Retired cyclist pays it forward by donating bike

Cross country cyclist, Larry Ring, got his wheels back, Sunday. “It’s just overwhelming. I cannot believe the number of people that have responded,” said Ring.

Ring’s $5,000, titanium bike was stolen a week ago at a Santa Cruz diner. This came after he made a nearly 10 month journey from New Jersey to the Central Coast.

Ring’s ride will continue thanks to Kevin Alexander, a retired cyclist, who heard his story. “I know what a rotten feeling it is when somebody steals your bicycle. I happen to have an extra one that I used to race for many years, but I’m not quite in the shape to ride it anymore. I’d love to donate it to Larry,” said Alexander.

Alexander said cycling has always been his passion, but recent back and brain surgery forced him to give up the sport. Suddently, he was left with a bike that needed a new home. “I’m still a little emotional. I’m not going to lie. It’s hard to let go,” said Alexander.

Alexander built the bike by hand. He said he raced it across the state of California for over 30 years. He hopes Ring will be able to take it even farther.

“I’m going to head on down to the bike store and switch out the pedals and put a new front tire on and do a little ride,” said Ring.