FAQs

Why are we riding? This is first and foremost a protest against dependence on oil, and a way to raise awareness of the vulnerability of cyclists, skaters, and pedestrians. It’s also a joyful event that celebrates body positivity and community!

Is this the only naked bike ride in Portland, Oregon? The annual summer PDXWNBR (aka “Portland World Naked Bike Ride” and “PDX World Naked Bike Ride”) has traditionally been “the big one,” but Portland riders have also come together for other naked bike rides that highlight and support a wide range of causes. We gladly affirm everyone’s right to protest by riding naked! For example, take a look at these other groups: “World Naked Bike Ride Portland” and “Naked Hearts PDX“.

When and where does PDXWNBR happen?  The 2026 PDX World Naked Bike Ride start date and launch location has not been announced yet. Usually we gather at 6:30pm and roll out at 8:30pm.

Do I have to be completely naked to join? Nope! The dress code is officially “as bare as you dare” a.k.a clothing optional. Some folks go fully nude, others rock body paint, superhero capes, glitter, swimsuits, or just a helmet and socks. The goal is to feel comfortable and confident in whatever level of dress (or undress) feels right for you. All bodies and all shapes are welcomed and celebrated!

Does the ride happen rain or shine? It sure does!

What bike should I ride? Any bike that works is the right bike. Fat tires can be helpful for comfort and avoiding flats, but really, whatever you’ve got will do the trick. Make sure it’s in good working order. Per Oregon law, your bike must have:

  • A white front headlight
  • A red rear reflector or red rear light Set lights to a steady mode (not flashing) during group riding.

What should I definitely bring? A spare tube, a pump, and tools if your bike doesn’t have quick-release wheels. Also, a bike lock is a good idea, in case you want to socialize with your friends away from your bike after the ride is over. Wearing a helmet and bringing water is recommended!

Is there anything else I need to do to prep? A lot of people decorate their bikes with battery-powered lights and sound. Creativity is appreciated! Please don’t use disposable glow sticks. Remember to plan for how you are going to carry your clothes while on the ride (Backpack? Panniers? Milk crate?). Protip: put something soft over your bike seat to protect your bum.

Will there be there bathrooms at the launch location? Yes, but the lines may be long, so prepare accordingly!

Will I get cold? It depends on the weather. Almost always it’s colder by the end of the ride, so plan ahead for layers on your trip home. Remember to check the forecast before heading out. Wearing shoes, warm socks, arm warmers (a.k.a. knee-high socks with the feet snipped off), and a helmet can help.

Can I take photos? Photography is discouraged. Many riders trust that their privacy will be respected, some even risk professional consequences if seen participating. Please do not take photos unless you’re a credentialed media partner with explicit permission. If someone asks you to put your camera away, honor the request. Do not take pictures of specific people without asking their consent first. To be clear: nudity is not an invitation. The PDXWNBR is a protest, and participants are not there to be objectified. Please treat everyone with respect. No touching, no lewd comments, no staring. Harassment of any kind will not be tolerated. This is a safe, supportive space for all bodies.

Will people take photos of me? Taking photographs and video of things that are plainly visible in public spaces is a constitutional right, so it’s possible. However, photography is discouraged (please see above, “Can I take photos?”).

Can I participate without a bike?  Yes! Skateboarders, unicyclists, rollerbladers, roller skaters, people on scooters, people with wheelchairs and other mobility devices, joggers, etc. are welcome!

How should I get to the launch location? Public transportation, carpooling, and/or riding your bike there are the best options. Don’t count on parking being available near the launch location.

What is the route and what is the end spot? The route and end spot are not made public. That’s part of the fun! Just show up, follow the ride leaders/the crowd, and enjoy the experience. There will be a whole crew of volunteers on the route with high-vis vests to keep the crowd going on the right direction. Keep in mind the route is never a loop.

What happens after riders reach the end? Please, keep riding past the end spot. If you don’t, there will be a massive bike traffic jam at that location. Some riders will choose to go straight home, and some will choose to go socialize somewhere else. Tips: lock up your bike if you leave it unattended, use the buddy system to get to your next stop, and use this or this map for finding safe bike routes.

What should I do if I have a mechanical, medical, or safety issue? Radical self-reliance is always a good rule of thumb, but for emergencies there will be some volunteer bike mechanics and medical professionals at the launch location and on the ride. Look for the high-vis vests.

How does the ride stay safe? Safety is a community responsibility. We have volunteers in high-vis vests throughout the ride to assist if needed. Everyone is responsible for themselves and for showing care to others. Please stay sober, alert, and respectful, and wear a helmet!

What about intersections and crossing busy streets? There will be volunteers (aka Corkers) in high-vis vests to help manage challenging parts of the route. The ride will go right through most intersections without stopping, but sometimes the Corkers may need to stop riders to let some vehicles cross. Remember that emergency vehicles ALWAYS need to be let through, so stop your bike and make room for them if necessary.

Can I bring my pet? While we love animals, we recommend leaving pets at home. The ride is often loud, crowded, and unpredictable, which can be overwhelming and unsafe for animals.

Can I bring a service animal? Yes, service animals are welcome. However, we advise handlers to consider whether an environment full of noise, motion, and large crowds is a good fit for their service animal’s well-being, and if it would affect their ability to perform tasks safely.

Will there be body painters at the launch location? A small free self-serve station will be available. However, with thousands of people attending, we highly recommend bringing your own supplies if you’d like to paint yourself or friends. Sometimes there are for-pay body painters at the launch location as well.

Will there be a Lost & Found? At the launch location, there will be a Lost & Found at the Info Booth. After the ride, email pdxwnbr@gmail.com to see if your lost item was turned in. Found items will be disposed of after 7 days.

I am coming to Portland from out of town for this! Any advice? Please travel here sustainably: carpools, electric vehicles, etc. Also, consider supporting your local naked bike ride, or start your own! Our message grows louder with every city that takes part.

I support this protest, but can’t participate on the ride. What should I do? Here are some suggestions for other ways you can take action!

Where else can I ride my bike in Portland? Check out other rides at Bike Summer!

IMPORTANT

Do not ride intoxicated. It puts yourself and others at risk, and could lead to an arrest.

Ride at your own risk and watch where you’re going.

Remember! Slow riders on the right, fast riders pass on the left. It will be a packed crowd, and no one wants a spill to the pavement.

STILL HAVE QUESTIONS?

Review this “Bikes and the Law” article from the City of Portland.

You can contact PDXWNBR via these channels:

  1. Facebook: PDX.WNBR
  2. Instagram: @pdxwnbr
  3. Email: pdxwnbr@gmail.com

And please remember to tag photos and posts with #pdxwnbr.