Wow Look at this magnificent bronze bike. This isn’t just any bicycle. This is the Cyclemates Sculpture. It stands as a tribute to an incredible group of young people. For over two decades between 1969 and 1993 they embarked on extraordinary cycling adventures.
The Cyclemates were junior high students from Mercer Island. Their teacher Fran Call led them on long-distance bike trips. These weren’t leisurely rides. They cycled across continents. Imagine averaging 85 miles a day. No support vehicles. Just teenagers camping along the way.
These weren’t pampered kids. They earned and managed their own money. They carried their own gear. They faced challenges most adults would shy away from. They proved their resilience. They learned valuable life lessons along the way. Lessons about teamwork perseverance and self-reliance. Their teacher Fran Call had unwavering confidence in them.
This bronze sculpture is a replica of Fran’s bike. It is a symbol of their incredible journeys. It’s a testament to the power of youth and the impact of a dedicated teacher. The Cyclemates’ legacy is one of adventure determination and community pride. This sculpture celebrates all of that.
The Cyclemates Bike committee including Laurie Lyford Duane Eng Jane Meyer Brahm Fran Call and artist Robbi DeVries spearheaded this project. They raised over $40000 in just six months to create and install this beautiful piece. The sculpture sits on a granite base. It’s a gift to the city a lasting tribute to the spirit of the Cyclemates. It’s more than just a bike. It’s a story of courage grit and unforgettable experiences.