Website chainlinks area cyclists

Facebook and Myspace have nothing on the new online community for area bicyclists.

The new website www.thechainlink.org, started by Active Trans member Leah Neaderthal, connects bicyclists throughout the region to rides, events, clinics groups, resources and other bicyclists and potential riding buddies.

“I felt like if you were a messenger or a racer, there were groups for you; but for the vast majority of people…there’s really nothing for people to allow them to connect with one another,” said Leah, a Nashville native who has been riding in Chicago for five years. “Even though I was super into [cycling], I felt like it was hard to meet other riders.”

Now, cyclists using the website can meet anyone in the area. It’s also any easy way for clubs and organizations to reach a lot of cyclists. Leah launched the site in July 2008, and more than 800 people from around the region have joined.

For now, Leah expects the site to grow. “I want to reach as many cyclists as possible,” she said, adding that she hopes to launch the site in other cities.

“For a lot of people, cycling is a solo activity,” she said. “This allows them to connect with other people.”