about changing gears

Changing Gears creates off-the-beaten path experiences based in and around Goderich, Ontario. 

Owned and led by Vicky Rao, Changing Gears creates expansive yet relaxed guided experiences for our community, so they can joyfully explore local landscapes, destinations, and food by bike. 

Our goal is to contribute to a healthy, active local ecosystem that appreciates and protects our environment, supports sustainable growth, and shapes bike culture in the region. 

We ride on the land with deep respect for the natural world, the traditional territory and original people of this area at the time of contact. 

MEET THE FOUNDER

vicky rao

The first time I rode a bike, it was directly into Jeffrey Beaton’s bush because I didn’t know how to stop. My passion for adventure and trying new things was part of who I Am from the beginning.

My vision for Changing Gears is to help share my passion for bike culture beyond urban centres. The G2G trail in particular is an opportunity to “get lost” on 132 km of worry-free, car-free travel, making you feel like you’re in another country without leaving Ontario’s backyard.

I can’t wait to share the trail with you, talking and sharing stories, while you experience joyful adventure at an unhurried pace.

I did figure out how to stop, eventually, though I never stopped riding my bike (except for a short period of teenage-hood when I got my driver’s license). Even at five years old, I knew there was something special about being on two wheels. 

My bike has been my sole source of transportation since 2013, when the thought of spending money on an e-test and the guilt of privilege made me consider another way. Now I can’t imagine another way of getting around; I’m more active and feel more alive than any other time in my life.

When you’re on a bike, you feel more alert, more alive, and you can see and absorb things using all your senses when travelling between places.

Changing Gears Adventures acknowledges that we learn, work, ride and do business within the traditional territory of Indigenous People and show respect to the original people of this area at the time of contact.

These include the Anishinaabe, Haudenosaunee, Odawa, Mississauga, Anishinabewaki, Wendat, Neutral peoples, and transitioning tribes.

We recognize the First Peoples’ continued stewardship of the land and water, and that this territory was subject to the Dish with One Spoon wampum, under which multiple nations agreed to care for the land and resources by the Great Lakes in peace.

We acknowledge and recognize the Upper Canada Treaties signed in regards to this land, which include Treaty #29 and Treaty #45 1/2, and our roles as treaty people, committed to moving forward in the spirit of reconciliation, gratitude, and respect with all First Nation, Métis and Inuit people.

Guiding Values

  • Life is better on two wheels.

    We believe riding a bike can change your life.

    Health benefits aside, life on two wheels brings joy to the everyday, slows your pace just enough to see things differently, and lessens your environmental impact.

  • No one rides alone.

    Changing Gears creates experiences that are inclusive, relaxed and joyful.

    We build a community of travel companions through shared experience, diverse perspectives, and laughter to create connection.

  • High gear is overrated.

    We intentionally prioritize an unhurried pace.

    On our tours, we stop (a lot) to smell the roses, talk to the trees and scan the skies. Our bike delivery service gives you back your time to do the same. Slow ride, take it easy.

  • Keep the wheels turning.

    Forward motion not only helps you stay upright on your bike, it’s what inspires us to live and serve our community in an ethically, socially and environmentally responsible manner.

    We care about continuously developing a progressive, intersectional approach to living and riding.

Our Commitment to A Better World

United Nations Sustainable Development Goals

Changing Gears is deeply committed to the vision of the 17 interlinked global goals established by the United Nations General Assembly, designed to be a blueprint to achieve a better and more sustainable future for all. Changing Gears feels particularly aligned with the following goals and we work actively to pursue them.

  • #3: Good Health and Well-being

  • #5: Gender Equality

  • #11: Sustainable Cities and Communities

  • #12: Responsible Consumption and Production

  • #13: Climate Action

  • #15: Life On Land

  • #16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions

 PARTNERS & FRIENDS

My travels along the G2G Rail Trail over the past decade have allowed me to explore, meet, and collaborate with a variety of bike-friendly businesses, destinations, and must-see spots along the trail.

Check out my curated list of the best accommodations, places to eat and drink, and things to see along the way. You won’t be disappointed – and tell them Vicky sent you!

PRESS & AWARDS

Changing Gears is fortunate to have received the support of local media and business support organizations on our journey.

In 2022, Changing Gears received a Best Bicycle Friendly Business Award for the RT04 region (Huron County, Perth County, Waterloo Region and Wellington County).

ready to ride?