PictureUSO rider Ie'u Tuiavii modelling the USO cycling kits at the 2012 New Zealand USO Bike Ride Launch at Te Rauparaha Arena in Porirua.
  WHY CYCLING?

USO Bike Ride since 2011 has spent time in Samoa, Hawaii and around New Zealand. Through talking to many elders-parents and grandparents we have discovered that cycling is not a new activity in these settings.  "Back in the Day" cycling was a popular activity. It was a main form of transport and getting around the islands. The same cannot be said for modern times.  Today, wherever Polynesian people live, there are small numbers of Polynesian people cycling yet high levels of poor health.  USO is one "Cog" in addressing the quality of life issues so many Polynesian people face as we age.


  THE BENEFITS OF CYCLING:  Whatever the condition be it cancer, diabetes, heart disease, obesity or gout, cycling is a great form of exercise to prevent and support the management of these conditions. 
  • Commutacating: Cycling as transport.  You can cycle to and from work-save money on petrol 
  • Family -cycle with family and friends on the week ends or the evenings
  • Sport- Ride with social groups and make new friends.  Race with local cycle clubs, take part in many Fun rides around the country.
  • In the islands bicycles are used for access to and from Plantations, the markets and to cart goods
  • Health wise, it is less stressful on your joints and especially useful for larger people getting back into exercise  
  • Modern day commuter bikes are affordable, strong, durable and last for many years

  • Commutacating to and from work or school is your exercise.  No need to join a gym or go to exercise in the evenings which means more family time
  • WIth USO we have many stories of share how to overcome the health challenges as well as the joys of riding a bicycle as Polynesian people.
  • A solid foundation in cycling will open up opportunities to try Mountainbiking, Triathlons, Duathlons, Multisport events, Track cycling.
CHALLENGES OF CYCLING
  • Safety-Roads are dangerous
  • Cycling skills
  • Cost
  • Wearing Lycra

USO advocate for better improved signage and infrastructure for all road users.  We run safe and supportive beginner cycling sessions with an aim to increase commuter cycling numbers.  Through learning how to cycle, participants become better users of road vehicles.  Our supporters and sponsors are also behind our kaupapa of improving the health and wellbeing of Polynesian people by bike! 

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