World Naked Bike Ride spin-off to roll through Portland, protest fossil fuel companies

An unofficial World Naked Bike Ride will ride through Portland streets on Saturday to protest Zenith Energy and other companies that operate major fossil fuel terminals on the Willamette River.

The original naked bike ride, run by a nonprofit and directed by an army of volunteers, was canceled in June after organizers said they would take a one-year hiatus. It’s unclear who has organized the replacement ride.

The annual world naked bike ride brings thousands of people together to protest against fossil fuel dependency and support cyclist safety and body positivity. It has grown significantly in recent years.

The first naked bike ride was held in 2004. Last year, as many as 10,000 cyclists joined the event.

This weekend’s rogue naked ride will start at Colonel Summers Park at 4:15 p.m. Just like with the original naked bike ride, clothing is optional and participants can wear (or not) whatever makes them comfortable. Bikers will ride from the Hawthorne Bridge to the Steel Bridge.

The event will include a public parade and a protest as well as an after-party with local bands, DJs and dancing.