Riverside’s own Pete Staylor is preparing to hit the road again for the 21st time, participating in the Arthritis Foundation’s California Coast Classic Bike Tour. At 70 years young, Pete’s enthusiasm for cycling is as strong as ever, fueled by a deep commitment to raising funds and awareness for arthritis research.
Pete’s journey with the California Coast Classic began in 2002 after a series of Synvisc injections by Dr. Greg Heinen allowed him to stay active despite severe knee issues. Trading basketball for cycling, Pete stumbled upon a flier for the Arthritis Foundation’s Ride of a Lifetime. With a donated bike and three months of rigorous training at a local gym, he met the fundraising minimum to join the ride.
“I wasn’t sure if I’d do it again,” Pete recalls, “but a new friend encouraged me, even covering my fundraising minimum for the second year. That support kept me going.”
In 2014, Pete faced another hurdle when his knees became completely bone-on-bone. He underwent simultaneous knee replacements and was back on his bike within three months. In 2018, after struggling with knee swelling and frustration, Pete discovered the game-changing world of e-bikes. A Haibike road bike purchased in La Jolla allowed him to continue his passion with renewed vigor.
His dedication didn’t waver even after personal setbacks, including losing his father just before one of the rides. Despite a painful kidney stone episode that landed him in the ER, Pete rode 86 miles the next day.
This year, despite initially planning to skip the ride due to work commitments, Pete retired in May and immediately signed up. Training and fundraising at Vim + Vigor in Canyon Crest, he’s already raised nearly $5,000. His efforts caught the attention of Rob McMillan from ABC Channel 7, who recently featured Pete and the CCC ride director Shannon Marang-Cox in an inspiring segment.
The owner of Vim + Vigor has been particularly supportive, matching donations up to $5,000 and offering to host a fundraising spin class in August. Pete’s story has also been highlighted in Inland Empire Magazine, Costco Connection, Arthritis Today, Riverside Magazine, Press-Enterprise, and Forbes.com.
Pete’s goal remains clear: to recruit riders, raise funds, and inspire people to get off the couch and onto a bike. He’s especially keen on encouraging the use of e-bikes for those with physical limitations, ensuring everyone can experience the joy of riding. As he prepares for another ride down the coast, Pete exemplifies the spirit of perseverance and community, showing that age is just a number when it comes to making a difference.
