why we bother with goals

In 2017 we started a new program that we un-ambitiously called our Goal Program. Even if you aren't the kind of person to whom goals appeal, we hope our program might appeal to you. Especially now, two crushing years into a pandemic, it helps to have something to set one’s sights upon.

Part of the reason we here at Yawp! remain resistant to cycling goals is that most everyday riders don't have them. Riders who enjoy racing seriously have them, and because we are not fast (and never will be) we are outside of the cycling subculture most congruent with goal setting. Know what, though? We've set goals anyway, and they've led to unbelievably positive outcomes. We have made friends, ridden in incredible places, and surprised ourselves. That's why we suggest that you think about setting one yourself.

Yawp! offers an annual goal completion program. All you have to do to sign up. We accept submissions between January 1st and February 15th every year. You may find goal-setting to be exhausting and obnoxious. If you're thinking this Program is not for you, remember these two things:

1. Why make a bunch of spur-of-the-moment bad decisions when you could make your bad decisions in advance?

2. If you meet your goal, you’ll receive a modest prize.

The folks who’ve set goals in the past have really blown us away. They aimed high, and if they did not hit their targets it wasn't for lack of effort. Thanks to all who participated, and congratulations to those of you who met your goals. 

If you aren't sure what kind of goal you want to set, here are a few examples:

-Commute to work by bike one day per week, every week.

-Ride 7,000 miles in a year.

-Thin out the stable and only ride one bike in 2018.

-Ride 1,000 miles on dirt.

-Bikepack for one weekend.

-Bikepack the Colorado Trail.

-Finish a 50-mile event.

-Ride a hundo every month.

-Clean everything at Dakota Ridge.

-Race the Iditarod. 

GUIDELINES

You must submit your goal between January 1st and February 28th. You must complete your goal by December 31st, 2023.

Challenge yourself. If commuting to work will not challenge you, set a different goal.

Buying a new bike, getting your touring rig situated, or finally dialing in your brakes all good goals, but they don't count toward this program. Your goal must have to do with riding.

Set as many goals as you like; only one prize per participant.

The enrollment period for 2023 is now closed.