Soldiers. In 1897, this remarkable group of 20 Black soldiers undertook a monumental 1,900-mile trek through some of the most challenging terrains in America, making it a crucial chapter in U.S. military and cycling history.
Preserving Historical Legacy
Cedeño is dedicated to bringing light to the often-overlooked stories of these soldiers. By aiming to match photographs with the names of the individuals in the 25th Infantry Regiment, he seeks to honor their legacy and ensure their contributions are recognized. “These men deserve dignity and acknowledgment,” Cedeño remarks.
Recreating the Historic Expedition
In 2022, Cedeño celebrated the 125th anniversary of the Buffalo Soldiers’ expedition by cycling the original route from Missoula, Montana, to St. Louis, Missouri. Through harsh weather conditions and physical challenges, he aimed to connect with the experiences of the soldiers, thereby enriching his understanding of their remarkable journey.
Promoting Diversity in Cycling
Cedeño has recently become a part of an ambassador program focused on celebrating diversity in cycling. This initiative aims to promote inclusivity within the biking community, ensuring that every individual feels welcome. Cedeño believes cycling should be open to all, regardless of background or experience.
Engaging the Community
Alongside his upcoming participation in the Kaiser Permanente Seattle to Portland Bicycle Classic, Cedeño plans to engage the public through presentations on the Buffalo Soldiers. He hopes to inspire younger generations by showcasing how history intertwines with his cycling adventures. By sharing knowledge and experiences, he aims to bridge the gap between the past and present.
Future Aspirations and Training
As he prepares for the Seattle to Portland ride, Cedeño is excited about the prospect of completing the 206-mile journey over two days. He intends to share his training journey, tips, and techniques with his followers on social media. By promoting healthy living and fitness, he aims to inspire others to embrace cycling as a lifestyle.
Conclusion: A Journey Through Time
Erick Cedeño’s adventures highlight the profound connection between cycling and history. Through his efforts, he not only celebrates the legacies of those who paved the way but also fosters a sense of community among cyclists of all backgrounds. His story is a reminder of the power of adventure in uncovering and preserving the past.
